Fumigation is widely regarded as one of the most reliable methods for controlling Stored Product Insects (SPIs)—including beetles, weevils, mites, and moths. It plays a crucial role in protecting industries such as agriculture, milling, warehousing, manufacturing, shipping, and cargo handling.

For example, fumigating bulk cargo before shipment helps stop infestations at the source, ensuring goods are transported without contamination risks. Commodity fumigation refers to treating goods—whether grain, packaged products, or even personal belongings being imported or exported—with a gas, chemical, or specialized process to prevent pest issues. These goods might be shipped loose (LCL: loose container load), packed in a full container (FCL: full container load), or stored in a silo.

Container fumigation focuses on treating either the container or its contents to stop pests and diseases from crossing borders. Shipping containers come in different sizes, most commonly 0.5 m and 1 m, though options like 25 cm, 1.15 m, and the taller “High Cube” versions are available. Standard containers are about 22 cm high, while High Cubes are slightly taller at around 24 cm.