Load Handling, Stacking and Container/Attachment Selection
Handling
Safe handling means: verify the container (weight, condition, corner castings, placards for dangerous goods), confirm the spreader is correctly engaged on all four twistlocks, lift clear, check stability, then travel with the load low and the boom retracted as far as practicable. Never travel with a raised load over people or vehicles.
Stacking
Stack only to the planned height and pattern; check the container below is sound and the stack is stable. Mis-stacked or damaged containers can collapse. Wind and ground conditions affect stack stability.
Attachment selection
Use the correct spreader/attachment for the container type (standard, refrigerated, open-top, tank). Twistlocks must be confirmed engaged - a "positive indication" is not the same as a physical check where the machine allows it. Damaged corner castings are a common cause of dropped loads.
Traps
- Assuming the weight on the manifest is correct - verify against the container's actual markings and, where required, weigh it.
- Travelling with the load high "to see better" is a classic wrong answer.
- Using the wrong attachment for a special container.
Rule of thumb
Four twistlocks, one check: lift, pause, confirm engagement and stability, then move.