Steel cargo – Problems

The most frequent damages in steel cargoes transported from the steel-plants to the ports by railway using open platforms or open wagons and stored at open area in the port open storage sites unprotected from elements, oil and grease from port equipment stains the steel cargo. Steel products also sustain serious damages such as mechanical damage caused by use of improper handling gear and rough cargo operations, etc, effecting their further use and subsequent claims against owners. In such cases Master should consider to reject the damaged cargo and ask for replacement which is often available. Surveyor’s attendance on board is strictly recommended in order to reflect actual cargo condition and advise Master accordingly. Any damage and defects should be determined and described in the cargo documents.

We recommend endorsing remarks as to condition of cargo into Mate's Receipt, Bill of Lading, issue to Master surveyor’s letter:

• Cargo stored at open area unprotected from elements

• Cargo partly rust stained, rust spots apparent

• Number of coils: inner and/or outer windings bent and/or dented to various extent

• Cargo wet before shipment

• Cargo stained with oil or grease patches

• Number of bundles: bundles envelope dent/deformed

• Number of bundles: one or more strapping bands torn/missing

• Number of bundles: envelopes torn open/punctured revealing

• Number of bundles: strapped insufficiently, wire strap loose

• Number of plates with corners/or edges bent

• Some plates partly covered with coal and/or chemical dust