Maritime transport has become the core of international trade. Cargo ships are responsible for the transportation of goods worth around 4 billion euros annually. This figure highlights the importance of preventing risks associated with maritime transport, such as the deterioration or loss of goods.
The deterioration of transported goods can occur for multiple reasons, both during loading and sea transport as well as before and after embarkation.
Before international maritime transport, goods go through several stages. First, they are packaged and stored at the factory. Then, they are transported in containers or pallets to a dock, where they must wait for the ship’s arrival. After the necessary handling, the goods are loaded and begin their journey to the destination. Once there, to be delivered to the importer, they undergo further handling and transportation.
Main Risks of International Maritime Transport
Traditionally, common risks in maritime transport were natural disasters, mechanical failures, and human errors. Nowadays, the enormous growth of international trade and new technologies have led to the emergence of new risks in this sector.
- Human errors account for between 75% and 90% of maritime accidents, although technology can help minimize these risks.
- In some maritime routes, there is a more complex threat to combat, piracy. However, the efforts of international naval forces have significantly reduced this risk, especially in the Indian Ocean.
- New technologies have contributed to the development of all sectors. On the flip side, the risk of a cyberattack has become one of the main threats to international maritime transport.
- Improper handling and packaging of goods in containers is another risk during maritime transport. The use of containers for transporting goods was a real revolution in the 1960s, considered the ultimate solution to prevent cargo damage. However, many incidents still occur annually in maritime containers.
The main incidents related to cargo transported in maritime containers are physical damage, damage due to temperature changes, loss, and theft of containers, in that order.
Common Damages to Goods
Physical damage is usually caused by improper stowage. Statistics indicate that these errors generally stem from haste and lack of time. To prevent these incidents, it is vital to have experienced professionals and an appropriate methodology.
Contamination of goods is another risk. Contaminants during transport can be diverse in nature, for example:
- Residues from broken packaging in other shipments.
- Dust clouds from nearby bulk cargoes.
- Water damage from rain or sea spray.
- Spills from other liquid cargoes.
- Condensation due to sudden temperature changes in poorly ventilated storage areas.
Therefore, it is essential that goods, especially food or pharmaceutical products, remain unaltered and free from contamination.
International maritime container transport is a safe system with great advantages for all types of goods:
- Large load capacity
- Speed in loading and unloading operations
- Suitable for long journeys in different modes of transport without breaking the load unit
- Possibility of vertical storage without risk of crushing the goods
- Protection of cargo from external factors
The only requirement is professionalism and rigor in packaging and loading. Only this way can physical damage and contamination be avoided.
