Container Handling Tips
The meaning of a "loaded container" for the purpose of container handling and securing; is a container other than in the empty or tare condition. Containers should be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. In order to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions such as wind has to be considered. The word loaded is the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to make sure that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the load should be distributed throughout the container.
To be able to maintain safety, having an evenly distributed cargo is helpful to avoid excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability. A cargo that is even helps to prevent unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
With the distribution of load in the container, the eccentricity of the center of gravity varies. It is very essential that the designers of containers and handling machinery take this into account during the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60% of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the length of the container measured from one end of the equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
Make certain that the container is free to be handled and care needs to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container, in order to make certain that the machinery used is perfect for the cargo. Particular attention needs to be paid to the possibility of the container tilting due to the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When lifting any container whose centre of gravity is mobile or eccentric, like a bulk container, a tank container a thermal container with a refrigerating unit or a container with a liquid bulk bag, either clip on or integral, or any container with a hanging load, extreme care should be taken when lifting these.
A variety of methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned can be taken into account, but just after careful evaluation of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to international container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is vital in each and every situation and time should be taken before starting in order to make sure overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best way possible.