Protecting Cargo from Moisture Damage: Lotus Terminals Introduces Desiccant Bag Service for Ocean Exports
Moisture damage during ocean transport is a costly and often overlooked risk. At Lotus Terminals, we’re proud to introduce a new Desiccant Bag Service as part of our expanding suite of freight management solutions—designed to help customers reduce the risk of cargo damage from container condensation.
This new add-on is now available for all export containers, helping our customers protect their freight with greater confidence and ease.
The Hidden Threat: Container Rain & Moisture Damage
Shipping cargo across oceans subjects containers to dramatic temperature and humidity shifts. These fluctuations often result in “container rain”—condensation that forms on the interior walls and ceiling of the container, then drips down onto cargo.
This moisture can lead to:
Mold and mildew growth
Packaging breakdown
Product spoilage or degradation
Corrosion on machinery and metal parts
Real-world examples include:
- A shipment of leather goods arrived moldy after a 4-week ocean voyage through humid conditions.
- Wooden crates that warped and split after prolonged exposure to container condensation.
- Machinery that developed rust due to humidity buildup during transit.
These are avoidable losses—and desiccant bags can help.
How Desiccant Bags Work
Desiccant bags—also called “dry bags” or “stay-dry packs”—are moisture-absorbing pouches placed inside export containers. Made of absorbent materials like calcium chloride or silica gel, they actively draw humidity from the air and trap it, helping to maintain a drier microclimate inside the sealed container.
While not a guaranteed fix, desiccant bags significantly reduce the risk of moisture-related issues. They offer a simple, cost-effective solution to protect cargo during storage and transit.
At Lotus, we offer this service on both 20’ and 40’ export containers as part of our full-service approach to freight protection.
A Natural Add-On to Our Export Services
Desiccant Bag Protection pairs perfectly with our existing offerings, including:
- Heat Treatment & Fumigation – Compliant with ISPM 15 and global pest control regulations.
Container Cleaning Services – Ensuring containers are free of moisture-trapping residues, dirt, and debris before loading.
A perfect complement to our heat treatment, fumigation, and cleaning services—this simple add-on can help protect your freight and your bottom line.
Who Should Consider Desiccant Protection?
This service is suitable for any international shipper, especially if you’re exporting goods that are:
✅ Packaged in cardboard, fabric, or paper
✅ Made of or housed in wood
✅ Containing electronics or moisture-sensitive components
✅ Metal-based and prone to rust or corrosion
✅ Stored for extended periods before departure
Industries that benefit include:
- Manufacturing & Machinery
- Automotive & Industrial
- Forestry & Wood Products
- Agriculture & Packaged Food
- Consumer Goods & Electronics
Moisture damage doesn’t discriminate—and even one damaged shipment can cost thousands in product loss and customer claims.
Easy to Add, Simple to Use
We’ve made this service easy to include. Our team handles everything—from placement to sealing—during your container prep. It’s available as a simple line item in your quote or can be added with a quick note to our team.
As Glen Anweiler, our Field Operations Manager, puts it:
It’s an easy win for our customers. Just one more way we’re protecting their cargo—and their business—through every step of the supply chain.
Why Lotus?
With over 40 years in freight and logistics, Lotus Terminals is trusted by exporters across North America for specialized freight support—whether it’s over-dimensional cargo, time-sensitive shipments, or now, moisture control for containerized freight.
Our 2025 mantra—Everything Matters—guides every detail we manage. And now, that includes desiccant protection for ocean exports.
Get Started
Want to include desiccant bags in your next shipment?
📧 Email us at [email protected] or ask your Lotus rep to add it to your booking quote.
We’ll take care of it—because protecting your cargo is what we do. Everything Matters.
