Indicators are used to monitor the transport, handling and storage processes in the logistics chain. For the applications that concern us here, these indicators are:

• Humidity indicators
• Tilt indicators
• Jolt and shock indicators

4.5.1  Humidity indicators

Humidity indicators are used in order to monitor the "desiccant" corrosion protection method. These indicators are available in a number of different forms and are placed inside the closed film cover. A window element must be incorporated in the film cover to allow the indicator to be read. The package (box) must be fitted with an inspection flap near the indicator to allow the indicator to be read from the outside (see section 3.1).

Figure 25: Humidity indicator (source: TCI)

Figure 26: Humidity indicator with viewing window (source: TCI)

4.5.2  Tilt indicators

Tilt indicators are primarily used with smaller packages to provide evidence whether these packages have been tilted or rolled. If a particular angle (tilt angle) is exceeded, the indicator is activated and provides an optical indication that the package has been tilted. This indication is a one-off indication, which means that it is not possible to provide evidence as to whether a package was tilted several times.

Figure 27: Tilt indicator that has not triggered (left)
and that has triggered (right). Source: TCI

4.5.3  Jolt and shock indicators

Jolt and shock indicators are triggered if a specific Jolt or shock level is exceeded. The precise trigger level will depend on the sensitivity of the packaged goods. Mechanical indicators are available that are triggered by one-off events, and are therefore not able to provide evidence of multiple events.

Figure 28: One-off indicator for jobs and shocks (source: TCI)

4.5.4  Recorders

A better quality of monitoring is achieved if electronic recording devices are used. These record the level of the event if a threshold is exceeded and assign a time to the event.

Figure 29: Shock recorder (source: TCI)

Multifunctional measurement units are also available on the market. These can simultaneously record parameters such as acceleration, vibration, temperature, tilting and time as well as the location if necessary, and hence permit monitoring of the entire progress of the transport.