Why do Exporters Count on Desiccant Paks During Long Transit?

Long transit is now not just possible but also very easy due to advancements in transportation infrastructure and technology. Humidity and moisture are major contributors to the spoilage of goods during long transit, and the conditions inside a shipping container can become surprisingly problematic even without any physical disturbance.

 

That's why modern methods, such as the use of desiccant packs have made long transit bearable and easy. The desiccant packs prevent container rain, condensation, rust/corrosion, mould, warping, fungal growth, swelling, etc.

 

Let's see why exporters count on desiccant Paks during long transit-

The Nature of Long Transit

Long transit refers to the shipping of goods over long distances, usually across countries or continents. This can include international sea freight, long-distance rail transport, or multi-leg road shipments that involve several stops and transfers. These types of shipping are often used for exporting goods from one country to another and can take several days to many weeks.

 

During long transit, cargo is exposed to different weather and climate conditions. For example, a container might start its journey in a hot and humid tropical port, then travel through cooler or even freezing areas inland. These sudden changes in temperature and humidity can lead to moisture problems inside containers, which can damage the goods.

 

Another factor that makes long transit risky is idle time. Goods often sit at ports waiting for the next ship or truck, go through customs clearance (which can take days), or are stored in warehouses before reaching the final destination. During this time, they are still affected by the surrounding environment, especially if the containers are not climate-controlled.

 

All these delays and conditions increase the chance of -

●     Mould and Mildew Growth: Common in textiles, leather, and agricultural products like grains or coffee beans, mould thrives in humid conditions, degrading product quality.

●     Corrosion: Metal components in electronics, machinery, or tools can rust when exposed to moisture, compromising functionality.

●     Spoilage: Perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, or pharmaceuticals can rot or lose potency due to humidity.

●     Warping and Degradation: Wood crafts, furniture, and paper-based products may warp or deteriorate when exposed to excess moisture.

In short, long transit involves more than just travel time—it’s also about waiting time and changing environments, all of which can affect the safety and quality of the cargo being shipped.

What Are Desiccant Packs, and How Do They Work?

Desiccant packs are small bags or sachets that are used to keep things dry by absorbing moisture from the surrounding air. They are often placed inside packages, boxes, or shipping containers to protect products from damage caused by humidity or condensation during transit or storage.

These Desiccant pouches for logistics are filled with special materials that pull in moisture. This happens in two main ways:

●     Adsorption: This is when materials like silica gel or clay attract water molecules to their surface and hold them there.

●     Absorption: This is a chemical process where materials like calcium chloride actually soak up water and change form, often turning into a gel or solid as they trap moisture.

Desiccant packs are usually wrapped in a porous material like Tyvek® or kraft paper, which lets air pass through so the moisture can reach the desiccant inside—but without letting the contents leak out. They come in many shapes and sizes, such as small packets for electronics, larger bags for bulk goods, or hanging units for shipping containers.

By lowering the moisture in the air around your products, desiccant packs help prevent problems like mould, rust, corrosion, or spoilage, making them a simple but powerful tool in protecting goods during shipping and storage.

Why Exporters Rely on Desiccant Packs

Exporters count on desiccant packs because they are a simple, affordable, and highly effective way to protect goods from moisture damage during long shipping journeys. These desiccant packs help keep products dry and safe across many industries.

They also help preserve the quality of food items like grains, nuts, and coffee beans, and even protect delicate art and antiques from warping or corrosion. Modern desiccants like silica gel and calcium chloride can absorb up to 300% of their weight in moisture, offering strong protection for weeks. Most are non-toxic and safe for use with sensitive products. Many desiccants can also be reused by drying them out, which saves money and reduces waste—great for the environment too.

They are also easy to use: exporters can place them inside packages, hang them on container walls, or attach them to pallets. With options like adhesive strips or hanging hooks, desiccant packs don’t take up much space but offer big protection.

For exporters, desiccant packs are a smart and cost-effective way to prevent damage and keep products in perfect condition.

How to Choose the Right Desiccant for Your Cargo?

Picking the right desiccant for your cargo depends on a few key factors. First, consider the type of product you’re shipping. Next, look at the size of your container—bigger containers need more desiccant. For instance, you might need six 125-gram strips for a 20-foot container, but around twelve for a 40-foot one.

 

The length of the journey also matters: longer shipping times mean you’ll need a desiccant that can hold more moisture or one that can be reused. The weather and climate along the route are another factor. Sea routes with high humidity usually require stronger moisture. If you're shipping food or medicine, make sure to use desiccants that meet safety rules like USFDA standards.

Sorbipaks Desiccant paks are the best and top solutions for the prevention of moisture damage to goods during long transit.

FAQS About the Use of Desiccant Paks for Long Transit

1.  What is a Desiccant Pack?

A desiccant pack is a packet filled with moisture-absorbing materials, such as silica gel or molecular sieves. These packets are designed to protect products from humidity, preventing damage from mould, mildew, or corrosion.

2.  How Long does a Desiccant Pack Last?

 

The lifespan of a desiccant pack depends on the environment, the type of desiccant, and the amount of moisture it absorbs. On average, a desiccant pack lasts between 1 and 6 months in typical conditions. In high-humidity environments, it may become saturated faster, requiring replacement sooner.

3.  Are Desiccant Packs Safe to Use?

Yes, desiccant packs are generally safe to use when handled properly. Most contain non-toxic materials like silica gel. However, they should not be ingested or opened, as the contents may cause irritation if inhaled or if they come into contact with skin or eyes.

4.  Are Desiccant Packs Better than Rice?

Desiccant packs are significantly more effective than rice for moisture control. While rice can absorb small amounts of moisture, it is far less efficient and can attract pests or develop mould over time. Desiccant packs, such as those containing silica gel, are specifically engineered for high moisture absorption and are reusable, making them a superior choice.