Unloading a shipping container

How to unload a shipping container from a truck?

TO UNLOAD A SHIPPING CONTAINER AT THE DELIVERY SITE, A CRANE IS REQUIRED, WHICH IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE SHIPPING CONTAINER PRICE. THE CUSTOMER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ARRANGING THE CRANE!

Containers are 99% of the time transported on a standard truck without a hydraulic arm. This type of transport is much more cost-effective and saves you shipping costs. Arranging a crane to unload the container is not rocket science, even if you have no prior experience. Simply follow the instructions below, which will ensure a smooth delivery process, including the subsequent unloading of the container at the designated location.

The container can also be unloaded from a truck equipped with a hydraulic arm, but you need to be aware that the costs are approximately three times higher than a standard truck. However, this option has its limits, often lower than a traditional crane, which typically has a higher load capacity, longer reach, etc. Therefore, the cheaper option is always to deliver the shipping container by a standard truck and have the customer arrange for a crane to unload the container and place it at the destination.

Unloading a shipping container from a truck might seem like a challenging task, but with proper planning and preparation, you can handle it without problems. This article provides you with a detailed guide on how to ideally unload a container at the designated location.

Preparing the site for unloading the container

The first step is to ensure proper preparation of the site where you will place the container. Check that the surface is level and sufficiently solid. Unpaved paths or wet areas are unsuitable because there is a risk of the truck or crane getting stuck. If necessary, proceed with creating concrete footings or other firm foundations.

Arranging the crane

To unload the shipping container, you will need a crane. It is recommended to use a self-propelled mobile crane because it is easily transportable and has sufficient lifting capacity. An alternative could be a truck with a hydraulic arm, which is also mobile and suitable for various locations, but it is usually significantly more expensive. The distance from the truck and crane to the unloading location is also important. The crane operator must decide what type of crane to choose for the given distance and weight.

How and when to arrange the crane for unloading the container?

After placing the order and making the payment, you will be provided with the contact information of the carrier who will be responsible for delivering the container (if you have arranged transport with us). You will coordinate with them to set the exact delivery time, and based on that, you will arrange the crane, as well as the specific time and location. If you are arranging the container delivery independently, you will need to coordinate with the carrier to arrange the crane at a specific time and place. Before unloading, make sure that there are no obstacles at the site, such as power lines, trees, or buildings, that could complicate the handling of the container.

Which crane should I arrange for unloading?

For the proper unloading of a shipping container, you will need a high-performance crane capable of handling heavy equipment. The choice of crane depends on the size and weight of the container. A smaller crane is sufficient for a 20′ container, while a more powerful device is needed for a 40′ container. Don’t forget to also consider the distance between the truck and the unloading site. If you need to move the container over a longer distance, a stronger crane with a longer arm is required. The most commonly used is a self-propelled mobile crane, also known as a truck crane. These cranes are equipped with wheels and are easily transportable to different locations. They have sufficient lifting capacity and reach and are excellent for handling containers.

Alternatively, you can rent a truck with a hydraulic arm that is capable of handling containers. These cranes are mobile and can be used at various locations according to your needs, or you can use other handling equipment that can manage container manipulation.

Note: when choosing the size of the crane, consider how far the container will be unloaded from the trailer!

Based on that, you need to select, for example, a 10-ton crane, a 30-ton crane, etc. The crane operator can usually move the truck within a standard radius depending on the length of the movable arm and also the crane’s lifting capacity at a certain angle (we mean the radius from the truck’s location with the container to the final unloading site). So, it is necessary for the crane and truck to be able to stop close to each other or behind each other for safe unloading from the trailer.

Therefore, it is always necessary to choose the appropriate crane or other handling equipment based on the size and weight of the container you are purchasing. Thus, for a 20′ or 40′ container, different crane load capacities are needed based on the container’s dimensions and weight. Also, consider the slope of the surfaces if the container cannot be unloaded on a flat surface! A larger crane will be needed for that.

What else is needed to ensure the unloading of the container?

Securing the rigger

If you want to arrange unloading, including placing the container, separately, you need to secure not only the crane itself but also the rigger, who will lift, secure, and oversee the overall operation between the crane operator and the truck driver. Simply put: neither the crane driver nor the truck driver will move the container from the truck to the crane and vice versa. They will only carry out their part of the work.

However, securing the rigger along with the crane is not all. You also need to ensure how the rigger will get to the container during unloading so that they can lift it. The height of the container, including the truck, is about 4 meters, so you must choose a ladder or method for the rigger to access the container.

Additionally, it is important to take into account that there should be no obstacles in the unloading area and its surroundings, such as power lines, buildings, trees, etc., because the crane operator cannot unload the container over, for example, power lines for safety reasons. They have their own work safety guidelines that must be followed.

And last but not least, don’t forget the surface where the truck with the trailer and the crane operator will arrive. The access to the site must be sufficiently reinforced to ensure that drivers can safely reach the destination without getting stuck. Therefore, an unpaved narrow field path or a damp surface is not acceptable.

Container Unloading Procedure

1. Site Preparation: Ensure that the unloading site is prepared and stabilized. Check that there are no obstacles in the surrounding area, such as tall buildings, power lines, trees, etc.
2. Truck Arrival: The truck with the container must get as close as possible to the unloading site. Ensure that the access road is wide enough and stabilized.
3. Securing the Container: The rigger will lift the container with a crane. This step is critical and requires careful work to avoid damage to the container, equipment, or property at the unloading site.
4. Crane Operation: The crane operator will slowly and carefully move the container from the truck to the designated location. During this operation, safety instructions must be followed, ensuring that the container is placed correctly and precisely.
5. Location Check: After unloading the container, check if it is placed evenly and stably. Ensure that all four corners of the container are firmly seated on the foundation.

