Container Loading Guidelines

I. Preparation Work

Preparation is the foundation for ensuring everything goes smoothly down the line.

  1. Know Your Cargo Details:

    • Dimensions, weight, and volume: Measure accurately so you can figure out the right container type and how many you’ll need, plus plan the loading layout.
    • Type of goods: Are they general cargo, hazardous materials, refrigerated goods, overweight/oversize items, or high-value stuff? Different cargoes have different rules.
    • Packaging: Make sure it’s sturdy enough for long-haul transport and multiple handlings. Wooden crates or pallets need to meet the importing country’s fumigation requirements (like the IPPC mark).
    • Special needs: Does it require moisture protection, shock resistance, ventilation, hanging, etc.?

  2. Pick the Right Container:

    • Sizes: Mostly 20-foot standard (GP), 40-foot standard (GP), or 40-foot high cube (HC/HQ).

    • Types:

      • Standard dry container (GP): For most regular cargo.
      • High cube (HC/HQ): Great for lightweight bulky items or taller cargo.
      • Open top (OT): For oversized height loads that need to be craned in from the top.
      • Flat rack (FR): For super long, wide, or heavy oversized pieces.
      • Reefer (RF): For temperature-controlled goods.
      • Garment container (hanger): Equipped with hanging bars for clothing.

  3. Inspect the Container:

    • Exterior check: Look for obvious damage, dents, holes, or deformation.

    • Interior check:

      • Clean and dry: No debris, oil stains, moisture, or odors.
      • Structurally sound: Walls, roof, and floor intact with no holes or cracks in corners.
      • Good seal: Door gaskets in good shape and doors close tightly.
      • Strong enough: Floor and corner posts can handle the load.
      • Document everything: If there’s any issue, report it to the carrier (shipping line) right away, get a replacement, and take photos/records to avoid disputes later.

II. Loading Operations

This is the most critical part—it directly affects cargo safety.

  1. If the customer’s order has mixed sizes/volumes and you’re not sure everything will fit, confirm priorities with them upfront.

  2. Before loading, wipe off any dust from the product packaging and sweep the container floor clean. Cartons should be oriented opening-up, and never step directly on the packaging—no footprints allowed.

  3. Basic Principles:

    • Even weight distribution: Spread the weight evenly across the floor. Never go “heavy on one end, light on the other.” Put heavy items on the bottom, lighter ones on top. Uneven distribution can cause the container to tip during lifting or transport—leading to serious accidents.
    • Low and centered center of gravity: Keep the heavy stuff low and as close to the center as possible for stability.
    • Tight and secure—no gaps: No space between cargo pieces or between cargo and walls. Use fillers like airbags, foam, wood blocks, or cardboard for bracing, padding, and support to prevent shifting, bumping, or collapsing in transit.
    • No overloading: The container door lists Max Gross Weight, Tare Weight, and Payload (Net Weight). Never exceed the max gross, and remember road weight limits too.
    • No eccentric loading: Avoid imbalance front-to-back or side-to-side.

  4. Practical Loading Tips:

    • Solid base layer: Use pallets or dunnage wood to create a stable bottom and make forklift access easier.

    • Neat stacking: Use a “bricklay” interlocking pattern for better stability.

    • Maximize space: Fill it as much as possible without compromising safety or weight limits. For lightweight bulky cargo, you can compress a bit—as long as it doesn’t damage the goods.

    • Securing and lashing:

      • Use straps, ropes, or steel cables tied to the container’s lashing rings.
      • Add wooden braces or support poles for lateral or longitudinal support.
      • For heavy or irregular-shaped items, use professional securing materials.

    • Special Cargo Handling:

      • Liquids: Make sure barrels are sealed tight, stand them upright, and leave room for expansion.
      • Fragile items: Clearly mark “FRAGILE,” place on top, and surround with plenty of cushioning.
      • Hazardous materials: Strictly follow the IMDG Code, use approved containers, apply proper hazmat labels, and have MSDS paperwork ready.

  5. Safety Reminders:

    • Personal protection: Wear hard hats, safety shoes, and other PPE while loading.
    • Safe handling: Use the right equipment (forklifts, etc.), and coordinate carefully when lifting manually.
    • Inside the container: Keep it well-ventilated, especially with forklifts running to avoid exhaust buildup. Always have someone outside monitoring in case someone gets accidentally locked in.

III. Sealing and Documentation

  1. Applying the Seal:

    • Once loading is done, the responsible party (usually the shipper or agent) immediately applies a high-security bolt seal to the doors.
    • Record the seal number—it must match what’s on the bill of lading. This is key evidence for handover and liability.
    • Double-check that the door locking rods are fully engaged and doors are shut tight.

  2. Documentation and Records:

    • Take photos/videos—crucial evidence:

      • Empty container interior.
      • Key steps during loading.
      • Fully loaded interior (showing securing and filling).
      • Close-up of the seal after doors are closed.
      • Photo with both container number and seal number in the same frame.

    • Create a loading plan/scheme: Diagram showing cargo positions and weight distribution to help the discharge port unload efficiently.

    • Verify paperwork: Make sure customs declarations, bills of lading, etc., exactly match what’s actually inside.

Quick Reminder Rhymes:

  • “Inspect the box first—know what you’ve got before you start.”
  • “Heavy on light is wrong; big on small doesn’t belong.”
  • “Even spread is key; brace and fill to stop the shake.”
  • “No overload, no offset—safety first, no regret.”
  • “Seal it, snap it, document clear—handover without fear.”

Following these guidelines will go a long way toward getting your cargo to its destination safely, on time, and in perfect condition—avoiding unnecessary losses or legal headaches.