When opting to supply their own containers for maritime shipments, cargo owners must ensure full compliance with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) regulations and safety requirements. The containers must meet all technical specifications to accommodate the vessel's stowage configuration.
Shippers are required to maintain valid certification demonstrating the container's fitness for the intended cargo. This documentation must be presented upon request by the carrier or port authorities. For tank containers transporting liquid commodities, special considerations apply regarding expansion coefficients.
Notwithstanding any prior agreements concerning liquid expansion factors, carriers reserve the unconditional right to discharge necessary quantities from tank containers when deemed essential to prevent hazards to personnel, property, or the marine environment. Such emergency measures may be taken without liability to the carrier.
All costs, damages, and losses resulting from the exercise of this safety prerogative shall be borne exclusively by the cargo owner. Industry experts strongly recommend thorough risk assessment before selecting owner-provided containers, particularly for specialized shipments requiring tank or refrigerated units.
Maritime insurers emphasize that proper container selection and certification remain the shipper's responsibility throughout the transport chain, from initial stuffing to final delivery. Non-compliance may result in cargo rejection, additional handling fees, or voided insurance coverage.
