10. Transport terminal and ship operation
10.1. The container should travel directly to the container terminal without delays and in conformance with the times off power (a maximum of 1 hour for chilled cargo). Ideally, refrigeration should be applied during transport (also refer 9.2.3).
10.1. The container should travel directly to the container terminal without delays and in conformance with the times off power (a maximum of 1 hour for chilled cargo). Ideally, refrigeration should be applied during transport (also refer 9.2.3).
10.2. As vehicle exhaust gases contain ethylene it is vital to check that the ventilation openings (vents) on integral containers are closed prior to vehicles/prime movers coming anywhere near the container.
Note: Air freshening ports (vents) are reset open on arrival at export terminals when containers are placed on refrigeration power.
10.3. Containers carrying fresh fruit and vegetables (and chilled meat) should be given priority receival by the Export Terminals.
10.4. When the container is received at the terminal, the documentation should be checked to ensure that the produce is as expected. Containers with incomplete documentation should not be received until all specifications have been verified. Electronic transfer of documentation to terminals may alleviate potential delays.
10.5. The temperature of the container should be crosschecked with the Temperature indicated in the electronic Pre-Receival Advice (PRA) and/or with the temperature declared by the shipping line (or their refrigerated contractor). The Shipping Line should be informed immediately of any temperature fluctuations (ideally must be within 1ºC supply air of the exporter required setting) for immediate action. If repairs cannot be achieved the exporter must be advised so a decision can be made on whether the shipment is to proceed or not.
10.6. Refrigeration should be applied as soon as possible, but in any event no more than 30 minutes after receival, and the unit checked to ensure proper operation. All unit monitoring should not exceed 12 hour intervals and should be rechecked before they are transferred to a ship.
10.7. The ventilation (air freshening) openings should be checked to ensure they are in the correct position, i.e. normally open for horticultural produce. It is suggested that Ventilation Openings with marked positions, should be set as per the electronic Pre-Receival Advice (PRA) instructions.