Safeguarding Your Cargo: A Game Plan for Loading in Crappy Containers
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When it comes to shipping containers, age can take its toll. Loading cargo into a worn-out container can spell disaster if proper precautions aren’t taken. In this article, we’ll explore the common risks associated with subpar containers and provide you with a game plan to protect your cargo from potential damage.
The Perils of Water Ingress
Water ingress caused by rusty and dented container roofs poses a significant threat to cargo during transit. To safeguard your goods, it’s crucial to be aware of the container’s condition and take preventive measures:
- Container Inspection: Before stuffing your cargo, thoroughly inspect the container for visible signs of damage, such as dents, rust, poor door gaskets, or improper welding. Document any existing issues for future reference.
- Communication with the Shipping Line: Engage in open communication with the shipping line, emphasizing the importance of providing seaworthy containers. Highlight any concerns about potential cargo damage due to container condition.
- Container Maintenance: Shipping lines bear the responsibility of regularly servicing and maintaining their containers. Ensure that the shipping line has exercised its due diligence to keep the containers in a suitable condition for cargo transportation.
Proving Container Quality for Cargo Claims
To hold the shipping line accountable for any cargo damage caused by a subpar container, exporters must be prepared to prove that the container’s deficiencies were not visible at the time of stuffing. Consider the following strategies:
- Documentation and Records: Maintain detailed records of the container inspection, highlighting the container’s condition before loading. Include photographs and written descriptions as evidence.
- Conduct pre-loading surveys and run a light test.
- Communication Trail: Keep a record of all communication with the shipping line regarding container quality concerns. This includes emails, booking confirmation, or any other forms of correspondence that demonstrate your proactive approach to cargo protection.
Loading cargo in a poor-quality container can lead to disastrous consequences during transit. By following a strategic game plan, which includes reject container immediately with clearly visible defects or collect loading evidence proving that at the time of loading defects were not visible for the exporter.
Don’t take chances with your valuable shipments—safeguard them from the perils of crappy containers.
Recoupex is a hub of transport lawyers – experts in cargo claims. We assess your case quickly. We have successfully recovered claims from Maersk, Sealand, Hapag-Lloyd, Mediterranean Shipping Company – MSC, CMA CGM, and other carriers.
