Container Handling Suggestions
A "loaded container" by description is a container other than in the empty or tare condition, in reference to container handling. Unless otherwise confirmed, containers should be treated as loaded. In order to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions like for example wind has to be taken into account. The term loaded is the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to make sure that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the load needs to be evenly distributed all over the container.
Having an equally distributed cargo it is advantageous to prevent lack of vehicle stability, and excessive tilting, in order to maintain safety. An even cargo helps to prevent unacceptable vehicle axle loading, and unacceptable load concentrations.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the distribution of load in the container. It is very essential that the designers of containers and handling machinery take this into consideration in the engineering process. Like for example, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the length of the container measured from one end of the machinery, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
To be able to make certain that the equipment utilized is right for the load, care has to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. 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 mobile or eccentric, such as a tank container, a bulk 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, extreme care needs to be taken when raising these.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones already mentioned may be taken into consideration, but only after careful assessment of the machinery by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to international container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is paramount in each and every situation and time needs to be taken prior to starting in order to make sure overall efficiency is maintained and all situations are handled in the best possible way.