Shipping Containers: Are You Avoiding These Risks?

Maritime transport accounts for more than 80% of the volume of world trade, making it a fundamental pillar of the global economy. Every day, thousands of containers travel international routes moving products of all kinds: food, technology, raw materials, machinery and industrial inputs. However, behind this apparent efficiency, there are multiple logistical risks that can seriously affect the integrity of the cargo and the profitability of operations.

One of the most critical points in this chain is the proper handling of sea containers. Structural cracks, improperly secured cargo, vulnerable security seals, and extreme weather conditions are just some of the threats that can trigger everything from considerable economic losses to the total interruption of a supply chain. Therefore, identifying, assessing and mitigating these risks is not an option, but a strategic necessity for exporters, importers, logistics operators and specialized insurers.

Main risks in the handling of maritime containers

1. Structural damage and wear and tear: Containers with cracks, deformations or weakened securing points can compromise the safety of cargo and personnel. Continued use without proper maintenance increases the risk of collapse and accidents.
   
2. Overweight and poorly distributed cargo: Overloading a container or unevenly distributing cargo can lead to overturning, damage to goods and accidents during transport. It is essential to respect weight limits and ensure proper stowage.
   
   
3. Contamination and improper fumigation: Fumigation of containers without proper safety measures can expose workers to toxic substances. In addition, cross-contamination between cargoes can affect the quality of transported products.
   
   
4. Tampered security seals: Tampering with or replacing security seals facilitates unauthorized access to container contents, increasing the risk of theft or introduction of illicit goods.
   
   
5. Extreme weather conditions: Elevated temperatures or excessive humidity inside the container can deteriorate sensitive products, such as perishable foods or pharmaceuticals.
   
   

JAH Insurance Brokers Analysis

Every journey involves exposure to multiple threats: from damage during loading and unloading operations, to malicious acts by third parties (AMIT), social unrest, natural disasters or theft during transport and on return to the yard. Even exceptional situations such as a major breakdown can compromise not only the cargo, but also the financial stability of an entire operation.

That is why at JAH Insurance Brokers we have designed a specialized coverage for containers that not only covers total losses, but also partial losses, which represents a real competitive advantage over traditional products. Our Full Cover policy guarantees comprehensive protection against common and critical eventualities, providing peace of mind at every stage of the journey.

Among its main benefits are:

• ✅ It also covers empty containers used as packaging, a common situation but often ignored by other policies.

• ✅ Extension of coverage while the container is in yards, protecting it until it is returned.

• ✅ Eliminates the payment of guarantees to the rental service provider, which reduces operating costs and improves the profitability of each shipment.

• ✅ Includes a container washing benefit, with a reimbursement of up to USD $500, especially useful after the transport of polluting or perishable goods.

In a context where the slightest logistical error can translate into thousands of dollars in losses or the loss of confidence of a key customer, having insurance such as ours is not just a financial decision: it is a strategic one.

Practical advice for exporters, carriers and importers:

1. Perform pre- and post-loading inspections: Check the physical condition of the container before and after each use.

2. Use suitable containers: Select the type of container that best suits the nature of the goods.

3. Implement quality controls: Establish procedures to ensure that the cargo is maintained in optimal conditions throughout the transport.

4. Adopt monitoring technologies: Integrate systems that allow real-time monitoring of the container's internal conditions.

5. Take out specialized insurance: Protect merchandise and investment through policies that cover the specific risks of maritime transport.
   
   

Proper handling of maritime containers is crucial to ensure the safety of cargo and the efficiency of logistics operations. At JAH Insurance Brokers, we are committed to offering comprehensive solutions that address these challenges, from implementing advanced technologies to providing specialized insurance.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you optimize your supply chain.