Knowledge Center
Signs That Cargo Is Being Affected by Moisture Inside a Container
Signs on packaging and cargo
Common signs that cargo may have been affected by moisture include: soft, warped, or water-stained cartons; a musty odor when opening the container; water marks or condensation traces on the container walls or roof; oxidation or rust on metal products; caking in powder-form products; and warping or discoloration on wood or leather surfaces.
What to do if you notice these signs
When these signs appear, inspect and document the cargo condition as soon as possible, and review the moisture-control approach used for that shipment. This information is also useful for CARGENTRA to help assess and recommend a better-suited solution for future shipments.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I only notice a musty odor but no clear damage yet, should I be concerned?
A musty odor can be an early sign of excess moisture, even without clear damage yet. It's worth treating as a signal to review your moisture-control approach for future shipments.