Reefer cargo carriage involves transporting perishable or temperature-sensitive goods that require controlled temperature, humidity, and airflow to maintain quality during transit. Proper handling, monitoring, and documentation are essential to prevent losses and ensure cargo integrity. Steamship Mutual Risk Alert will highlight critical aspects and considerations for preventing losses associated with reefer cargo.
Types of Reefer Containers
Understanding the different types of reefer containers is crucial for selecting the appropriate unit for specific cargo needs:
- Standard Reefer Containers: Available in 20-foot and 40-foot sizes, these containers can maintain temperatures from -30°C to +30°C and are used for pharmaceuticals, frozen foods, and temperature-sensitive chemicals.
- High Cube Reefer Containers: Similar to standard reefers but with an extra foot in height, providing additional cargo space.
- Super Freezer Containers: Capable of maintaining ultra-low temperatures (as low as -70°C), suitable for high-value cargo like tuna or certain pharmaceuticals.
- Controlled Atmosphere (CA) Reefers: Regulate oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen levels in addition to temperature, extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables during long voyages.
- Modified Atmosphere (MA) Reefers: Use passive methods such as special packaging to alter the internal atmosphere, effective for certain perishables.
- Automatic Fresh Air Management (AFAM) Containers: Utilize sensors to dynamically adjust the fresh air exchange rate, offering greater precision in controlling the storage environment.
Common Causes of Claims
Reefer claims often arise due to temperature variations and can result from issues beyond the control of the ship’s crew. Common causes include:
- Cargo Issues: Inherent defects, improper stuffing, stowage above the maximum load line, obstructed airflow, and mismanagement during multi-modal transport.
- Container Issues: Inadequate pre-trip inspections, cleanliness, and operation of refrigeration units. Ensuring the interior is clean, dry, and free of odors is vital.
- Operational Issues: Incorrect temperature settings, poor monitoring, inadequate maintenance, lack of spare parts, and failure to maintain power supply to the container.
Recommendations
To minimize the risk of claims, the following practices are recommended:
- Documentation and Pre-Planning: Ensure all pertinent documentation is available and reviewed in advance, including cargo manifests and packing lists. Obtain formal confirmation from shippers on cargo carriage and care instructions.
- Operations: Verify loading locations as per the stowage plan and brief the vessel crew on instructions related to reefer loading and discharging, including safe access, visual examination, and record-keeping.
- Monitoring and Reporting: Conduct initial reading checks and regular monitoring. Properly record key events and report any discrepancies to relevant stakeholders. Engage expert advice promptly to resolve issues and contain losses.
Effective planning, monitoring, record-keeping, and timely reporting are key to avoiding potential claims associated with reefer cargo. By adhering to best practices and recommendations, stakeholders can ensure the integrity of perishable goods during transit.
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Source: Steamship Mutual
