15.6   Checklist
A checklist for correct packing of a refrigerated container should include at least the following points:
  • Tightness inspection of the container to be packed: has the container been damaged during previous transport (damage, cracks, holes)? Visual inspection from inside when the container is closed.
     
  • Cleaning of the container of cargo, cargo securing and packaging residues. Deodorization of the container in the case of odor tainting, e.g. by citrus fruits.
     
  • Is the cargo homogeneous (same carton size and same/different contents)? If the cargo is mixed, consideration must be given to whether the types of goods are compatible (see Section 13), e.g. respiration rate, ethylene and carbon dioxide production and/or sensitivity, degree of ripeness etc.
     
  • How long is the planned transport time? Is the storage life of the goods involved adequate?
     
  • Is the refrigeration unit functioning correctly? Calibration of thermostat temperature.
     
  • Refrigerated containers should be subjected to regular pre-trip inspections (PTI).
     
  • When bringing refrigerated and heatable tank containers into service, it must be ensured that the temperature is set correctly and that, in the case of refrigerated containers, the temperature recorder is running and the temperature is displayed.
     
  • With tank containers, it must be checked whether the pressure and vacuum relief valve is clean and/or functional.
     
  • Condition of the rubber door gasket.
     
  • Drain plug present and inserted?
     
  • Prior to packing, the containers have to be precooled to the temperature required for the cargo (compliance with cold chain).
     
  • To comply with the cold chain, packing or unpacking must be performed quickly. In breaks in packing or unpacking, the doors of the container must be closed.
     
  • How high is the transport temperature? What is the critical temperature? What air exchange rate is required? The air exchange rate in containers can only be influenced to a limited degree.
     
  • Have the packaging or its contents been visibly damaged?
     
  • Are all seals (air-tight closure, gasket, lead seal, closure wiring), especially the door seals and closures, in good order?
     
  • Are the documents required for transport and hand-over complete?
     
  • In the case of containers bound for Australia and New Zealand, are all the necessary certificates to hand?
     

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