Shipping Container Survey is a critical process in global commerce, ensuring that containers used to transport goods across vast distances remain secure, efficient, and compliant with international standards. To maintain their integrity, ensure safety, and comply with international standards, shipping container surveys are regularly conducted.
This guide will explore what a shipping container survey entails and why it is so important for the logistics industry.
What is a Shipping Container Survey?
A shipping container survey is a detailed inspection service. It is carried out by a professional surveyor. This process assesses the shipping container condition.
It ensures containers meet regulatory standards and can safely hold cargo. Such a survey prevents damage to goods or the environment during transit.
You can learn more about this thorough shipping container inspection process in a depot.
What to Expect During a Container Survey
1. Inspect the Shipping Container Exterior
The surveyor begins by thoroughly examining the outside of the container. This includes checking for dents, holes, corrosion, or other physical damage that might compromise the container’s structural integrity or ability to protect its contents.
Special attention is paid to the roof, corner castings, and side panels, as these areas often bear the brunt of wear and tear during transport and storage.
Surface rust is noted, and deep corrosion or pitting is flagged for further evaluation or repair. The condition of the paint and any signs of previous repairs or welding are also documented.
2. Inspect the Shipping Container Interior
Once inside the container, the surveyor checks for any signs of water ingress such as stains, dampness, or mold, especially on the ceiling and floor corners.
The interior walls and ceiling are examined for cracks, rust, or deformation that could weaken the structure or lead to leaks.
The surveyor also looks for evidence of pests or rodents, including droppings or chewed materials. Any odors that could indicate contamination from chemicals or hazardous substances are reported, especially if the container is being repurposed for storage or habitation.
3. Check the Shipping Container Doors and Seals
The container doors are critical for both security and environmental sealing.
The surveyor opens and closes both doors to ensure they swing freely and align properly when shut. Hinges, locking rods, and cam keepers are tested for ease of movement and any signs of bending or rust.
The rubber door gaskets are carefully inspected for cracks, brittleness, or detachment that could lead to moisture intrusion.
Proper sealing is vital to keeping out rain, dust, and pests, so any damage here is taken seriously.
4. Evaluate the Shipping Container Flooring
The floor of a shipping container typically consists of marine-grade plywood or steel.
The surveyor checks for signs of damage such as delamination, rot, warping, oil stains, or insect infestation.
Soft spots in the wood are probed to assess structural integrity. In steel-floored containers, the surveyor looks for corrosion or metal fatigue.
Any sign of spillage from previous cargo that may have affected the floor’s strength or cleanliness is recorded, especially if the container will be used for sensitive storage.
5. Verify the Documentation of the Shipping Container
Lastly, the surveyor ensures the container has valid documentation, including the CSC (Convention for Safe Containers) safety approval plate, which certifies the container’s compliance with international safety standards.
The plate contains essential information such as the date of manufacture, container ID number, and stacking and racking test values. The surveyor also checks for records of previous inspections, maintenance logs, and any modifications that have been made.
Accurate documentation is essential, especially for containers being used in international shipping or being repurposed for specialized use.
Why Are Shipping Container Surveys Important?
1. Shipping Container Safety
Safety is the top priority in any transport or storage operation. Container surveys help identify structural damage, corrosion, or weaknesses that could pose a risk during loading, transport, or stacking.
A compromised container may collapse under pressure or fail to protect its contents from environmental exposure, potentially harming personnel, equipment, or cargo. Regular inspections ensure containers are fit for use and reduce the likelihood of accidents, injury, or cargo loss.
2. Shipping Container Compliance
Shipping containers used in international trade must meet specific standards set by organizations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC).
Surveys verify that the container complies with these regulatory requirements, which is especially important for customs clearance and port inspections.
Without proper certification or inspection records, containers may be denied entry at ports or cause delays and fines.
3. The Cost-efficiency of the Shipping Container
Routine surveys help detect minor issues before they escalate into major problems. For instance, addressing a small leak or patch of rust early can prevent extensive corrosion or water damage down the line.
By catching problems early, owners can plan for maintenance instead of facing expensive emergency repairs or needing to replace an entire container.
Shipping container maintenance guided by regular surveys saves time, money, and operational headaches.
4. Shipping Container Insurance
Many insurance providers require a valid survey report to process claims involving container damage or cargo loss.
