New data from the World Shipping Council (WSC) highlights growing concerns over mis-declared and improperly packed cargo in containers. Based on port state inspections, 11.39% of containers were found with safety deficiencies in 2024, an increase from 11% in 2023. This rate translates to an estimated 27.5 million containers annually, given the global total of 250 million shipments per year.

WSC President & CEO Joe Kramek stressed that over one in ten shipments showing deficiencies underscores significant gaps in cargo safety, which pose risks to crews, vessels, cargo, and the environment. Common issues include undeclared dangerous goods, incorrect documentation, and poor packing, all of which can lead to severe incidents such as ship fires.

Recent cases include a fire on Wan Hai 503 in June and a blaze aboard Maersk’s Marie Maersk last month. The WSC urged stronger safety measures and expanded reporting, noting that only seven port states currently share inspection data.