All of the above instructions are of course for guidance, so it is always necessary to consider the specific unloading site.

Proper Container Unloading Planning

When selecting the right crane, it is important to always consider the dimensions and weight of the container you will be working with, as well as the space and location where the crane will be used. It is crucial to ensure that the crane meets safety standards and is operated by experienced operators.

Unloading a shipping container from a truck requires careful preparation, coordination with the transporter, and the use of the correct equipment. The key to successful unloading is to ensure a flat and stabilized site, the right type of crane, and an experienced rigger. Adhering to safety measures is essential to protect all involved and ensure that the container is placed correctly and safely.

If the above points are not met, the crane operator may refuse to unload the container. It is advisable to avoid this. Therefore, provide the crane company with as much information as possible about the unloading site and the purchased container. Ideally, provide photos of the site or allow the crane operator to visit the site beforehand to prevent any issues discovered on-site. If the driver has the opportunity to inspect the site in advance, they can tell you if the container can be unloaded there without problems and where it cannot. It is also useful to look at photos of the arrival, road, unloading site, etc.

Self-propelled Mobile Crane – It is often referred to by different names. It is important to note that specific terms may vary depending on the region and language in which the unloading is carried out, so various local terms may also be used.

Safety Measures

Safety is crucial when handling shipping containers. Make sure that all involved follow safety guidelines and use protective equipment. Check that there are no people in the vicinity of the operation who could be at risk.

Alternative ways to unload a container from a truck: ConFoot legs

Transporting shipping containers is one of the most widespread and reliable ways to efficiently move goods over long distances. However, the challenging task of unloading or transferring a container from a truck often arises. In the past, cranes, forklifts, or other large mechanisms were commonly used, requiring additional manpower, sufficient space, and significant financial resources. With the development of new technologies and the drive to simplify the entire process, alternatives have emerged, including ConFoot legs. These innovative supports can solve many typical problems associated with unloading a container from a truck, significantly saving time, labor, and costs.

Why looking for alternatives pays off

Traditional container unloading methods have an unquestionable history, but also some disadvantages. Not every location is suitable for a crane, and in some cases, maneuvering is simply not possible. Other options, such as a forklift with sufficient load capacity, may also require a special floor, a larger maneuvering space, or a paved surface to prevent damage to the ground. For this reason, the demand for efficient and mobile solutions is growing.

ConFoot legs provide an elegant and universal approach to this task. Their patented design allows for greater flexibility, enabling container unloading from a truck even in locations where cranes or heavy equipment could not previously access. For small and medium-sized companies, this can mean significant operational cost optimization and reduced reliance on external suppliers who would traditionally need to bring machinery and handle the entire process.

Principle and installation of ConFoot legs

ConFoot legs work on a simple principle: they are mounted directly onto the corners or frame of the container, which is standardized for attaching container hooks and other accessories. The entire process does not require complex technical modifications, meaning that even a single trained person can handle the operation.

First, the truck with the container is parked on a flat surface, ideally where the container is to be placed. Then, the trailer lifting system is used with air suspension or, in the case of more advanced ConFoot models, a hydraulic system built directly into the legs.

Once the trailer is fully lifted by air to its maximum level, the ConFoot legs are attached to the container. Thanks to a clever mechanism, each support is inserted into special slots or openings. After securing them properly, the locking bolts holding the container to the trailer are released. Then, the trailer is carefully lowered back down, leaving the container standing on the ConFoot legs. The entire process is quick, logically structured, and allows the truck to depart without complications.

Steps for safe container unloading

• Securing a suitable location: Before the truck arrives, ensure a flat and stable surface to prevent the ConFoot legs from sinking and to keep the container securely in place.
• Lifting the trailer: Use air suspension or the method recommended by the manufacturer to raise the rear of the trailer as high as possible.
• Attaching the ConFoot legs: Mount the legs onto the designated container corners according to the provided instructions. You can verify their proper positioning and stability with a visual inspection and by securing them with locking elements.
• Releasing the container: Once the legs are securely attached and the container is firmly supported, unscrew or remove the securing elements holding the container to the trailer.
• Lowering the trailer: Gradually lower the trailer’s height. The container will smoothly rest on the ConFoot legs, forming a standalone unit.
• Truck departure: Once the container is safely on the ground, the truck can leave, freeing up space for potential handling, loading, or unloading of goods.

Main advantages of ConFoot legs

ConFoot legs offer a more efficient and cost-effective solution compared to traditional unloading equipment.

The main advantages include:
• Time and cost savings: No need to purchase or rent a crane or other heavy equipment, significantly reducing handling costs.
• Ease of use: The entire procedure can be completed in a short time and does not require extensive training for a large team.
• Safety: The specially designed supports ensure the container remains stable, while the well-thought-out securing system eliminates the risk of unintended movement.
• Mobility: The set can be easily loaded into a vehicle or stored in a depot and used anytime, anywhere as needed.
• Versatile use: Suitable for both storage containers in smaller businesses and larger transport companies looking to minimize handling time and transportation delays.