An ongoing increase in container liner use is currently part of the narrative when it comes to protecting commodity products in the current shipping container landscape. 

The ever-evolving world of cargo protection is seeing an increasing interest in container liners for the safeguarding of commodity products during transit. Where only desiccants were traditionally relied on, we have now been seeing a gradual adoption of shipping container liners as part of the solution. 

 

Let’s take a look at the two.

Desiccants – Originally the Only Go-to Solution

For decades, desiccants have been protecting cargo from moisture damage and ensuring the quality of commodity products during transit. These moisture-absorbing solutions are placed inside shipping containers to combat challenges such as humidity faced by regular or sensitive commodities such as cocoa and coffee. 

Of course some are more dependable and effective than others, such as clay-based (natural and environmentally-friendly) and gel-based (highly absorbent) container desiccants. In fact, certain brands are recommended by independent insurance brokers for the shipment of agricultural commodities and boast a long shelf life.

Container Liners – A Growing Trend & the Rise of Specialised Solutions

 

By now, it is obvious that container desiccants have not been the only players in the commodity transport space in recent years. Container liners have been around for a while and as mentioned we have been witnessing an uptake in use. 

Considering the different applications and benefits, the growing interest in and adoption of container liners are understandable. That is perhaps why many companies have moved beyond desiccant-only solutions by implementing container liner solutions as well.

Types of Container Liners

In general, container liners serve to protect commodity products in transit and storage from damage and contamination. Some, however, have more specialised roles.

A barrier liner solution, for example, aids in protecting and preserving the quality of commodity products that are shipped in containers by reducing the risk of condensation damage to the cargo. These liners are typically collapsed after stuffing to remove excess air, creating a vacuum that reduces the risk of condensation damage.

Thermal liners, for example, help maintain and preserve the quality of temperature-sensitive cargo. Specifically, they protect cargo from temperature fluctuations, container rain and cargo sweat that may occur during transit. Applications include wine, beverages, canned products, cocoa liquor and cocoa butter, various nuts and other perishable products.

The choice of liner should be guided by the specific products being transported. It is also crucial to ensure the quality of the selected liner through research and ideally requesting performance testing data if available. 

The Future of Commodity Protection

The eager adoption and implementation of container liners is expected to continue in the coming years, as liners have a proven track record of protecting cargo and ensuring product quality. Combine liners with desiccants and the future of cargo quality and safety looks bright. 

 

Our Liner Solutions

JB Anderson is committed to staying at the forefront of liner and desiccant innovation. That is why we are constantly developing new and improved solutions to meet the needs of our customers.

View the features and benefits of our wide range of effective container liner solutions here. Learn more about our Desiccant Range here.