Container Handling Tips
A "loaded container" by definition is a container other than in the empty or tare condition, in reference to container handling. Unless otherwise confirmed, containers must be treated as loaded. In order to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions like wind has to be considered. The term loaded refers to the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to ensure that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the cargo should be distributed all around the container.
Having an evenly distributed cargo it is helpful to prevent excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability, in order to maintain safety. A cargo which is even helps to prevent unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
With the load distribution in the container, the eccentricity of the center of gravity differs. It is extremely important that the designers of containers and handling machines take this into consideration during the engineering process. For example, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the length of the container measured from one end of the machinery, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
In order to make sure that the equipment used is perfect for the load, care has 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 because of the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When lifting any container whose centre of gravity is mobile or eccentric, like for example a tank container, a bulk 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.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned could be taken into account, but only after careful assessment of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With regards to worldwide container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is vital in each and every situation and time needs to be taken before starting in order to make certain all situations are handled in the best way possible and overall efficiency is maintained.