How Container Desiccants Work and the Benefits of Using Them

Moisture is one of the most persistent risks in global shipping. Containers face fluctuating climates, day-night temperature cycles, and long transit times that often lead to condensation inside, which is sometimes called container rain. This condensation can cause mould, corrosion, packaging failures, and costly product losses.

Container desiccants provide an effective way to counter this, keeping cargo dry and secure throughout the journey.

What are container desiccants?

Container desiccants are moisture absorbing solutions designed specifically for use in shipping containers. Unlike small silica gel packs or sachets found in retail packaging, container desiccants are engineered for large volumes of air and extended shipping periods. 

They come in formats such as hanging bags, strips or adhesive covers, and are made to withstand weeks or months of changing humidity and temperature conditions. Explore FROMM's container desiccant range

How do container desiccants work?

Absorbtion vs Adsorption

Desiccants function in two main ways:

• Adsorption: Moisture molecules attach to the surface of a porous material such as clay or silica gel
• Absorption: Certain salts, such as calcium chloride or mineral blends, draw moisture inside and convert it into a gel or liquid, safely locking it away

Moisture Absorption Process

As desiccants reduce the container's relative humidity, they lower the dew point and prevent condensation from forming. High capacity formulations like FROMM's absorb up to 250-300% of their own weight in moisture and retain it safely in a gelled state.                                                                                         

Types of container desiccants

There are several styles to choose from, each suited to different applications:

• Dry Guard Shipping Container Desiccant: Hanging bags made with non-woven laminated material. They repel water externally while absorbing moisture internally and converting it to gel. Protection lasts up to 60 days.
• Active Mineral MBD-99 Cargo Guard: A high capacity mineral blend that lowers the dew point, reduces mould, rust and corrosion, and offers long lasting protection across sea, rail or road. 
• Dry Cover Shipping Container Desiccant: A flexible, self-adhesive option ideal for placing closer to cargo surfaces

All are part of FROMM's full range of protective consumables.

When and why to use container desiccants

Shipping moisture sensitive goods

Metals, textiles, electronics, paper products, coffee and grains are highly susceptible to humidity damage

Long distance or multi climate shipping

Containers travelling weeks at sea through varying climates are at the highest risk of condensation. Desiccants provide consistent protection throughout transit.

Partially filled or airy containers

The more air volume inside a container, the greater the risk of condensation forming. Desiccants effectively manage this risk. 

Cost effective moisture insurance

Compared to potential losses from rust, mould, or product spoilage, desiccants are a low cost, high value investment.

Best practice for using container desiccants

• Calculate requirements: Choose the correct number of units based on container size, cargo type, and expected humidity.
• Placement: Hang or secure desiccants along container walls or near cargo without direct contact. 
• Seal containers quickly: Reduce moisture entry during loading by closing doors promptly.
• Single use: Desiccant bags are designed for on-time use for maximum safety and reliability.

Protect your cargo with FROMM's container desiccants

FROMM Packaging Australia supplies a full suite of container desiccants to help safeguard goods against moisture damage during transport. With Dry Guard, MBD-99, and Dry Cover solutions, your cargo remains dry, secure and free from mould or corrosion risks. 
Discover our container desiccant solutions today. 

📞 Call us on 1800 940 356 or explore our protective packaging solutions online