Key data
| Stowage factor | 1.10–1.30 m³/t (typical 1.20)38.8–45.9 ft³/t (typical 42.4) |
|---|---|
| Form | Bagged |
| IMSBC group | n/a Not classified under the IMSBC Code (e.g. breakbulk or bagged goods). |
| Broken stowage | 10% |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Bagged sugar is shipped where bulk handling is unavailable or where the trade requires bags, in jute, woven polypropylene or paper sacks. The effective stowage factor around 1.20 m3/t reflects the bags and the broken stowage between them. The cargo's care concerns mirror bulk sugar – moisture, taint and damage – with the added handling demands of bags.
Stowage & loading
Bags are stowed on dunnage in tiers, with care to build a stable stow that will not collapse or shift, and ventilation channels are maintained where the trade requires. Holds are clean, dry and odour-free, and broken or torn bags are set aside. Wet-weather loading is managed closely because the sacks offer little protection against rain.
Hazards & handling
Sugar is hygroscopic and the bags absorb moisture and harden, and wetting can cause fermentation, heating and bag failure with sticky spillage. The cargo taints readily and is easily contaminated, and torn bags and pilferage are commercial concerns. Broken stowage and bag breakage are the main planning issues alongside moisture.
Carriage & discharge
Ventilation is managed to limit sweat without admitting damp air, and the stow is monitored for any sign of moisture, heating or collapse. Discharge is by sling, net or fork, with damaged bags segregated. Holds are cleaned of sticky residue and spilled sugar on completion.
Key hazards
- Hygroscopic hardening and bag failure as sugar absorbs moisture
- Fermentation, heating and sticky spillage if the cargo is wetted
- Taint, contamination and bag breakage in handling
Loading precautions
- Present clean, dry, odour-free holds and dunnage the stow
- Build a stable bag stow with ventilation as required and set aside torn bags
- Manage wet-weather handling to protect the sacks
Stowage factors are indicative and vary with grade, origin, moisture and packing. Always verify against the shipper's cargo declaration and the applicable IMSBC Code schedule before fixing or loading. This is general information, not professional or safety advice.