Dealing the Challenges in Logistics Management - Moisture and Condensation
Logistics management is one of the crucial aspects which helps to streamline the movement of goods and products. Every year, millions of tons of goods are stored and transported to various regions across the globe.
Millions of tons of cargo, which costs some trillions, are being carried to its destination using various transportation modes. There are three major modes of transportation that are used by the exporters, and they are rail, road, and ocean transportation. During the transportation of cargo, it is expected to deliver the cargo safely to the destination. But, unfortunately, companies may face a lot of hurdles. One of the popular problems that is faced by the companies during ocean transportation is condensation.
Shipping Container Condensation
This kind of problem occurs when the containers packed with the cargo are being transported. Generally, when the temperature reduces, the walls of the containers become cooler below the dew point.
The air is no longer able to contain the moisture, so the vapors condense into liquid droplets. These water droplets will be collected on the walls and roof of the container. This condition is also popularly known as Container Rain or Container Sweat.
Once the water collects on the walls and roof of the container, slowly the water starts to drip on the cargo, which damages the cargo and interior of the container. The amount of condensation depends on certain factors like:
- Temperature
- Ventilation in the container
- The moisture content of the cargo
- Air space in the container
Condensation can cause various types of problems, and it includes:
- Deterioration of Cargo
- Corrosion of metal particles
- Formation of mildews and molds
- Caking of powdered material
These are some of the major problems of condensation of containers. So, it is very crucial to learn the importance and techniques to stop the condensation in the container.
Tips to Prevent Condensation in Shipping Containers
Commonly, all types of containers and cargo may hold some quality of moisture, and generally, air also holds small water droplets. In most cases, cargo like furniture, handicrafts, agriculture products, clothing and fabric, etc. most water and at certain cooling conditions, these items release water.
But there are certain factors, which would help to prevent condensation in the shipping containers. Let’s see some of the top tips.
1. Proper Insulation
Insulation is one of the best solutions to prevent condensation in the containers. Cladding the walls of the container’s interior will help to keep the temperature warmer than the dew point. This will help to prevent a huge temperature difference and avoid condensation.
There are many ways to insulate the interior walls of the container and some of the popular ways are bubble wrap the walls, incorporating aluminum barriers on the floor, etc.
It is true that insulation is the best way to prevent condensation, but sometimes, we might look for some other options for a better solution.
2. Installing Ventilators
Proper ventilation can prevent condensation significantly. Ventilators help to equalize the interior and exterior temperature by removing most air and allowing ambient air inside. Since the temperature of inside and outside air become nearly equal, then the condensation will be reduced.
There are many ways to install ventilation in a shipping container, but it is not always the perfect solution. If you are shipping goods to the areas where humidity is high, then ventilation can increase condensation.
3. Installing a Dehumidifiers
If the cargo will be stored in the container for a long time, then using dehumidifiers is the perfect solution for condensation problems. To use dehumidifiers, the shipping containers need access to a very strong power source for working
The collected water should be removed from the dehumidifier. You can also set up a hose system, which will pump the collected water from the dehumidifier.
4. Desiccants to Absorb Moisture
Using desiccants in the container is one of the best options to absorb water. Desiccants are substances, which can absorb ambient moisture from the air. Many freight forwarding companies use desiccants in the shipping containers to reduce the moisture content from the air.
There are many types of desiccants available in the market. You can use desiccant bags, desiccant blankets, pads, etc.
5. Use The Right Pallets
Many companies use wooden pallets to store goods and also ship goods from one location to another location. Usually, pallets manufacturing use the fresh woods to prepare pallets. The moisture content present in those pallets will increase the condensation in the container.
Also, storing the pallets in wet areas or in the cold conditions increases moisture content. So, always store in appropriate conditions, when they are not in use.
These are the top 5 tips which many international logistics companies use to reduce condensation in the shipping containers.
If you are also facing problems like container rain, also known as condensation, then we can help you. IAP Logistics is a popular logistics company in Jeddah, and we provide a wide range of logistics services. Our services include freight services, distribution service, and many more.
If you want to move your goods from one location to another safely without any problem, we can help you. We are also one of the best freight forwarders in Jeddah, and we can help you ship your cargo safely around the world. We also provide global shipment tracking services to ensure the safety and condition of the freight which is being shipped.
So, reach us for all kinds of logistics and freight services.