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40′ Open Top Container Project Shipment

Lighthouse Containers was contracted to attend to the supply and delivery of 9 x 40’ Open Top Shipping Containers for an ex works SOC project shipment of fabricated steel structures, for the assembly of a brewery warehouse, in Addis Abba, Ethiopia.

The steel structures were supplied and live loaded ex works from the manufacturer in Pietermaritzburg for shipment from Durban Port with MSC for discharge in Djibouti Port.

40′ Open Top Container

Unlike standard containers, which have fixed roofs, a 40′ Open Top container, is a specialized heavy duty shipping container with a removable tarpaulin roof assembly. They are an essential part of project logistics, as these containers are designed for loading heavy, or irregularly shaped items, allowing for loading from the top using cranes or other heavy-lifting equipment, for cargo which cannot fit or be loaded through the regular container doors.

This container type has a removable tarpaulin cover and moveable rear top rail enabling the container to be loaded from above.

Specifically designed to carry heavy cargo that is best loaded from above or for cargo that exceeds the height of the container commonly known as “out of gauge”

Removable tarpaulin, and removable roof bows with a swinging header to facilitate easier loading operations.

The SOC consignee, Kegna Beverage S.C awarded the German consulting company Brewtech GmBh Brewery to oversee the feasibility study, development, design and construction of The Kegna Brewery Plant in Ginchi Town, 83km west of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia.

The Kegna Brewery plant, occupying 101ha of land, will produce beer, juice, bottled water and soft drinks. At full capacity, the plant will produce three million hectolitres a year and create job opportunities for 3,500 people

Kegna Beverage S.C, signed a deal with a German company Krones AG for the supply and installation of brewery machineries.

Packing a 40′ Open Top Container Whilst on a Truck

Due to time and space constraints, the containers were “Live Loaded” performed by packing and loading the Open Top container whilst on the truck chassis, with an overhead crane to handle the large pieces of fabricated steel. The loading time was priority and the safe handling and loading of the cargo had to ensure that the loading plan was followed.

Utilising a crane, to vertically lower the heaviest items, loaded first, to ensure a low centre of gravity and maintain stability during both loading and transport.

Use Lashing and Dunnage: Secure the steel with strong lashing straps and use dunnage to prevent movement. Proper securing is crucial to avoid damage to the cargo and ensure road safety.

Even Distribution: Distribute the weight evenly across the container to avoid imbalances that could affect the truck’s handling on the road.

Monitor Weight Limits: Continuously monitor the weight as you load to avoid exceeding the legal weight limits for road transport.

Protect with Tarpaulin: Once the steel is loaded, cover the top of the container with the waterproof tarpaulin. Make sure it is tightly fastened to protect against weather conditions.

Document the Process: Keep detailed records of the loading process, including weights, securing methods, and inspections, to ensure compliance with regulations and for future reference.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that all shipments comply with international shipping regulations, including proper documentation, labelling, and safety standards.

Final Inspections and Documentation: Before fitting the container seals, conduct a final inspection to ensure that the container doors are properly aligned and that the locking mechanisms are in good working order. For this shipment the containers doors were sealed with a Bolt Container Seal.

Bolt Container Seal: These are high-security robust seals designed to prevent unauthorized access, consisting of a metal bolt and a locking mechanism. The fastened tarpaulin was secured with a separate pull through cable seal. Each seal has a unique identification number.

Upon completion of the Live Loading the trucks departed with the Full Container Loads from the suppliers premises for the Durban Container Terminal via the weighbridge.

The Benefits of Using a 40′ Open Top Container

When it comes to shipping large, heavy, or uniquely shaped items like fabricated steel, a 40′ Open Top container offers distinct advantages over standard containers.

Designed with an open roof, these containers are versatile and practical for a variety of specialized shipping needs.

Here’s why they might be the perfect solution for your next project shipment:

1. Easy Loading and Unloading

Top-Loading Access: The open roof allows cargo to be loaded and unloaded vertically, making it easier to handle items that are too tall or bulky for standard containers. This is particularly useful when using cranes or other heavy lifting equipment.
Accommodating Large Items: Fabricated steel components often come in irregular shapes or sizes that don’t fit neatly into a standard container. The open top provides the flexibility to load oversized items without worrying about height restrictions.

2. Versatility in Cargo Handling

Ideal for Out-of-Gauge Cargo: For cargo that exceeds the standard height of a closed container, a 40′ Open Top container is the ideal choice. The open roof can be covered with a removable tarpaulin, allowing for the secure transport of tall items without compromising on protection.
Adaptable to Various Shipping Needs: Whether you’re transporting machinery, construction materials, or fabricated steel, the 40′ Open Top container can adapt to different types of cargo, making it a versatile option for various industries.

