In the case of a CY/CY or CY/CFS container service, the shipper has to arrange for the drayage of the empty container from the carrier's container terminal to the shipper's premises. The shipper must inspect the container to ensure it will adequately protect the cargo. In a dry cargo container, the doors, walls and ceiling demand the utmost attention.
The doors must be in good working condition and the door locking bars should secure and lock properly. The load may push against the container doors during a rough sea voyage. Even though the rating of a 20' container is 24,000 kgs., the doors cannot withstand that much pressure of solid load pushed against them during conveyance.
The walls and ceiling must be free from cracks or damage to prevent water and moisture from entering. There is a chance that a dry cargo container will be carried on deck since the cellular container ship carries about one-third of the containers on deck. The possible ingress of the sea water, rain and salt-laden moisture through a damaged container may ruin the cargo.
Always inspect the container before using it. If a container was contaminated (e.g. chemical spill) in prior use, then using the same container can be hazardous. Extra caution must be taken when packing food products in a dry cargo container. Some food products may absorb odor and moisture.