Container Handling Tips
The definition 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 taken into account. The word loaded refers to the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to make certain that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the cargo must be evenly distributed all over the container.
To be able to maintain safety, having an evenly distributed cargo is helpful to avoid lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting. A load that is even helps to prevent unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the load distribution in the container. It is extremely essential that the designers of containers and handling machinery take this into consideration in the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the container length measured from one end of the machine, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
In order to make sure that the machinery used is right for the load, care has to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Specific attention has to be paid to the risk 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, such as a tank container, a bulk container a thermal container with a refrigerating unit or a container with a liquid bulk bag, either integral or clip on, or any container with a hanging load, extreme care must be taken when raising these.
A variety of methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned can be taken into account, but only after careful assessment of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to global container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is paramount in 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.