3. Enhanced Protection

Secure and Weatherproof: Although the container has an open top, the cargo can be covered with a heavy-duty tarpaulin that protects it from the elements. This ensures that even sensitive cargo remains safe during transit.
Robust Construction: Like other shipping containers, 40′ Open Top containers are built to withstand rough handling and harsh environmental conditions, offering excellent durability and security for your cargo.

4. Cost-Effective for Specialized Shipments

Efficient Use of Space: The ability to load large or awkwardly shaped items without disassembling them saves time and labour costs. This efficiency can lead to overall cost savings in the shipping process.
Reduced Handling Risks: Loading and unloading via the top reduces the need for complex manoeuvring, minimizing the risk of damage to both the cargo and the container.

5. Flexibility in Transport

Compatibility with Different Transport Modes: 40′ Open Top containers are compatible with various modes of transport, including trucks, trains, and ships. This flexibility allows for seamless transitions between different stages of the supply chain.
Easy Integration into Logistics Chains: These containers can be easily stacked and handled at ports and terminals, fitting smoothly into existing logistics and transportation systems.

The Role of Weighbridges in Shipping Heavy Cargo

When transporting heavy and bulky items such as fabricated steel, accurately determining the weight of your cargo is essential. This is where weighbridges come into play. A weighbridge is a large set of scales, often built into a roadway, used to weigh entire vehicles and their loads.

For project shipments, using a weighbridge ensures that your cargo complies with legal weight limits and helps in planning the vessel stow plan.

Upon completion of determining the Post-Loading Weight, the SOLAS VGM (Verified Gross Mass) declaration of the accurate gross mass of a packed container could be provided to the shipping line for their vessel loading plan and the Full Containers could continue to the Durban Container Terminal to meet the vessel stack dates.

Vessel Stack Dates

Vessel stack dates refer to the specific time frame during which containers must be delivered to the port and stacked for loading onto a vessel.

This window is carefully scheduled to optimize the loading process and avoid congestion at the port. Missing this deadline can result in delays, additional fees, or even missing the intended vessel. Accurate scheduling around stack dates helps coordinate other aspects of the supply chain, ensuring that everything aligns for timely delivery.

By adhering to stack dates, shipping companies can ensure a smooth and organized loading process, reducing the risk of delays.

Missing a stack date might mean your container is not loaded onto the scheduled vessel, potentially leading to extra storage fees or rebooking costs.

How to Manage Vessel Stack Dates:

Monitor Shipping Schedules: Stay informed about the vessel’s departure schedule and the corresponding stack dates. These are usually provided by the shipping line or freight forwarder.
Plan for Contingencies: Factor in potential delays such as traffic, customs clearance, or weather conditions that could affect your ability to meet the stack date.
Communicate with Stakeholders: Ensure that all parties involved, manufacturers, transport providers, and port authorities are aware of the stack dates and aligned in their efforts to meet them.
Prepare Documents in Advance: Have all necessary shipping documents ready before the stack date to avoid last-minute issues that could delay your shipment.
Early Coordination: Start coordinating with your logistics providers as soon as the stack dates are known. The earlier you plan, the better you can manage unforeseen challenges.

Tips for Successful 40′ Open Top Project Shipments:

Pre-Plan Your Shipment: Carefully plan the logistics, including the dimensions, weight, and securing methods for your cargo.
Choose the Right Carrier: Work with a carrier experienced in handling oversized shipments to ensure smooth transportation.
Consider Weather Conditions: Depending on the destination and route, weather can be a factor. Ensure the tarpaulin is securely fastened and that the cargo is protected.
Collaborate with Experts: Engage with logistics professionals who specialize in project shipments to navigate potential challenges effectively.

Conclusion

A 40′ Open Top container offer a practical solution for transporting oversized and heavy cargo and is an excellent choice for shipping large, heavy, or uniquely shaped items like fabricated steel.

It’s easy loading and unloading, versatility, enhanced protection, cost-effectiveness, and transport flexibility make it an indispensable tool for industries that require specialized shipping solutions. By choosing a 40′ Open Top container, you can ensure that your cargo is transported efficiently, safely, and securely to its final destination.

Lighthouse Container Leasing is a supplier of shipping containers and container solutions, supplied on a purchase or rental basis.

Contact Lighthouse Containers today for an affordable container solution.

40′ Open Top Container Project Shipment

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