Key data
| Stowage factor | 1.25–1.40 m³/t (typical 1.32)44.1–49.4 ft³/t (typical 46.6) |
|---|---|
| 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 rice is shipped where the trade requires sacks rather than bulk, in jute, woven polypropylene or paper bags. The effective stowage factor around 1.32 m3/t reflects the bags and the broken stowage. Its care concerns mirror bulk rice – moisture, taint, mould and infestation – with the added demands of stowing and protecting bags.
Stowage & loading
Bags are stowed on dunnage in tiers in clean, dry, odour-free holds, with a stable stow and ventilation as the trade requires. Torn bags are set aside, and wet-weather loading is managed closely because wetting rapidly damages rice and the sacks give little protection.
Hazards & handling
Rice is moisture-sensitive: wetting brings rapid mould, caking and discoloration with loss of value, and the cargo is highly prone to taint and to insect infestation, so fumigation is common. Bag breakage, pilferage and broken stowage are the principal handling and commercial concerns.
Carriage & discharge
Ventilation is managed carefully on a dew-point basis to keep the cargo dry and limit sweat, with the stow monitored for moisture and heating. Discharge is by sling, net or fork, with damaged or wetted bags segregated and holds cleaned on completion.
Key hazards
- Rapid mould, caking and discoloration if wetted
- High sensitivity to taint and insect infestation
- Bag breakage, pilferage and broken stowage
Loading precautions
- Present clean, dry, odour-free holds and dunnage the stow
- Set aside torn bags and manage wet-weather handling
- Confirm fumigation arrangements against infestation
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.