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 for instance wind need to be taken into account. The term loaded refers to the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. To be able to ensure that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the cargo must be distributed all over the container.
Having an evenly distributed cargo it is advantageous to avoid excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability, so as to maintain safety. An even load helps to avoid unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity differs, with the load distribution in the container. It is extremely important that the designers of handling machines and containers consider during 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 percent.
To be able to make sure that the equipment utilized is perfect for the load, 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 should be paid to the risk of the container tilting because of the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising any container whose centre of gravity is eccentric or mobile, like for instance a tank container, a bulk container or a container with a liquid bulk bag or a thermal container with a refrigerating unit, either integral or clip on, or any container with a hanging load, extreme care needs to be taken when raising these.
Different methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned could be taken into consideration, but only after careful assessment of the machinery 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 prior to starting in order to make certain all situations are handled in the best possible way and overall efficiency is maintained.