Page 226 - DMGT546_INTERNATIONAL_TRADE_PROCEDURE_AND_DOCUMENTATION

Unit 10: Containerization and Leasing Practices

How old is a used container? Notes
They are sold by shipping lines after 10 years of age.

What colour will it be?
Variety of colours – The type of paint is usually chlorinated rubber or vinyl, both
manufactured to resist sea water, sun and abrasion.

Are they affected by condensation?
A container exposed to sunlight and cold can cause condensation, especially if the interior
or if the contents of the interior are damp.
Condensation can normally be easily prevented by the use of disposable dehumidifiers.

Shipping Container Dimensions and Capacity

Length

9.8125 feet (2.991m) as 10 feet
19.875 feet (6.058m) as 20 feet
29.9375 feet (9.125m) as 30 feet;

a40 feet (12.192m)
Width

8 feet (2.438m)

Height

8.5 feet (2.591m) and
9.5 feet (2.896m)

Handling of Containers

1. Stuffing of Cargo in Container: Stuffing of cargo in the container is concerned with packing
of the cargo. The exporter or the shipper should formulate a proper stowage plan prior to
packing a container. This would help the shipper to:
(a) Achieve optimal utilisation of container capacity
(b) Simplify and increase the speed of packing and unpacking.
(c) Plan for necessary cargo securing aids well in advance.
2. Arrangement of Container: The exporter should approach the cargo agent for hiring of the
container. The cargo can be sent on FCL/LCL basis. FCL stands for Full Container Load’
and LCL stands for Less than Container Load. The exporter can arrange for’ packing of the
cargo in the container in his factory if so desired. The cargo’s agent will arrange for the
packing and thereafter the containers are shifted to the container depot. Alternatively, the
exporter can bring the cargo to the container depot and the cargo is stuffed in the container
after custom clearance. The government has established number of inland container depots
to provide the facility of export through containers by sea routes. The containers after

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