Container Handling Suggestions
The definition of a "loaded container" for the purpose of container handling and securing; is a container other than in the empty or tare condition. Containers must be treated as loaded, unless otherwise confirmed. In order to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions like wind must be considered. The term loaded is the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to guarantee that the centre of gravity is kept as central and low as possible, the cargo must be distributed throughout the container.
Having an equally distributed cargo it is helpful to prevent excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability, in order to maintain safety. A cargo which is even helps to prevent unacceptable load concentrations, and unacceptable vehicle axle loading.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity differs, with the load distribution within the container. It is extremely important that the designers of containers and handling machinery consider 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 equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5 percent.
In order to make sure that the equipment utilized is perfect for the load, care needs to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Specific 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 mobile or eccentric, like 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 load, extreme care must be taken when lifting these.
Various methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned could be taken into account, but only after careful assessment of the machine by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to international container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is paramount in each and every situation and time should be taken prior to starting in order to make certain all situations are handled in the best possible way and overall efficiency is maintained.