Top 5 causes of container rain in shipping containers
Container rain can be detrimental to your cargo as it can result in caking, damaged packaging, mould and corrosion.
Did you know you can not insure against this type of damage?
There are a multiple reasons why your container can turn into a greenhouse, with moisture condensing inside to form this highly damaging container rain.
Here are the top 5 that put your cargo at risk:
1.) Conditions during loading
In Australia, the loading of containers often happens close to the ocean. This can result in high levels of moisture within containers. If a container is loaded in the rain, the water on the contents will evaporate when the container gets hot and condense again when it cools.
2.) Packing and packaging materials
The packing and packaging materials contribute to the moisture content inside the container. For example, a typical 120cmx100cm newly manufactured pallet can contain as much as 11ltr-15ltr of water! This increases the risk of problems with condensation.
3.) Temperature changes
During the ships voyage, the temperature inside a container can change significantly, both because of the changing climate during the voyage and the temperature differences between day and night. In Australia, we all know too well the extreme day/night temperature differences during winter time and the condensation this causes. Evaporation will occur during warm phases, with condensation occurring as the container cools down.
4.) Ventilation
There is no ventilation in a shipping container and this lack of obstructs the flow of air, which can cause moisture build up. The more air that circulates in a container, the less the contrast between the temperature inside and out, which reduces the risk of condensation.
5.) Treatment during shipping
How often is the container being moved? How often will it be opened and closed? At what time of day? In what weather conditions? These factors can affect the level of moisture in the container and the level of condensation that will result.
You cannot control the weather. But you can eliminate the threat of container rain!
Cordstrap Moisture Control offers a wide range of moisture control products that have the highest moisture absorbency in the market of up to 350% of its weight.
You can learn all about our Moisture Control line here, or give us a call at 1300 478 727.
