When it comes to moving and transporting large shipping containers, making sure that you are following the proper safety procedures is paramount. The consequences of a careless mistake could otherwise end up being costly.
Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent resources out there with details on how to follow the correct procedure when working with shipping containers. Courtesy of LGI Transport, LLC, your source for shipping containers for sale in NJ, here’s a few tips to help make your travels more secure.
1. Be Certain the Trailer is Safe
When you’re hauling something as cumbersome as a shipping container, you need to make sure that all of the basic safety appliances are in order. Check to see if the brake lights and indicators are working correctly. If it has any, also remember to check the built-in brakes. In particular, make a point of examining the rear and side-view mirrors of your truck so that you can see as far as possible behind you from all angles.
2. Even Out Your Load
Obviously, this is not an issue if your shipping container is empty. However, if you are hauling cargo in the container, make sure that all of the materials are spread out as evenly as possible to ensure proper balance when on the road. Ideally, you want to have all of the heaviest items on the bottom of the container bed and lighter items stacked on top to prevent the container from becoming top-heavy. Also, try to fill up any empty space to prevent the cargo from sliding back-and-forth.
3. Don’t Load Items on Top of the Container
If you need to transport anything other than the shipping container itself, store it inside the container. If there is no room, bring another trailer to support the load. Otherwise, anything other than a tarp or sheet is liable to make the container too tall.
4. Strap Down the Container Properly
For both safety and legal reasons, you need to strap down the shipping container tightly. Make sure to double-check the straps before setting off.
5. Hire the Right Crane to Unload
When you arrange for a crane to be on standby for your arrival, make sure to talk with the hiring company to ensure that the crane used is capable of handling the container’s weight and size.
Are you interested in learning more about our options for storage containers for sale in NJ? Call LGI Transport, LLC today at 908-399-5154.