Container Handling Suggestions
The definition of a "loaded container" for the purpose of container handling and securing; is a container other than in the empty or tare condition. Containers should be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. In order to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions such as wind need to be taken into account. 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 low and central as possible, the cargo must be distributed all over the container.
Having an equally distributed load it is advantageous to avoid lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting, in order to maintain safety. A load which is even helps to avoid unacceptable load concentrations, and unacceptable vehicle axle loading.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the distribution of load within the container. It is very essential that the designers of containers and handling machinery take this into consideration in the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60% of the load by mass is distributed in 50 percent of the container length measured from one end of the machinery, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
In order to make certain that the machinery used is perfect for the cargo, care has to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Particular attention must 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 a tank container, a bulk container or a container with a liquid bulk bag or a thermal container with a refrigerating unit, either clip on or integral, or any container with a hanging load, great care should be taken when raising these.
Different methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned may be taken into consideration, but just after careful evaluation of the machinery by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to international container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is vital 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.