Container Handling Tips
The definition of a "loaded container" for the purpose of container handling and securing; is a container other than in the tare or empty 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 should be taken into consideration. The word loaded refers to the container's maximum gross weigh rating. To be able to make sure that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the load needs to be equally distributed throughout the container.
To be able to maintain safety, having an equally distributed cargo is beneficial to avoid lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting. An even cargo helps to avoid unacceptable load concentrations, and unacceptable vehicle axle loading.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the load distribution in the container. It is very important that the designers of handling machinery and containers take this into consideration during the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60% of the load by mass is distributed in 50 percent of the length of the container measured from one end of the equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
Make certain that the container is free to be handled and care needs 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 must be paid to the possibility of the container tilting because of the eccentricity of the center of gravity. When lifting any container whose centre of gravity is eccentric or mobile, such as a bulk container, a tank container a thermal container with a refrigerating unit or a container with a liquid bulk bag, either integral or clip on, or any container with a hanging load, great care must be taken when lifting these.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned could be taken into account, but just after careful assessment of the machine by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to worldwide container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is vital in each and every situation and time should be taken before starting in order to make certain overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best way possible.