Web alert: loading of fertiliser at ports in China

The Standard Club would like to draw members' attention to a recent circular [PNI1502] from the ‘Huatai Insurance Agency & Consultative Service’ concerning problems commonly encountered when loading fertilisers in China.

The circular contains detailed information about the manner in which fertilisers are bagged, stored and loaded.

Loading method 1: Loading bagged cargo and cutting bags onboard
This method entails steel screens being placed over hatch covers on which fertiliser bags are cut and the contents forced through the screens. This requires any lumps to be broken down by hand to 2cm by 2cm.

Loading method 2: Cutting bags at the wharf and carrying bulk cargo in grabs
In this instance the stevedores cut and empty the bags on the dockside, the fertiliser is then smashed by a grinder, poured through a griddle then transported to the storage yard by conveyor belt. The fertiliser is then loaded onboard via grab.

Loading method 3: Loading bagged cargo
This method simply involves loading bagged fertiliser directly into holds via crane.

Each of these methods includes advantages and disadvantages. The circular draws the member’s attention to the possibility of cargo shortage and caked cargo using these methods. It also provides excellent advice on how to mitigate the effects of these two problems.

To view the advice in full, please follow the link to the circular, here.

Category: Cargo