As freight becomes an even more important way of linking people together, every aspect of the journey your cargo takes to its destination becomes vitally important.
One of, if not the most important part of your freight’s journey is the shipping container it is housed in. Whilst you ideally should buy a new shipping container for your journey, so long as your container is fit for purpose, your cargo should be safe within it.
A container that is no longer fit for us may not look outwardly damaged (although many are cracked, warped or bent), but could leave your cargo prone to water damage, corrosion, staining or damage caused by pests and insects.
Whilst some used containers can look like a bargain, a careful inspection can reveal the hidden costs of shipping freight in containers that are not fit for purpose.
Before you do so, make sure you can answer the following four questions:
Is There Any Soil Or Infestation?
Soil is a fertile breeding ground of insects, plants, algae, moss and other pests, which can be an early telltale sign of potential structural damage.
It can also be a sign that the container has had some form of water damage.
If there is soil and infestation on the inside, the container has been breached and is unlikely to protect any cargo contained within.
Is There Any Exterior Damage?
Warping, cracking or bending of the outside is typically a sign that the container has reached or is reaching the end of its life, and the potential for significant damage is high in the rough environments shipping containers face.
Does It Have A CSC Plate?
An International Convention For Safe Containers Approval Plate is a standard plate attached to all shipping containers approved for international transport. It must be valid and visible, usually attached to the outside of the left door.
Is there Any Interior Damage?
Interior damage is often harder to spot but is more significant and can cause greater damage to the cargo itself.
Water ingress, rust, debris, residue and stains are often telltale signs of potential structural collapse.