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 for example wind has to be considered. The word loaded is the container's maximum gross weigh rating. In order to make certain that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the cargo needs to be distributed all around the container.
Having an evenly distributed load it is helpful to avoid excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability, so as to maintain safety. A load which is even helps to avoid unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the distribution of load in the container. It is very important that the designers of containers and handling machines take this into consideration during the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50 percent of the container length measured from one end of the machine, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
To be able to make certain that the equipment utilized is right for the cargo, care needs to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Particular attention must be paid to the possibility of the container tilting due to the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising any container whose centre of gravity is mobile or eccentric, such as a bulk container, a tank 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.
Different methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned 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 worldwide container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is vital 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 way possible and overall efficiency is maintained.