Container Handling Tips
The definition of a "loaded container" for the purpose of securing and container handling; is a container other than in the empty or tare condition. Containers must be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. To be able to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions like for example wind should be considered. The word loaded refers to the container's maximum gross weigh rating. In order to guarantee that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the load should be distributed throughout the container.
In order to maintain safety, having an evenly distributed load is beneficial to prevent lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting. An even load helps to avoid unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the load distribution within the container. It is extremely essential that the designers of handling equipment and containers take this into account in the engineering process. Like for example, when 60% of the load by mass is distributed in 50 percent of the container length measured from one end of the equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
In order to make certain that the machinery used is right for the cargo, care needs to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Particular attention should be paid to the possibility of the container tilting because of the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising 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 should be taken when raising these.
A variety of methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned may be taken into consideration, but just after careful evaluation of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to worldwide container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is paramount in each and every situation and time needs to be taken prior to starting in order to make sure all situations are handled in the best possible way and overall efficiency is maintained.