What Happens To Containers Lost Overboard? How Long Do They Float?
Shipping containers lost at sea might sound like the stuff of Hollywood blockbusters, but it’s a very real problem. Thousands of containers are lost overboard every year due to storms, high winds, and rough seas. While most of these containers are recovered within a few days, some are never found. Therefore, it is necessary to understand what happens when containers are lost on the high seas.
How Long Will a Shipping Container Float?
It is difficult to determine how long a shipping container will float after being lost overboard. The time will depend on the container’s size and weight, the weather conditions, and the water currents in the area. However, it is estimated that a container can float for anywhere from two days to two weeks. Therefore, it is important to keep track of lost containers and be prepared to retrieve them as soon as possible. You need to be aware that if a container is not recovered within two weeks, there is a good chance that it will sink and be lost forever.
What Happens to the Contents of a Container That Is Lost at Sea?
The contents of a container lost at sea will usually be ruined by saltwater. This is because the salt water will rust and corrode the metal and damage any electronic equipment inside the container. In addition, the saltwater will also cause any food or other perishable items to spoil. The issue of spoiled food needs to be taken into account when shipping food or other perishable items by container. This is an issue that shipping companies already know, and they have the appropriate measures to address this challenge.
How Can You Prevent Containers From Being Lost Overboard?
There are a few but major issues that you can do to prevent containers from being lost overboard. First, you can ensure that the containers are properly secured before loading onto the ship. Second, you can keep track of the weather conditions and ensure that the ship is not sailing in rough seas. Finally, you can make sure that the containers are tracked so that they can be quickly located if they are lost overboard.
Are Those Containers Ever Retrieved?
Most of the time, containers that are lost overboard are eventually retrieved. This is because several organizations keep track of lost containers and work to find them. However, there are some cases where containers are not retrieved and float indefinitely. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you have the proper insurance in place if your container is lost at sea.
Conclusion
It is important to be aware of the risks of losing a container overboard. However, most of the time, these containers are eventually retrieved. Therefore, it is important to have the proper insurance in case your container is lost at sea. Remember, the contents of a container lost at sea will usually be ruined by saltwater, so it is important to consider this when shipping food or other perishable items. Contact All Points Transport, LLC if you have any questions about lost containers.
Categorised in: All Points Transport