This chapter identify those actions and tasks that are key to the safe packing and
transport of cargo.
3.1 General
- Do arrange for a safe working environment.
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Do use safe handling equipment.
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Do use appropriate personal protective equipment.
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Do check that the CTU and any cargo securing equipment are
in sound condition.
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Do not smoke, eat or drink during packing, securing or
unpacking.
3.2 Planning
- Do select the most suitable CTU type to accommodate the
cargo for the intended transport.
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Do prepare a packing plan when deemed necessary.
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Do select the securing methods best adapted to the
characteristics of the cargo, the mode of transport and the properties of
the CTU.
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Do not exceed the permitted payload limits of the unit or
the maximum allowed gross mass according to the CSCfootnote, national road and rail
regulations.
3.3 Packing
- Do distribute heavy cargo appropriately over the floor area.
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Do observe all handling instructions and symbols on
packages such as "this side up".
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Do load with the centre of gravity correctly located in
the CTU.
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Do not concentrate heavy cargo on small areas of the
floor.
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Do not load with eccentric load distribution.
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Do not build up irregular layers of packages if it can be
avoided.
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Do not stow heavy goods on top of light goods.
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Do not stow goods with tainting odours together with
sensitive merchandise.
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Do not pack wet and damp goods if it can be avoided.
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Do not use securing or protection equipment which is
incompatible with the cargo.
3.4 Packing of dangerous goods
- Do check that all packages are properly marked and labelled.
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Do pack dangerous goods according to applicable dangerous
goods regulations.
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Do pack dangerous goods near the door of the CTU where
possible.
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Do affix required placards, marks and signs on the
exterior of the CTU.
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Do not pack incompatible goods which should be segregated.
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Do not pack damaged packages.
3.5 Securing
- Do fill void spaces when necessary.
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Do use blocking or lashing or a combination of these
methods to prevent the cargo from sliding and tipping in any direction.
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Do secure the cargo in a way that forces are distributed
over an appropriate area of a unit.
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Do secure each single loaded item independently where
necessary.
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Do use non-slip surface material to refrain packages from
sliding where appropriate.
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Do use hooks or shackles to fasten lashings where
applicable.
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Do not secure the cargo with devices overstressing the
structure of the CTU or the cargo.
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Do not overstress securing devices.
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Do not over tighten securing devices so that the
packaging or goods are damaged.
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Do not fasten web lashings by means of knots.
3.6 On completion of packing
- Do determine the correct gross mass of the CTU.
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Do affix a seal when required.
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Do include the CTU number, the correct gross mass and,
when required, the seal number in the appropriate documents.
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Do provide a packing certificate when required.
3.7 Unpacking
- Do check that the identification number on the CTU and, when
the CTU should be sealed, the seal serial number, are as shown on the transport
documentation.
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Do check the exterior of the CTU for signs of leakage or
infestation.
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Do use proper equipment to cut the seal if affixed.
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Do ensure the CTU is safe to enter. Be aware that the
atmosphere in the CTU may be dangerous – ventilate before entering.
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Do open the CTU with caution as cargo might fall out.
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Do record every package as it is removed noting any
markings and damages.
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Do remove all securing and protection material for reuse,
recycling or disposal.
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Do clean the interior of the CTU to remove all traces of
the cargo, especially loose powders, grains and noxious materials and
fumigants, unless otherwise agreed with the CTU operator.
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Do remove all marks, placards and signs regarding the
previous consignment from the exterior of the CTU once it has been cleaned.