Temperature changes inside domestic shipping containers

Temperature Changes Inside Domestic Shipping Containers

In domestic container shipping, except for insulated containers (those lined with insulating materials), the temperature inside the container is generally considered to be directly affected by external temperature changes. Therefore, the greater the external temperature fluctuation, the more likely it is to cause cargo damage due to moisture. Experiments conducted on empty containers placed in a container yard under direct sunlight show that the daily temperature cycle inside the container is more severe than that of the outside air. For upper-level containers, the maximum temperature difference between inside and outside can exceed 10°C, while the minimum difference can be around 5°C. This is due to the influence of radiant heat from the concrete floor of the container yard. During land transport (including container trucking and rail transport), especially on long-distance routes in inland areas, the climatic conditions along the route vary greatly, causing drastic temperature changes, making the daily temperature variation even more severe. During sea transport, except for coastal shipping, temperature changes in the hold are mainly influenced by seawater temperature, which varies little daily. Thus, the temperature in the hold remains relatively stable. During trans-Pacific voyages, hold temperatures range from 5–11°C in winter and 15–30°C in summer, rarely exceeding 35°C even in tropical regions. For containers stowed on deck, the internal temperature is also related to the stowage position. The uppermost and outermost containers are not only exposed to sunlight but also to seawater splashes and rain. Wind action can bring the internal temperature closer to the outside temperature. For containers stored in a warehouse, the temperature variation is smaller and changes more slowly compared to atmospheric temperature. If the outside temperature fluctuates very little, the internal temperature is almost equal to the outside air temperature. In reality, after containers are loaded with cargo, the internal temperature changes are very complex and also depend on the thermal properties and quantity of the cargo. Our editor will introduce more about the factors affecting container internal temperature later. Please stay tuned to Zhuhai Hengqin Bofeng Logistics!

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