7 Actions to Reduce Container Damage Risks

Container damage is a frequent concern in the maritime logistics industry. During transportation, containers and their cargo are subject to a range of threats, including collisions, adverse weather conditions, improper handling, and other factors.

By understanding these causes, it is possible to ensure the safety and integrity of goods during transport and minimize business impacts. With this in mind, we have prepared this article to present 7 actions that can reduce the risks of container damage. Enjoy your reading!

What is Container Damage?

Container damage refers to any harm or issue that occurs to a container, preventing its normal use or compromising the integrity of the goods it is carrying.

With the rise of globalization, free trade areas with companies located abroad (FTAs), and complex supply chains, container damage remains a critical concern in the transportation and logistics sector.

Some common causes of container damage include collisions, adverse weather conditions, improper handling during loading or unloading, and mechanical failures — as we will see below.

These damages can affect the structure of the container and cause loss or damage to the goods being transported, potentially even compromising the safety of the crew and others involved in the transport and handling of the container.

What Types of Container Damage Exist?

There are several types of damage that can occur to containers, especially when they are used to transport specific goods via sea. Here are the main types:

Structural Damage

This type of damage affects the container’s structure, such as its walls, roof, floor, and doors. It can be caused by collisions, drops, or improper handling during transport.

Cargo Damage

This affects the goods inside the container, such as cracks, dents, leaks, etc. It may be caused by poor packing of the products, adverse weather conditions, or poor storage strategies for certain types of goods. This, of course, impacts both the cargo and the container during loading and unloading.

Lock Damage

The locks are an essential part of the container and can be damaged due to attempted break-ins or improper handling. They are also susceptible to minor damage caused by collisions and other issues mentioned.

Corrosion Damage

Corrosion can be caused by weather conditions, such as humidity and salinity — common issues in maritime transport — and can affect not only the container’s structure but also its lifespan.

Impact Damage

This type of damage is caused by collisions or drops of the container, often due to poor planning of loading, unloading, or even laytime management.

Electrical Damage

The container’s electrical systems, such as lighting and ventilation, can be damaged by short circuits or power supply issues.

What is the Verification Document for Container Damage?

The verification document for container damage is the Inspection Report. This document details the condition of the container before and after maritime transport.

It is typically filled out by a container inspector before loading and after unloading. It also includes information about any damage or issues identified.

The inspection report is crucial because it provides written documentation of the container’s condition and the goods being transported. It can be used as evidence in case of disputes over responsibility for identified damages, for instance.

Moreover, the inspection report helps ensure that the parties involved in the container transportation chain are aware of the condition of the item and the transported goods. This allows them to take the appropriate measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the goods.

How to Avoid Container Damage?

To avoid this type of problem, there are a few simple tips to follow. Check them out below:

1. Check the Container Condition Before Loading

Ensure the container is clean, dry, and free of damage before loading the goods. If there is any damage, request the proper documentation in the inspection report before loading.

2. Optimize Container Space Usage

Ensure that goods are evenly distributed in the container and well-secured to prevent shifting during transport.

3. Properly Load the Goods

Ensure the goods are loaded and secured correctly to avoid damage during transport.

4. Analyze Weather Conditions Before Transport

Check the weather forecast before transporting goods and take the necessary steps to protect them from adverse (and even expected) weather conditions.

5. Keep the Container Locks Secured

Make sure the container locks are closed and locked during transport to prevent break-ins or theft of goods.

6. Avoid Collisions

To avoid collisions, it is important to always maintain a safe distance between containers during transport on ships.

7. Check the Container Condition After Unloading

Inspect the container after unloading and document any damage or issues in the inspection report.

These tips are general, but to prevent container damage, it is always recommended to follow specific instructions and regulations from the maritime transport and logistics industry. By maintaining careful attention and following best practices in the field, the risks of damage can be significantly minimized.

As you can see, ensuring the safety of these items is crucial to guaranteeing the integrity of the goods and optimizing the logistics process of cargo transport. Therefore, make sure to keep a close eye on everything to ensure the protection of the goods and minimize negative impacts.

Now that container damage is on your radar, you can also learn how to ensure the security of high-value cargo transportation. Be sure to check out our full article on the subject!