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How Time on Water Affects Cargo in a Shipping Container

Written by Admin | Aug 27, 2025 9:15:00 AM

When shipping goods across oceans, the journey is often longer than most people realize. Weeks at sea, changing climates, and varying weather conditions all play a role in how cargo behaves inside a container. Even the sturdiest packaging can face challenges if it isn’t designed with “time on water” in mind.

At Global Liner Agencies, we specialize in moving cargo to some of the most remote and hard-to-reach destinations. This means we’ve seen firsthand how extended voyages can affect shipments and more importantly, how the right packing strategies can protect them.

How Time on Water Impacts Cargo

  1. Temperature Fluctuations
    Containers can be exposed to extreme shifts in temperature, especially when traveling between climates (for example, from Europe to Africa or Asia). These fluctuations can cause condensation inside containers, which is often referred to as “container rain.” Left unchecked, this moisture can damage packaging, corrode metals, or spoil sensitive goods.

  2. Humidity and Moisture Build-up
    Long sea voyages amplify humidity challenges. Moisture inside a container can warp cardboard, soften wooden pallets, and create mold risks for agricultural or textile cargo.

  3. Movement at Sea
    Even when well-secured, goods inside a container face constant vibrations and rolling motions. Over weeks, poorly packed cargo can shift, resulting in breakages, dents, or crushed goods.

  4. Extended Transit Durations
    The longer the voyage, the longer goods are sealed away from immediate quality checks. This can be particularly challenging for temperature-sensitive, fragile, or perishable cargo.

How to Pack Correctly to Mitigate Issues

While time on water is inevitable, the risks can be managed with proper preparation:

  1. Use the Right Packaging Materials

    • Choose water-resistant cartons or plastic wraps for sensitive goods.

    • Use vapor-barrier liners and desiccant bags to control moisture.

    • For fragile cargo, reinforce packaging with extra cushioning like bubble wrap, foam, or airbags.

  2. Secure the Load

    • Palletize goods where possible for stability.

    • Strap or shrink-wrap pallets tightly to avoid shifting.

    • Use dunnage (wood, airbags, or blocking/bracing) to fill empty container spaces.

  3. Consider Temperature Control

    • For perishables or sensitive goods, use reefer containers.

    • If using a standard container, insulate with thermal blankets or liners to minimize temperature swings.

  4. Plan for Moisture Management

    • Add desiccants to absorb excess humidity.

    • Ensure packaging is sealed and avoid using absorbent materials like untreated cardboard where possible.

    • Ventilated containers may help for certain cargo types like coffee, cocoa, or nuts.

  5. Distribute Weight Evenly

    • Heavy items should be placed at the bottom and centered.

    • Spread weight evenly across the floor to reduce stress on container walls and floors.

 

The Bottom Line

Extended time on water is part of global shipping but with the right packing approach, cargo can arrive in excellent condition, no matter the distance. At Global Liner Agencies, we advise our clients not only on routing and scheduling, but also on best practices for preparing goods for the journey.

Shipping to remote and challenging destinations requires expertise and that starts before the container even leaves the dock.



Ready to ensure your cargo arrives safe, secure, and on time? Request a Quote today.