How do you haul a 20 foot shipping container?
Published by Chris Townsend
To haul a 20-foot shipping container, you'll need a suitable truck or trailer equipped to handle the container's weight and dimensions. A wide-arm forklift is also essential for safely lifting and transporting containers without tipping or shifting. Always prioritize safety and ensure the container is securely fastened during transit.
Shipping containers, particularly the 20-foot type, are a standard for international shipping due to their versatility and convenience. A standard 20-foot shipping container is generally 20 feet long and 8 feet in height and width. This leads to a total capacity of approximately 1,170 cubic feet. While these are the general dimensions, specific measurements can vary slightly, so confirming the exact dimensions is always good before planning a shipment.
Securing the Necessary Equipment for Hauling a Shipping Container
When hauling a shipping container, the choice of equipment is
critical. It is not merely about having a robust vehicle but also
considering factors such as the weight of your load and the
distance to be covered. Modern hauling equipment developed
specifically for shipping containers, such as roll trailers,
goosenecks, and bomb carts, offer enhanced safety and ease of
operation. Renting or purchasing such equipment requires a
thoughtful understanding of your hauling needs and the prevailing
road conditions.
Properly securing your load within the shipping container is only
half the story. Effectively fastening the container to the
hauling vehicle forms the other half. Failure to do so may result
in accidents, cargo loss, and potential damage to the container
or the vehicle. Hence, the emphasis is on using reliable chains,
load binders, and other fastening equipment that abide by
industry standards and regulations. Additionally, operators must
regularly adjust and check these ties during the journey to cope
with potential slackening due to vibrations and jerks.
The Importance of Properly Loading Your Shipping Container
Improper loading of a shipping container can lead to many
potential problems. These issues may range from damaged goods due
to shifting during transit to more serious concerns, such as
imbalances that pose significant safety risks to the cargo, the
vehicle, and the crew involved. Properly loaded containers not
only ensure the safety of the cargo but also maximize the
available space, which can drastically bring down the cost of
shipping.
There are specific rules and guidelines set by international
shipping laws that must be followed when packing a shipping
container. Adhering to these stipulations guarantees that customs
officials will not reject your cargo and that it will sail
smoothly through various international borders. Moreover, correct
packing procedures also facilitate easier and faster container
unloading at its destination. All these factors combined make it
essential to put in the time and effort to load your shipping
container correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Properly loading a shipping container ensures the goods' safety, prevents damage during transit, and maximizes the available space. It also helps maintain the container's balance, reducing the risk of accidents.
A standard 20-foot shipping container typically measures 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8.5 feet in height. Understanding these dimensions is crucial to plan and load your goods effectively.
The necessary equipment for hauling a shipping container typically includes a suitable truck or trailer, a forklift or crane for loading and unloading, and securing equipment such as straps or chains to ensure the container is safely attached during transportation.
You can maximize the space inside a shipping container by strategically planning your loading process. This often involves packing items from floor to ceiling, using all available spaces, and packing materials that conform to the shape of your goods to prevent wasted space.
Common mistakes to avoid when loading a shipping container include overloading the container, failing to secure items properly, and not evenly distributing the weight. These mistakes can lead to damages, accidents, and inefficient use of space.
