Penelitian ini mengkaji penyebab kerusakan kontainer pada MV Ifama Mas di Pelabuhan Belawan serta merumuskan langkah pencegahan operasional. Metode yang digunakan adalah kualitatif dengan studi kasus melalui observasi lapangan, wawancara kru/tenaga bongkar muat, dan telaah dokumen prosedur. Analisis deskriptif dilakukan untuk mengidentifikasi pola kerusakan dan faktor pemicunya. Hasil menunjukkan sebagian besar kerusakan telah terjadi pra-pemuatan—terutama sejak tahap gate-in/handling di pelabuhan asal (Tanjung Priok)—akibat pengganjalan (chocking) yang keliru, minim inspeksi awal, dan proses bongkar muat yang tergesa-gesa. Jenis kerusakan yang dominan meliputi penyok, lubang akibat korosi, dan kelemahan struktural pada panel/ujung kontainer. Di sisi lain, penerapan standar IMO serta kriteria IICL untuk inspeksi dan lashing belum optimal sehingga memperbesar risiko kerusakan saat penanganan dan penumpukan. Rekomendasi yang diusulkan meliputi pemeriksaan awal yang lebih ketat (gate-in checklist dan pre-lift survey), optimalisasi rencana penumpukan/stowage, pelatihan operator crane dan checker, serta pengawasan lashing yang disiplin sesuai standar internasional. Implementasi langkah-langkah tersebut diharapkan menurunkan insiden kerusakan, meningkatkan keselamatan kargo, dan memperbaiki efisiensi bongkar muat.

This study examines the causes of container damage on MV Ifama Mas at Belawan Port and proposes operational prevention measures. A qualitative case-study approach was used, combining field observations, crew/stevedore interviews, and a review of handling procedures. Descriptive analysis identified damage patterns and causal factors. Findings show that most damage occurred pre-loading—notably from the gate-in/handling stage at the origin port (Tanjung Priok)—due to incorrect chocking/blocking, insufficient pre-inspection, and rushed handling. Predominant damage types include dents, corrosion holes, and structural weaknesses on panels and end frames. Moreover, IMO standards and IICL criteria for inspection and lashing were not applied optimally, elevating risk during handling and stacking. Recommended actions include stricter pre-entry and pre-lift inspections (gate-in checklists and surveys), optimized stowage/yard stacking plans, targeted training for crane operators and checkers, and disciplined lashing oversight aligned with international standards. Implementing these measures is expected to reduce damage incidents, improve cargo safety, and enhance handling efficiency.