Container Handling Tips
The definition of a "loaded container" for the purpose of securing and container handling; is a container other than in the tare or empty condition. Containers must be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. In order to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions like wind need to be considered. The term loaded is the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to guarantee that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the cargo needs to be evenly distributed throughout the container.
In order to maintain safety, having an equally distributed cargo is beneficial to prevent lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting. An even cargo helps to prevent unacceptable load concentrations, and unacceptable vehicle axle loading.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity differs, with the distribution of load in the container. It is extremely essential that the designers of handling machines and containers take this into account during the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the container length measured from one end of the machine, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
Make sure that the container is free to be handled and care has to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container, in order to make certain that the machinery used is right for the load. Particular attention must be paid to the possibility of the container tilting due to the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When lifting any container whose centre of gravity is eccentric or mobile, like 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 cargo, great care must be taken when lifting these.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned could be taken into consideration, but only after careful assessment of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to global container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is vital in every situation and time should be taken prior to starting in order to make sure overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best possible way.