Container Handling Tips
The definition of a "loaded container" for the purpose of securing and container handling; is a container other than in the empty or tare condition. Containers should be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. To be able to maintain safety, when securing or handling containers, environmental conditions like wind has to be taken into consideration. The term loaded refers to the container's maximum gross weigh rating. To be able to ensure that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the load needs to be distributed throughout 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 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 handling machinery and containers take this into account during the engineering process. For example, when 60% 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 certain that the container is free to be handled and care needs to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container, in order to make certain that the machine used is perfect for the load. Particular attention needs to be paid to the possibility of the container tilting due to the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When raising any container whose centre of gravity is mobile or eccentric, 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 must be taken when lifting these.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned can be taken into consideration, but just after careful evaluation of the machine 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 each and every situation and time must be taken prior to starting in order to make sure all situations are handled in the best possible way and overall efficiency is maintained.