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Gas measurements & degassing

When shipping goods in closed containers, dangerous gases can accumulate during transport either released by the cargo itself (e.g. wood, plastics, electronics) or as a result of chemical treatments (fumigation).

Before opening or unloading these containers, a gas measurement is often required to ensure safe working conditions. In the Netherlands and many EU countries, these checks may be legally required under health and safety laws (e.g. Arbowet) or customs inspections.

When is a gas check or degassing required?

Gas detection is mandatory or highly recommended when:

  • The container is sealed and has travelled long distances
  • The cargo is treated with fumigants (e.g. for pest control)
  • The shipment contains goods like shoes, textiles, electronics, wood or plastic
  • Workers or warehouse staff could be exposed when opening

Even containers that appear “normal” can contain dangerous levels of gases such as formaldehyde, ethylene oxide, phosphine, toluene or carbon monoxide. We measure according to international exposure limits (e.g. TLV, NIOSH, European safety standards).

What does MOL Logistics offer?

MOL Logistics provides full-service container gas safety from certified on-site measurements to safe degassing and reporting. If gas levels exceed safety limits, we ventilate the container immediately using controlled methods, then issue a compliance-ready report for customs or internal use.

We advise on cargo types that may emit harmful gases (like shoes, furniture or electronics), and help you prevent future build-up with proactive planning.

All procedures follow applicable safety regulations and international exposure limits carried out by trained, certified professionals.

How a gas measurement works

Four steps from booking to a clean container.

1

Booking

You share the container number, arrival location and expected unload date. We send a certified gas inspector to site.

2

Measurement

The inspector drills a small sampling hole in the door seal and measures for the most common toxic gases. Results come in within 30 minutes.

3

Report

You receive a digital certificate with the measurements per substance. If all values are below the legal threshold, the container can be opened.

4

Degassing if needed

If values exceed the threshold, we arrange active ventilation or chemical neutralisation. A re-measurement follows and a clean certificate is issued before unloading.

When is a gas measurement required?

Under the Dutch Arbowet and similar EU labour laws, employers must protect staff against hazardous substances. In practice this means a gas measurement is needed whenever:

  • The container carries a fumigation certificate, visible warning sticker or unknown origin
  • Customs or the bonded warehouse requires it before release
  • Staff will physically enter the container to unload by hand

Even without a fumigation sticker, residual gases can build up during transit. When in doubt, measure.

Do not open an untested container

Opening a fumigated container without measurement is illegal under Arbo rules and a direct health risk. A measurement takes 30 minutes and costs a fraction of the fine or the hospital bill.

FAQ

We are happy to answer your questions. Browse our most frequently asked ones or get in touch.

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We handle a wide range of cargo: general freight, perishables, hazardous goods, and project or oversized loads. Specialised equipment and certified teams run each category under strict industry rules.

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