Stowage
Heavy cases should be reserved for bottom stowage where possible, with smaller packages on top. Small, very heavy packages should not be placed on top of and within the four corners of a larger, lighter package to avoid the risk of the lower case collapsing. Any marks or indications for upright or protected stowage should be carefully observed. Light cases and cartons should be stowed one upon the other so that each one below bears the full weight of the one above and particularly in the case of cartons of canned goods, no overhangs should occur which might distort the cartons and repture the contents. Refrigerated cargo requires special care to ensure that adequate air can move through and around the cases, crates or cartons as required for the particular commodity (see “Refrigerated Cargoes”). Any broken or holed cartons, cases or crates should be examined at time of loading and if the contents are intact they should be repaired prior to stowing. Pilfered or badly damaged cases, etc., should be rejected or the bills of lading claused accordingly