Surveys serve as official documentation that the container was in good condition before use. In the event of a dispute or damage claim, a recent survey can validate the container’s state and support the policyholder’s case.
Without it, claims may be delayed or denied, leaving the owner or renter financially liable.
What is a Container Survey Report?
A container survey report is a document provided by the surveyor detailing the findings of the survey. It includes information on the condition of the container, any defects found, and recommendations for repairs or further inspections if needed.
Why is a Container Survey Report Important?
Inspecting containers is not just important, but sometimes required. You can’t lease or hire a container without an inspection. A container survey report helps avoid paying for pre-existing damages.
For example, if you need a reefer container for temperature-sensitive goods, a container surveyor checks if the machinery works and if it’s fit to carry food-grade items. Or, if you’re a clothing brand owner needing to transport designer items, the report will tell you if the container is suitable for dry cargo.
Types of Container Surveys
On-Hire Survey
An on-hire survey is carried out before a container is leased or rented out. The main goal is to document the container’s current condition, ensuring that both the owner and the lessee are on the same page regarding any existing damage.
This inspection includes checking the structure, doors, floor, seals, and any functional features. The surveyor records all findings in a detailed report, often with photos.
Why it matters: It prevents future disputes by providing a clear baseline of the container’s condition at the start of the lease. If damage occurs during the rental period, the on-hire survey helps determine whether it was pre-existing or caused by the lessee.
Off-Hire Survey
An off-hire survey is conducted at the end of the rental period when the container is returned to the owner or depot.
The surveyor compares the container’s current condition with the on-hire report. They specifically look for any new damages or deterioration that occurred while the container was in use.
Why it matters: This survey ensures accountability. If any damage is found that wasn’t present during the on-hire survey, the lessee may be held responsible for the necessary repairs or financial compensation. It’s a critical step for container owners to protect their assets.
Condition Survey
A condition survey is more comprehensive and can be performed at any point in a container’s life cycle.
It thoroughly documents the container’s state, especially after it has been used for shipping, storage, or construction purposes. The surveyor evaluates whether the container is safe for continued use, needs repairs, or should be retired.
Why it matters: This type of survey is crucial for evaluating containers used in demanding conditions, such as international transport or modified usage (e.g., mobile offices). It helps container owners decide whether to repair, repurpose, or dispose of the unit.
Survey of Old/New Containers
This check involves two purposes:
For new containers, the survey ensures the unit meets ISO standards and quality benchmarks for international shipping and handling.
For used containers, the surveyor checks for significant wear and tear, rust, frame damage, or compromised doors and seals. They determine if the unit is still structurally sound and compliant for continued use.
Why it matters: New containers must be inspected to verify manufacturing standards before they are deployed, while older containers must be assessed to avoid unsafe use or non-compliance with international regulations.
ISO container inspection checklist
Container inspection checks if a container is good enough to carry or store cargo. An inspector looks it over to make sure it meets all ISO rules for transportation.
Checking cargo and containers at customs helps stop illegal items from entering the country. But other areas can also benefit from using bulk inspection systems.
An ISO container inspection checklist typically includes:
- Checking the overall structure for integrity.
- Ensuring the CSC (Container Safety Convention) plate is present and legible.
- Verifying the proper functioning of doors and locking mechanisms.
- Checking the floor for damages or contamination.
- Inspecting the interior for cleanliness, odor, and leaks.
- Ensuring all markings and placards are accurate and readable.
Read this blog If you want to learn more about the significance of a CSC Survey in Shipping Containers
Conclusion
Shipping container surveys play a pivotal role in maintaining the safety, efficiency, and compliance of global trade logistics. By understanding what these surveys entail, their importance, and the different types available, stakeholders can ensure their containers are fit for purpose, thereby safeguarding the goods they carry and the broader supply chain.
Regular inspections and accurate reporting not only prevent potential mishaps but also contribute to a more reliable and cost-effective transportation system.
Trust On-Site Storage Solutions for Your Container Needs
At On-Site Storage Solutions, we understand the critical importance of container quality and safety. We offer a wide range of shipping containers that meet rigorous standards, and our experts are here to assist with any survey needs.
Contact us at (888) 977-9085 to learn more about our shipping containers and how we can help you with your container project. Whether you need a container for shipping, storage, or a unique modification, we provide the best solutions tailored to your needs.
