Cargo Mildew

Cargo Mildew refers to the phenomenon during international trade transportation and storage where, due to improper humidity, temperature, or poor ventilation, mold grows on or inside cargo, causing deterioration, discoloration, odor, or even rot. It commonly occurs in agricultural products (such as grains, coffee beans, tea), textiles, leather goods, wood, and paper products—goods with strong moisture absorbency. Usage scenarios include bill of lading remarks, insurance claims, commodity inspection reports, and quality clauses in sales contracts. Precautions: 1) Clarify liability; if caused by the carrier's failure to ventilate properly or unseaworthiness, the carrier may be liable; if caused by excessive moisture in the goods themselves or improper packaging, it is the shipper's responsibility. 2) Different from 'Cargo Sweat,' which is condensation on the cargo surface and does not necessarily lead to mildew; compared to 'Cargo Rotten,' mildew is less severe but may further develop into rot. 3) When insuring, confirm whether mildew risk is covered; ordinary FPA usually does not cover it, and additional coverage such as Risk of Sweat and Heating or Rejection Risk is needed. 4) After mildew occurs, promptly apply for a notarial survey and preserve evidence for claims.