What the ONE Apus Container Disaster Teaches Us About Choosing a Freight Forwarder

In November 2020, the container ship ONE Apus was sailing from Yantian, China to Long Beach, California when it ran into severe weather roughly 1,600 nautical miles northwest of Hawaii. By the time the dust settled, the vessel's owners and managers confirmed that an estimated number of 1,816 containers had been lost overboard, while dozens more were damaged. According to gCaptain, this disaster was often considered one of the worst cargo losses in the industry's recent history, and still gets referenced as what could go wrong when cargo is entrusted to the wrong hands or process.

Although most Singapore businesses will never deal with shipping issues at this scale, the ONE Apus incident prompts business owners to reflect on how they can choose a reliable freight forwarder to handle their cargo.

What Went Wrong

Investigators looking into the ONE Apus incident have analysed how cargo was secured, how containers were stacked, and how much exposure the vessel had to extreme weather along its route. One of the key questions that was often raised was if the vessel had properly followed its cargo securing manual. Moreover, investigators also looked into how international maritime law requirements govern how cargo units should be secured for the journey.

Several factors including unfavourable weather conditions, the ship's rolling behaviour, and the dangers of stacking containers eight-high on deck were also pointed out as likely contributors to the case. As these factors were considered standard to everyday shipping journeys, it was concluded that the safe arrival of a shipment was often determined by the proper handling of the basic variables.

Based on the ONE Apus incident, here are some lessons that business owners can take note of when it comes to choosing a freight forwarder.

Lesson 1: The Importance of Engaging Experienced Freight Forwarders 

A reliable freight forwarder should be proactively involved in the packing, loading, documentation, as well as tracking of your cargo until it reaches its destination. Experienced freight forwarders can promptly respond to unexpected threats or risks during any stage of the shipment. In addition, business owners should choose a freight forwarder who understands how to manage cargo securing and weight distribution, and one that is aware of the weather risks involved in the cargo’s specific route. 

Lesson 2: Deciding Between Sea or Air Freight

Understanding the risks and costs associated with sea freight and air freight can guide you in making a more appropriate choice. In general, sea freight is considered more cost-effective for large or heavy shipments. However, it comes with longer transit times and more exposure to similar weather-related risks as the ONE Apus incident. On the other hand, air freight is faster and tends to require less handling, which may help reduce certain risks. Keep in mind that it comes at a higher cost, and may not be practical if you are shipping bulk or oversized cargo. When comparing between the two, there is no single option that is considered safer, as the most suitable choice depends on the item you are shipping, the time sensitivity involved, and the risk you are willing to take compared to cost savings.

Lesson 3: Cargo Insurance and Liability Coverage is Non-Negotiable

Cargo insurance is critical to any shipment, including those handled by the most experienced freight forwarder. This is because there are numerous uncontrollable factors when it comes to cargo shipment, such as extreme weather, mechanical failure, and various forms of human error. Before booking a shipment with any freight forwarder, find out more about the liability coverage provided by your freight forwarder or carrier by default, and the additional cargo insurance that is needed. 

Lesson 4: Asking the Right Questions Before Booking a Singapore Freight Forwarder 

Before deciding on a suitable freight forwarder in Singapore, it is important to ask a few questions. For instance, ask about how this forwarder handles cargo securing and stacking according to the mode of transport you are using. You should also inquire about their track record on transit times and damage claims, along with the included liability coverage to help you know the cargo insurance you need. A trusted freight forwarder can provide the answers to these questions clearly, while also keeping you updated while your shipment is in transit. 

Choosing a Freight Forwarder You Can Trust

Although the ONE Apus incident is an extreme case that has a very small possibility of repeating itself, there is a strong lesson that business owners should take note of for any kind of shipping: their cargo always requires proper planning, handling, and accountability to improve the chances of a smooth journey. Ultimately, the freight forwarder you choose in Singapore for sea or air shipment should be able to inform you about all the details you need clearly for your cargo, which goes beyond their standard price quotation.

If you are planning a shipment and want a freight forwarding partner to manage cargo handling from booking to delivery, get in touch with Wee Care Mobility to discuss your needs. Our professional and experienced team is here to help your goods reach any destination so that you can grow your business and market reach with efficiency and peace of mind. Check out our service page and choose one according to your needs!