When rust spots appear on stainless steel upon arrival, it is often not a material issue but external contamination during storage and transport:

- Storing mixed with carbon steel or using carbon steel lifting gear or wire ropes introduces free iron, which forms rust spots when exposed to moisture. - In open-air or damp warehouses, chloride ions in condensation and dust attack the passive film. - When plates are stored upright without being raised at the bottom, standing water on the floor causes edge corrosion.

Recommendations: use dedicated stainless steel lifting gear, isolate with dunnage or rubber pads, store indoors in dry conditions, use VCI film and desiccants for sea freight, and keep photos of the packaging as evidence in case of disputes.