AI Tool Detects Misdeclared Dangerous Goods

AI Tool Targets Misdeclared Dangerous Goods to Prevent Container Ship Fires

The World Shipping Council (WSC) has launched a powerful new AI-driven cargo screening system as part of its Cargo Safety Program, aiming to detect misdeclared and undeclared dangerous goods inside shipping containers before they are loaded. The industry-wide initiative, backed by carriers representing more than 70% of global TEU capacity, seeks to reduce ship-fire incidents, protect crew members, safeguard vessels, and preserve the marine environment across the global sea freight network.

Rising Risk of Ship Fires

According to Allianz’s Safety and Shipping Review 2025, ship fires are at their highest level in over a decade, with misdeclared dangerous goods responsible for more than a quarter of cargo-related incidents. Recent high-profile cases include:

Marie Maersk – Contained a container fire off the coast of Africa before reaching Malaysia, prompting Maersk to declare General Average to share firefighting costs.

Wan Hai 503 – Suffered a catastrophic container fire and explosions that killed four crew members and left the vessel largely destroyed.

These incidents underscore the urgency for enhanced container safety measures.

How the AI Cargo Screening Works

Powered by technology from the National Cargo Bureau (NCB), the system scans millions of bookings in real time using keyword searches, trade-pattern recognition, and AI algorithms to flag suspicious shipments. Carriers review alerts and can trigger targeted physical inspections when necessary. The platform incorporates machine learning to adapt to new threats and improve accuracy over time.

Common Inspection Standards and Feedback Loop

In addition to digital screening, the program introduces standardized inspection protocols and a feedback mechanism that captures lessons from real incidents to strengthen preventive measures.

WSC President and CEO Joe Kramek stated:

“We have seen too many tragic incidents where misdeclared cargo led to catastrophic fires, including the loss of life. The WSC Cargo Safety Program strengthens the industry’s safety net by combining shared screening technology, common inspection standards, and real-world feedback to reduce risk.”

Ongoing Compliance Challenge

Despite rising awareness, WSC data shows that over 11% of inspected containers in 2024 had deficiencies—ranging from undeclared dangerous goods to improper packing and incorrect documentation—marking a slight increase over 2023.

By combining AI cargo screening with industry-wide standards, the WSC believes it can significantly reduce container-fire incidents, protect global sea freight operations, and prevent loss of life, vessels, and cargo.

Anil Darya International L.L.C-FZ specializes in the international transportation of dangerous goods, offering expert handling, documentation support, and secure sea freight solutions to ensure that every shipment meets global safety and regulatory standards.