What is the meaning of CW shipping containers?

CW shipping containers, also referred to as cargo-worthy containers, are ISO-certified shipping containers suitable for storing and transporting goods across long distances without posing any threat to the integrity of the cargo. The ISO certification assures shippers and shipping companies that the containers have been rightly manufactured and inspected before use. Let us learn more about cargo-worthy containers and a few tips to maintain the health of shipping containers.

What is a CW shipping container?

“CW”, a cargo-worthy or certified-worthy shipping container, is used for shipping goods internationally across borders. Cargo-worthy containers are used to describe the quality and condition of a shipping container in terms of its suitability for the transportation of goods through various modes of shipping. To ensure this, containers are inspected and certified as cargo-worthy and suitable for shipping cargo. ISO-standardised containers are proof that every container has met specific standards and criteria drafted by the International Standard Organisation (ISO) to ensure the safety and integrity of the goods it will carry. Cargo-worthy containers assure shipping companies and shippers that the container is in good condition and safe for cargo transport.

What happens to containers that are not cargo-worthy?

While containers must meet all standards to be hailed as cargo-worthy, several containers are not considered cargo-worthy. These containers can still be suitable for storage or other purposes that do not require transportation. These containers have not met the safety and quality standards needed for intermodal transport of goods and, therefore, are sold or leased at lesser rates by shipping companies or container leasing companies. They can be used for other commercial or domestic purposes, such as storage or converting them into gyms, cabins, or garages.

Characteristics of a CW shipping container

The features of a cargo-worthy container are-

1. Container structure- The structure of a container determines the capacity of weight of the cargo a container can support and protect it from any external conditions. The various components of the shipping container, such as its walls, roof, doors, and floor, must be in excellent working condition without any significant signs of damage or corrosion.
2. Weather resistant- A cargo-worthy container must be watertight and airtight to ensure it’s free from significant leaks or holes. Weather-resistant containers protect the cargo from moisture and water damage during long-distance transportation.
3. Clean containers- After every transit, the shipping company must thoroughly clean the container to remove any dunnage, contaminants or hazardous materials that could affect the next batch of cargo. Measures must be taken to avoid rodents or fungal growth inside the containers.
4. Proper doors and locks- The container doors should be functional and open and close properly. There are four locking rods, two on each container door. It is used to put container seals that prevent unauthorised access and maintain the container’s integrity.
5. Painted containers- Shipping containers are painted in different colours to avoid rusting and help make identification easier during international shipping.

Uses of CW shipping container

1. Intermodal transportation- Global trade rests on intermodal shipping, which involves multiple modes of transportation to ship goods across borders. Cargo-worthy containers can be accommodated in all sorts of transport, such as trucks, trains, ships and planes. They are certified and secure for manual handling and transportation.
2. International shipping- Shippers transport different types of cargo in various shapes, sizes, and states, such as solid, liquid, and gas. Cargo-worthy containers come in various types and dimensions and are internationally qualified to store and transport cargo securely without harming the shipment’s integrity.
3. Customisation- Cargo-worthy containers are often customised based on the need of the container buyer for ventilation systems, insulation, or electrical requirements. It is done in the case of shipping specialised goods such as perishables.

Tips to improve container health

• Shipping containers require scheduled inspections to look for any signs of damage, such as wear, tears or rusting.
• Repairs and maintenance must not be overlooked to retain the health of shipping containers.
• Washing and cleaning shipping containers helps eliminate dirt, debris, moisture retention, fungal growth, or contaminants that can harm the container.
• Shipping containers must have proper ventilation to prevent any chances of container rain leading to container rusting.
• Lubrication of hinges of container doors and locking rods is essential to ensure the smooth operation of moving parts.

By following these few tips, shipping container owners can retain the lifespan of their CW shipping containers and use them to their fullest potential without any cargo damage.

LOTUS Containers is a one-stop solution for buying or leasing a range of shipping containers in different sizes and dimensions. They offer shipping container solutions across the globe.