11.39% Of Inspected Cargo Shipments Contained Deficiencies In 2024, WSC Says

The World Shipping Council (WSC) has restarted the reporting of global cargo inspection deficiencies, a data series that the International Maritime Organization (IMO) had stopped publishing in 2023.

The revived report shows that more than one in ten shipments inspected were found to have safety issues, raising concerns for crews, ships, cargo, and the environment.The latest 2024 report revealed that 11.39% of inspected cargo shipments contained deficiencies. This is a slight increase from the IMO’s last published figure of 11% in 2023.The most common problems were undeclared or mis-declared dangerous goods, errors in documentation, and unsafe packing practices. These issues are known to cause serious incidents, including fires on board ships. 

The new report continues a data record that began in 2011 and is based on cargo inspections carried out by port States. International rules allow port States to check containers to ensure that goods are properly declared and packed in line with safety standards.

Currently, only seven port States are submitting their results, and the WSC believes that greater participation would provide a stronger and more accurate global picture.WSC President and CEO Joe Kramek said that with more than one in ten shipments showing safety gaps, the risks are still too high. He added that these deficiencies endanger crews, vessels, cargo, and the marine environment. He also explained that regular reporting makes it possible to identify trends and take corrective steps. According to him, contributions from more governments would strengthen cargo safety worldwide.

According to IMO’s Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS), deficiencies were recorded at 8.64% in 2017, 8.40% in 2018, 6.54% in 2019, 7.41% in 2020, 10.86% in 2021, 7.84% in 2022, and 11.00% in 2023. At 11.39% in 2024, the level of concern remains high.Past efforts include co-developing the CTU Code Quick Guide and Checklist to promote safe container packing, supporting work to reduce container losses at sea, and cooperating with the IMO on stricter rules for dangerous goods.

The WSC is preparing to launch an industry-wide Cargo Safety Program. This initiative will focus on improving cargo screening, inspections, and compliance standards. Kramek said that combining accurate reporting with better screening, clear rules, and practical guidance can reduce risks and protect lives, property, and the marine environment. 

The WSC has submitted its consolidated inspection results to the IMO’s Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC).

Source: WSC