Container Handling Suggestions
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 such as wind should be taken into consideration. The word loaded refers to the container's maximum gross weigh rating. To be able to make certain that the centre of gravity is kept as low and central as possible, the cargo needs to be distributed all around the container.
To be able to maintain safety, having an equally distributed cargo is helpful to avoid excessive tilting, and lack of vehicle stability. An even load helps to avoid 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 important that the designers of handling machinery and containers 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%.
In order to make sure that the equipment utilized is perfect for the load, care has to be taken to make sure it is safely attached to the container and that the container is free to be handled. Particular attention has 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 mobile or eccentric, like a bulk container, a tank container a thermal container with a refrigerating unit or a container with a liquid bulk bag, either clip on or integral, or any container with a hanging cargo, extreme care has to be taken when raising these.
There are many methods for utilizing handling containers that could be taken into account. However, there needs to be an assessment of the machinery means by which the container is to be used. With respect to international container standards, the methods of operation are foreseen. Safety is paramount in every situation and time must be taken before starting in order to make certain all situations are handled in the best possible way and overall efficiency is maintained.