Container Handling Suggestions
A "loaded container" by description 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. To be able to maintain safety, when handling or securing containers, environmental conditions such as wind has to be considered. The word loaded refers to the maximum gross weigh rating of the container. In order to guarantee that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the cargo has to be distributed throughout the container.
In order to maintain safety, having an equally distributed load is beneficial to prevent excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability. An even cargo helps to prevent unacceptable load concentrations, and unacceptable vehicle axle loading.
The eccentricity of the center of gravity varies, with the distribution of load within the container. It is very essential that the designers of handling machines and containers take this into consideration in the engineering process. For instance, when 60% of the load by mass is distributed in 50% of the container length measured from one end of the equipment, the eccentricity corresponds to 5%.
In order to make sure that the equipment used is perfect for the load, 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 needs to 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, like for instance 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 cargo, extreme care must be taken when raising these.
A variety of methods for handling containers other than the ones aforementioned can be taken into account, but just after careful evaluation of the machine by means of which the container is to be handled. With respect to international 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 way possible and overall efficiency is maintained.