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13
Oct
2025

Streamlining Cargo Hold Cleaning Processes for Efficiency

by Calista Nicks October 13th, 2025 in Cargo Hold Cleaning
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When cargo hold cleaning, efficiency doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It needs to be planned for. So the more things you can get in order first, the more efficient it can be. The more efficient it is, the faster and more smoothly operations go.

What does that look like for dry bulk carriers? Well, since cargo holds are the backbone of a profitable business, it means preparing in advance. Have cleaning solutions on hand. Have equipment and PPE available. Have instruction manuals, safety sheets, and cleaning schedules posted. And ensure the crew are well-trained for their jobs.

Cargo hold cleaning efficiency

  • Have cleaning solutions on hand 
  • Have appropriate equipment available 
  • Make PPE available
  • Have instruction manuals, safety sheets, and cleaning schedules posted
  • Ensure the crew are well-trained for their jobs

Have cleaning solutions at the ready

Cargo hold cleaning needs to happen in small windows of time as quickly as possible. Not having enough cleaning solutions, marine barriers, or bilge neutralisers on hand drastically slows things down. It means potentially making due with inferior products, over-priced products, or ineffectual products at your next port of call. Or perhaps none at all in the case of marine barriers, meaning more damage to the ship and a shortened lifespan if the next cargo is greasy or caustic.

For peak efficiency, ensure there are enough cargo hold cleaning solutions on board for the journey. Additionally, check to see if top quality solutions are available at your next destination. RMB Hold Solutions has over 50 stockpoints located around the world for your convenience. Contact us if you would like to discuss stock available at any of these locations.

Have the right equipment available

Every job in the world is done faster and better with the right equipment. Cargo hold cleaning is no different. Ensure your cleaning crews have the right tools for the job. Failure to do so means they take longer and can’t clean as well. The result is delays, fines, off-hires and money down the drain.

Make PPE available

People work more effectively and more quickly when they don’t have to worry if they’re adequately protected. PPE saves lives and prevents injuries, fines, and lawsuits.

Have schedules, instruction manuals, and safety sheets posted

Post cleaning schedules, as well as instruction manuals and safety sheets for the products in use, in an easily accessible area. These lets crews know exactly what they’re doing and when, as well as what to do in emergency situations.

Instruction manuals, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and compliance letters for RMB Hold Solutions products are posted online here.

Ensure the crew are well-trained for their jobs

Training saves not only time and effort, but builds confidence and excellence. Always ensure each new member is trained to the same high standards as the rest of the crew.

All of these steps, taken together, streamline cargo hold cleaning processes for efficiency and success. 



Thousands of vessels trust RBM eco-friendly products for their superior cargo hold cleaning performance. Ordering online is easy, or call 1-604-531-8333 and we’ll be happy to help.


Calista Nicks

Senior Content Writer
Marketing Writer for Cityline Websites


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