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 must be treated as loaded. In order to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions such as wind need to be considered. The term loaded refers to the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. To be able to guarantee that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the cargo should be distributed all over the container.
Having an equally distributed load 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 distribution of load in the container, the eccentricity of the center of gravity varies. It is very essential that the designers of handling machines and containers consider during the engineering process. Like for instance, when 60 percent of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the length of the container measured from one end of the equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
In order to make certain that the machine utilized is perfect for the cargo, care needs to be taken to make certain it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Specific attention has to 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 mobile or eccentric, such as 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 cargo, extreme care must be taken when lifting these.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned may be taken into account, but only after careful assessment of the machine by means of which the container is to be handled. With regards to worldwide container standards, the methods of operation are envisaged. Safety is vital in each and every situation and time must be taken before starting in order to make certain all situations are handled in the best way possible and overall efficiency is maintained.