What items can be harmed by humidity in shipping containers?
There a few, including:
Clothing
Fabric furniture
Wood materials
Cardboard and paper materials
Organic materials such as plants or food
So what are the risks? What is causing the problem? What are the solutions to keeping the humidity levels under control?
Why is There Humidity in Shipping Containers
Despite all their value and durability, shipping containers are vulnerable to humidity and condensation. Their metal surfaces make them especially temperature-conductive. Weather, light level, and ambient heat sources all affect the amount of moisture in the air in the container.
If a shipping container’s internal air becomes too warm compared to the coolness of the side walls, it causes condensation to collect on the outer surfaces and ceiling.
What is “Container Rain?” This term is used to describe the collected condensation. You may see water actually dripping from the ceiling or walls of a container.
Shipping condensation can damage your cargo through a variety of means including:
Warping various materials like plastic, metal, and wood
Corroding metals
Producing mold and mildew, especially if you have organic products or materials in your container
Causing the deterioration of packaging, especially cardboard
Tips for Shipping Container Moisture Control
Use Desiccants
A desiccant is a product that can absorb water from the air, which reduces the dew point of the air itself. A great example of a small-scale desiccant is a pack of calcium chloride crystals usually found in the pockets of new suits or fancy clothes. These packets absorb ambient moisture and protect the fabric.
The same principle can be applied to your shipping containers. Desiccants come in bags, which can absorb humidity by being hung from the ceiling or placed along the walls. You can also find desiccant blankets that are hung over the top of goods.
These are especially good solutions since they both remove moisture from the air and physically protect products from any droplets that do form. Meanwhile, desiccant pads are placed below goods and stop leakage from making a bigger mess.
Just keep in mind that desiccants need to be replaced and/or dried out from time to time.
Install a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is an electrical appliance that reduces humidity levels in the air. It works by drawing in moist air, passing it over a refrigerated coil, and then releasing dry air back into the container. Dehumidifiers are available in different sizes and capacities. They can be powered by electricity or batteries and are a great option for long-term storage of moisture-sensitive items.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is critical in reducing humidity levels inside shipping containers. Good ventilation allows for the movement of fresh air and helps to prevent the buildup of moisture. You can ensure proper ventilation by installing vents or using a fan to circulate air inside the container. It is also important to ensure that the container is not over-packed, as this can inhibit proper airflow.
Seal the Container
Sealing your shipping container is an effective way to prevent moisture from entering. Make sure that the container doors are tightly closed and that there are no gaps or holes where moisture can seep in. You can also use weather stripping or sealing tape to seal any gaps. Sealing the container will not only reduce humidity levels but also protect your items from other external factors such as dust and pests.
Use a Moisture Barrier
A moisture barrier is a material that prevents moisture from entering the container. It can be in the form of a plastic sheet or a specialized barrier material. Moisture barriers are especially useful if you are shipping items that are highly sensitive to moisture. They can be placed on the floor of the container to block any moisture that may seep in from the ground.
