Tag: cargo damage

The World Shipping Council published its 2017 survey, concerning the number of containers lost at sea per year. The updated survey reveals that the average number of containers lost each year has dropped since 2014 by 48 percent.

The Association of Bulk Terminal Operators has called for a complete overhaul of the cargo sampling and liquefaction testing protocols for raw ores and less common cargoes, such as nickel ore, fine wet coal and bauxite, pointing out that the current methods for danger identification are inadequate, specially in ports where conditions are inclement.

The process of cold treatment is a more efficient way to exterminate fruit insects than fumigation, as it maintains a sufficient low temperature for a pre-determined period. UK P&I Club said that has recently seen an increase in refrigerated cargo claims for fresh fruit from S.America to the US, due to cold treatment failure and presents prevention solutions.

The UK P&I Club issued a loss prevention guide, containing a quick reference breaking down of types of incidents that occur to containerised cargo, listing the incidents, the cause of incidents, identifying any documentation needed, and identifying any loss preventative steps that can be taken.

Following the various claims of soybeans with excessive moisture content being loaded in Brazil and discharged in China, the Skuld P&I Club issued a circular, in order to provide an update on loading and storage conditions at Brazilian ports, especially in Santos and Paranagua, and also ports in Argentina.

UK P&I Club issued a report in order to advise on safe transportation of soya beans. According to the report, Brazil is expected to produce a record soya bean crop yield this year, which is reflected in the number of vessels currently queuing at Brazilian ports.

The Britannia P&I Club has reported a recent case in which a consignment of pressure boiler parts was physically damaged during moderately heavy weather whilst en route from Hong Kong to Houston.

Gard P&I Club and Consultant Scientists from Brookes Bell say that during this year, many claims relating to heat damage in soya bean cargoes have been reported and highlight the importance of inspections as important visible signs that fall under the phrase “apparent condition” can reveal at an early stage the problem.

Instances of cargoes of agricultural products being rejected due to the presence of GMO are on the increase. The West P&I Club has reproduced an article written by Dr. Tim Moss and Dr. Daniel Sheard of Brookes Bell “Contamination with GMO Cargo – What can be done?,” which discusses the science behind GMO crops, along with the ramifications of being found to have GMO contaminated cargo onboard and the practical measures that can be taken to prevent a cargo becoming contaminated.

The single most predominant factor associated with the failure of cargo lashings is the incorrect application of bulldog grips. Tony Watson, Risk Assessor at UK P&I Club has advised on the correct application of bulldog grips in order to minimise damage to cargo.