What is Fumigation?
Fumigation is a process of killing pests, termites or any other harmful living organisms to prevent the transfer of exotic organisms. Fumigation is implemented, by suffocating or poisoning the pest, within an area of specified space by using fumigants. A licensing authority gives the approval for carrying out fumigation by issuing a fumigation certificate by the fumigator. Most countries do not allow the import of goods without a fumigation certificate, wherever applicable on such assets.
Importance of Cargo Fumigation
Fumigation is an important part of the container shipping cycle and is an area where having more in-depth knowledge is useful for making unnecessary preparations. For example, as a purchase in the U.S., you may come across the term “USDA Examination” on a container you may have imported. The primary purpose of this exam is to check the condition of pests or other insects’ infestations within your cargo. Your cargo’s proper fumigation and important backup documents help ensure your container successfully passes the examination.
How the process of Cargo Fumigation Takes Place?
The process of fumigation changes accordingly to the content of the container. In some cases, a vacant container is fumigated before the loading of goods. However, the most-common process involves fumigation after the stuffing of cargo is complete and the door of the container is closed. This method of fumigation is more effective, as the gases used for fumigation circulate inside the container. But this method of fumigation is not allowed for cargo containing certain food products for direct consumption and other specified goods.
Nowadays, using substitute packing materials, such as plastic packing materials (plastic pallets, crates, etc.) has become more popular due to its safety when using pesticides. Also, “man-made” wood-packing materials are worth considering, such as cardboard boxes, blockboard, plywood, MDF/HDF (wood-based products obtained by pressing wood fibers), and hardboard (high-density fiberboard) that are made under high temperatures and high pressure. During manufacturing, all the insects in these “man-made” wood-packing materials are eliminated because of high temperature and high pressure.
With the proper tools and preparation, you can rest assured that your shipment will arrive intact. If you’d like to learn more about Cargo Fumigation Process In Shipping, Get in touch with the experts at Tenax Transport today. We’d be more than happy to answer your queries.