Cargo Frost Investigation: Temperature Fluctuations and Unplugged Drain Hole

During the on-site inspection, we discovered frost on the surface and inner packaging of certain cargo, suggesting that the cargo may have been exposed to temperature fluctuations or the entry of brume. According to the analysis of temperature records, there were no instances of high temperatures during the transportation process prior to handing over the container to the Consignee. However, after the container was handed over to the Consignee, from 0846hrs on July 21 to 2257hrs on July 22, 2023, a total of 39 hours elapsed with a maximum return air temperature of 0.6 degrees Celsius. Additionally, persistent occurrence failure codes indicated a possible power failure. Under these circumstances, high temperatures may have caused the cargo to frost.

During the inspection of the subject container, we identified an unplugged drain hole located at the front end left side of the container. If the non-return valve in the drain hole fails to function properly, it is possible for external hot air to enter the container through the valve, leading to or exacerbating the frost on the cargo.