Container Damage Report on Arrival – Surveyor in South of France

When a container arrives at destination with visible structural damage, fast and independent assessment is essential. In the south of France, MCL Surveys provides detailed container damage reports for cases involving flexitank failures, side wall deformation, or cargo-related incidents — ensuring compliance with insurer and freight industry requirements.

In a recent case inspected near the Port of Marseille, a 20-foot container equipped with a flexitank was rejected upon arrival due to severe structural deformation. Our team was dispatched immediately to perform an on-site inspection and report.

Nature of the Incident

The container was sealed and externally compliant at first glance. Upon unloading, handling personnel observed:

• Bulging of the container’s front panel and side walls

• Signs of internal pressure on the structure

• Liquid traces inside the container, consistent with flexitank leakage

The flexitank had shifted during transport, causing internal hydraulic pressure that distorted the container shell. The leak, combined with dynamic movement of the cargo, exerted force beyond structural limits — leading to visible buckling of the container walls.

All observations were documented with photos, measurements, and technical verification of container specifications.

Survey Results & Reporting

Our independent survey confirmed that the container’s structural failure was caused by cargo shift and fluid displacement due to flexitank malfunction or rupture during transit. The damage compromised the container's integrity, and the cargo could not be safely discharged without risk.

MCL Surveys prepared a full report within hours, accepted by the stakeholders and insurer for immediate claims processing and liability assessment.

For more information or to request their services, MCL Surveys can be contacted at +33 (0) 4 95 051 500 or via email at contact@mclsurveys.com