In this era of globalization, industries and businesses have reached global markets. National boundaries are no more a big concern, and governments are making every effort to facilitate smooth and effective trade across countries. There has never been a better time to increase the vendor base and connect with suppliers from different destinations. Businesses and industries have acquired international clients leading to a broader range of customers.
While in every aspect you win, suppliers also face a considerable concern about the safety of the consignment during loading and unloading. There are many factors to consider to ensure the shipment is complete, up to mark, and in accordance with the specified guidelines. That’s where Loading and Unloading supervision/inspection comes into play. The loading and unloading responsibility falls upon the inspection team. This inspection must ensure the consignment arrives on time and in good shape and form.
Container Loading Supervision/Inspection
A container Loading Inspection takes place at the shipper’s warehouse. Proper supervision ensures each consignment is appropriately handled when loaded in containers. Technical verification is performed of the quality and safety standards of the products and if they adhere to the specified guidelines and standards. The quality and quantity of the consignment are cross-checked, and the inspector reviews the final packaging of the containers right before the shipment is loaded. The containers are then sealed to avoid product substitution, seal numbers are recorded, and the consignment is departed.
Container Loading Calculation
There are several factors to investigate while loading consignments. Inspectors need to pay special attention to ensure containers are loaded as a single unit and not multiple large cargoes to mitigate the risks of displacement or missing the consignment.
Suppliers/ Importers should have proper clarity on the factors like-
- Size of the container
- Packaging
- Type of container to be used for storing the consignment.
- The utilization of the container’s space
- Measurements of the containers (length, width, height, weight)
- Barrels/ Vessels measurements (Diameter, size, weight, quantity)
All containers belonging to an individual importer must be kept together, and the pallet size and space measurements must be noted and shared with both parties.
Container Loading Inspection Process
From the moment the consignment is out of the warehouse for loading to the shipment’s final departure, the inspection team follows a proper process. The procedure looks a lot like this-
- Weather conditions are recorded.
- The arrival time of the consignment outside the warehouse is recorded.
- The quantity and condition of containers/vessels/barrels are confirmed.
- The vehicle transportation number is noted.
- Proper inspection and evaluation of containers to mitigate any risks of damage, quality issues, or mishandling, and smell test is done.
- Random investigation of a few sample consignments to ensure they comply with the set standards and guidelines.
- Supervise thoroughly while the shipment is loaded to avoid any event of mishandling and damage.
- Seal the containers, and seal numbers are noted.
- The container loading Inspection checklist is thoroughly reviewed.
Advantages of Container Loading Supervision/Inspection
Container Inspection is indispensable to ensure the products are correctly loaded regardless of the type of transportation. Let us look at some of the advantages of Container Loading Inspection-
- Quantity Verification
- Quality Examination and Verification
- Traceability of the Products – packing list or invoice, production codes, etc.
- The operating conditions of the consignment are verified.
- Cleanliness Inspection is done.
- Temperature / Weather Condition is monitored.
- Proper documentation of any damages is done.
- Photographs of containers and the loading process are received.
- Inspection of products is done to ensure they comply with the regulations.
Container Unloading Supervision/Inspection
Once the consignment is loaded and reaches the destination, the importer must unload the containers/vessels/barrels effectively and without mishandling. This is where unloading supervision/ inspection comes into play. Unloading the containers is as important as loading them. Any breakdowns or damages to the consignment during unloading can cause significant cost issues. The deadlines can get extended, thus affecting the overall trade business.
To ensure your containers reach you in the best shape and quality, container unloading supervision is a must. Let us look at the process of unloading inspection-
- The arrival time of the consignment at the destination is recorded.
- The quantity of the containers is noted once the unloading starts.
- Each container is checked for any damages or risk of displacement.
- All the documents received from the loading inspector are reviewed.
- Packaging, labeling, and marking on the containers are checked.
- The cleanliness report is reviewed.
- Measurements of the vessels/containers are recorded and cross-checked with the loading inspection documents.
- Sample containers are unsealed and tested for quality.
- An overall examination of the entire consignment is done.
Advantages of Container Unloading Inspection
Container Unloading Inspection is an essential part of the overall transportation of consignments from one place to another. There are several advantages of Container Unloading Inspection services-
- Verification of quality and quantity of the containers
- Documents from the loading inspection are adequately reviewed.
- Containers are checked against possible damages.
- Reduces cost on various levels.
- Mitigate any risks associated with the safety and security of the consignment received.
How can VERGER Group help you?
VERGER Group is an official NABCB-assessed, ISO-17020 accredited Inspection Body authorized to conduct on-site Container Loading and Unloading Inspections. Our team of inspectors has extensive experience in carrying out on-site inspections. We can help you with cargo loading and unloading procedure to ensure your consignments’ safety and security and check for product quality issues.
For any information on our inspection services, do give us a call.