Container Handling Tips
A "loaded container" by definition 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 instance wind should be considered. The word loaded refers to 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 load should be equally distributed all around the container.
Having an equally distributed cargo it is beneficial to prevent excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability, so as to maintain safety. A load that is even helps to prevent unacceptable load concentrations, and unacceptable vehicle axle loading.
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 consider in the engineering process. Like for example, when 60% of the load by mass is distributed in 50 percent of the length of the container measured from one end of the machinery, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
Make certain that the container is free to be handled and care has to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container, in order to make sure that the machine used is right for the load. Particular attention needs to be paid to the risk of the container tilting due to the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising any container whose centre of gravity is eccentric or mobile, such as 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, great care must be taken when raising these.
A variety of methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned can be taken into consideration, but only after careful evaluation of the equipment by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to worldwide 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 sure overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best possible way.