Key data
| Stowage factor | 1.50–1.85 m³/t (typical 1.65)53.0–65.3 ft³/t (typical 58.3) |
|---|---|
| Form | Bagged |
| IMSBC group | n/a Not classified under the IMSBC Code (e.g. breakbulk or bagged goods). |
| Broken stowage | 12% |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Green coffee is shipped in bags from tropical growers to roasters, among the most taint-sensitive cargoes afloat. The effective stowage factor around 1.65 m3/t reflects the bags and the broken stowage. Delivering it sound is almost entirely a matter of controlling moisture, condensation and odours throughout the voyage.
Stowage & loading
Bags are stowed on dunnage with ventilation channels in holds that are clean, dry and completely free of odour and residue, because coffee absorbs taints readily and is itself aromatic. A stable, well-ventilated stow is built and torn bags set aside, with wet-weather handling tightly controlled.
Hazards & handling
Coffee is hygroscopic and highly prone to sweat and condensation damage, which causes mould, discoloration and loss of grade, and it both takes up and imparts strong odours, so segregation from odorous cargoes and fuel is essential. Infestation is a concern, and bag breakage and broken stowage are the main handling issues.
Carriage & discharge
Ventilation is managed meticulously on a dew-point basis to prevent ship and cargo sweat, the single greatest factor in arriving the cargo sound. The stow is monitored for moisture and heating. Discharge is by sling or net, with damaged bags segregated and holds cleaned of residue.
Key hazards
- Sweat and condensation damage causing mould and loss of grade
- Extreme taint sensitivity, both absorbing and imparting odours
- Infestation and bag breakage
Loading precautions
- Present clean, dry, completely odour-free holds and dunnage with ventilation channels
- Segregate strictly from odorous cargoes and fuel and set aside torn bags
- Manage ventilation on a dew-point basis to prevent sweat
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.