Water on the outside may form when moisture in surrounding air condenses on a cold surface. Sweating alone does not mean the container is defective.
Measure ambient temperature and relative humidity at the same time, then calculate or measure the dew point. Record the method and instrument.
Measure surface temperature at corners, side walls, the lid joint and base. Map wet areas with photos and locations.
During measurement, note the internal load, starting conditions, lid openings, floor contact and time in the environment. Do not treat observations under different conditions as equivalent.
If a localized difference recurs, inspect the gasket, joints, damage and drainage according to model instructions. A surface pattern alone cannot diagnose a thermal bridge.
If pooling creates a slip, wet-packaging or label risk, make the area safe and follow site procedure. Repeat measurements under comparable conditions.
