Yes. Under the right conditions, water-based rust inhibitors for export shipments can provide reliable and cost-effective corrosion protection during international transit. Products such as ZERUST® Axxatec™ water-based rust inhibitors are specifically engineered to protect metal components during short- to medium-term export exposure when applied and packaged correctly.
These aqueous corrosion inhibitors typically deliver up to 3–6 months‡ of protection. Therefore, they are well-suited for containerized export shipments, regional ocean freight, and intercontinental air or ground transport. They perform best when metal surfaces are clean, residue-free, and visibly dry before application. Also, the treated parts should be packed in sealed or controlled environments, such as VCI bags or packaging.
How Water-Based Rust Inhibitors Perform During Export
Water-based rust inhibitors for export shipments work by forming a uniform, corrosion-inhibiting film on the metal surface that protects against moisture and oxygen exposure during transit. For optimal performance, apply the coating at the recommended concentration, allow it to dry completely, and protect it from moisture contact after drying.
When combined with ZERUST® VCI packaging, these inhibitors provide layered corrosion protection. The dried inhibitor film protects the metal surface, while released VCI molecules shield hard-to-reach areas, internal cavities, and exposed surfaces affected by vibration or handling during shipment.
Learn More About ZERUST® Water-Based Rust Inhibitors
Discover how ZERUST® Axxatec™ water-based rust inhibitors protect metal components during export shipments and work with VCI packaging to deliver reliable corrosion protection in transit.
Advantages of Water-Based Rust Inhibitors for Export Shipments
Manufacturers widely use water-based Axxatec™ inhibitors in export applications because they offer several operational advantages:
- Safer handling and lower VOC exposure compared to solvent or oil-based coatings
- Easier and faster removal at the destination, often requiring only light rinsing
- Improved compatibility with downstream processes such as painting, plating, or assembly
- Reduced risk of contamination for packaged components and containers
These benefits make water-based rust inhibitors for export shipments especially attractive for manufacturers shipping finished or semi-finished goods that must be ready for use upon arrival.
When Oil-Based Rust Inhibitors Are The Better Option
While water-based solutions are effective for many export scenarios, they are not ideal for every shipment. For ocean transport lasting longer than six months, highly humid or condensation-prone routes, or corrosion-sensitive metals such as cast iron or bare carbon steel, ZERUST® Axxanol™ solvent- or oil-based rust inhibitors deliver the most reliable protection.
These coatings provide a more durable physical barrier and can deliver six months up to three years‡ of protection. The exact duration depends on product selection and environmental exposure. Furthermore, perform especially well in extended storage, outdoor layup, and extreme marine environments.
Explore ZERUST® Oil-Based Rust Inhibitors for Export
For extended ocean shipments, high-humidity routes, or corrosion-sensitive metals, ZERUST® Axxanol™ oil- and solvent-based rust inhibitors provide durable, long-lasting protection during demanding export conditions.
Best Practices For Export Corrosion Protection
When oil or solvent coatings are not suitable, ZERUST® recommends a system-based approach for export protection. This includes combining an Axxatec™ water-based inhibitor with ZERUST® VCI packaging materials such as films, bags, or emitters. In addition, you should include moisture-control packets to manage humidity inside the package.
For export shipments with unique risk factors such as mixed metals, long transit times, or aggressive climates, working with ZERUST® technical specialists ensures the most effective and cost-efficient corrosion prevention strategy. ZERUST® develops customized recommendations based on shipment duration, metal type, packaging method, and environmental exposure.
Get a Customized Export Corrosion Protection Plan
Every export shipment presents unique corrosion risks. ZERUST® specialists can help you select the right combination of rust inhibitors, VCI packaging, and moisture control to match your shipment duration, metal type, and environmental exposure.
Axxatec™ 30C is a water-based rust Inhibitor designed to provide short-term indoor storage and in-transit protection. In addition to the corrosion protection offered, Axxatec™ 30C may also be used as a light-duty cleaner-rust preventative combination product.
Axxatec™ 48C is a water-based aluminum rust preventative liquid concentrate that also protects ferrous and yellow metals during indoor storage, shipping, and assembly.
Axxatec™ 80C is a water-based liquid concentrate rust preventative designed to provide long-lasting protection during indoor storage, shipping, and assembly.
Axxatec™ 8110C is an easy-to-use water-based corrosion-inhibiting additive for the protection of interior surfaces and parts comprised of iron, steel, aluminum, copper, and brass within closed systems.
Axxatec™ DA-23C is a dual-action water-based rust preventative and cleaner with low or no foaming that is designed to provide short-term rust protection and light-duty cleaning.
Axxatec™ DA-24C is a dual-action water-based yellow metal rust preventative and cleaner with low or no foaming that is designed to provide short-term rust protection and light-duty cleaning.
Axxatec™ DA-40AL is a dual-action aluminum rust preventative and cleaner with low foaming that is designed to provide short-term rust protection and light-duty cleaning.
Axxatec™ 85-F is a ready-to-use water-based VCI rust preventative liquid designed for fogging and spraying applications. It protects ferrous metals using ZERUST® contact inhibitors and proven Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology.
Axxatec™ 87-M is a ready-to-use foggable water-based rust preventative designed for fogging and spraying applications. It protects ferrous metals using ZERUST® contact inhibitors and proven Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology and is multimetal compatible.
Axxatec™ 87-MB is a ready-to-use water-based rust inhibitor liquid designed for fogging and spraying applications. It protects ferrous metals by means of ZERUST® contact inhibitors and proven Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology and is multimetal compatible.
Axxatec™ 87-MW3 is a ready-to-use winterized foggable water-based rust preventative liquid designed for fogging and spraying applications in cold weather. It protects ferrous metals using ZERUST® contact inhibitors and proven Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology and is multimetal compatible.
