Amid container supply imbalance leading to shortages, container operators should avoid cutting corners when it comes to structural integrity, cleanliness and cargo-worthiness of those that are loaded, international freight transport insurer TT Club warned.
As explained, containers have numerous touchpoints in any given supply chain, becoming the responsibility for shorter or longer periods with a variety of stakeholders.
The ripple effects of various national lockdowns, interruptions in trade and less predictable peaks and troughs in cargo volumes has resulted in severe imbalances of container equipment,
…commented Mike Yarwood, TT’s Managing Director, Loss Prevention.
For those reliant upon the container, these challenging times provide an opportunity to reflect on the roles and responsibilities defined within the Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units (CTU Code), as well as the necessary safety properties of a container and its suitability to carry its intended cargo.
Compounding the challenge, national stay and work at home policies have resulted in unexpected surges in consumer demand particularly for e-commerce goods, translating to beyond peak demand for empty containers in the dominant manufacturing centres of Asia. These circumstances must not be allowed to lead to the widespread use of inferior container equipment or that which does not comply with industry standards,
…he noted.
While imbalances, delays and restricted availability will place additional stress on all those involved in the supply chain, the Club stressed the importance of maintaining rigor in operations.
The ultimate question – is your container fit for purpose? – must always be answered honestly and in full,
…the Club advised.
