Container Handling Tips
A "loaded container" by description is a container other than in the tare or empty condition, in reference to container handling. Unless otherwise confirmed, containers should be treated as loaded. In order to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions like wind has to be considered. The word loaded refers to the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to make sure that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the load must be evenly distributed throughout the container.
To be able to maintain safety, having an evenly distributed load is beneficial to prevent lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting. A load which is even helps to prevent unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity differs, with the distribution of load within the container. It is very important that the designers of containers and handling machinery take this into account in the engineering process. 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%.
To be able to make sure that the machinery utilized is perfect for the cargo, care has to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Specific attention needs to be paid to the risk of the container tilting because of the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When lifting any container whose centre of gravity is eccentric or mobile, 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 cargo, great care must be taken when lifting these.
Different methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned may be taken into account, but just after careful assessment of the machine by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to international container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is paramount in each and every situation and time has to be taken prior to starting in order to make certain overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best possible way.