Container Handling and Stowage

This handbook aims to provide the professional cargo officer with a source of guidance and information based on accepted industry best practice. The global economy is dependent on the smooth exchange of goods. Any damage results in a waste of resources. Loss prevention measures are not only economically necessary but also directly protect the marine environment. Surveys of transport practice have revealed that almost seventy percent of all packed containers, swap bodies, road and rail vehicles, or other cargo transport units, exhibit shortcomings in packing and load securing which can result in damage. It should be recognised, however, that even a handbook which has been edited and updated over many years cannot take account of every possible variant which may be encountered in practice, therefore this handbook does not make any claim to completeness, being less than comprehensive or perfect in many parts. Nevertheless, it is hoped that this handbook will serve as a source of guidance for the professional, and will make at least some contribution to preventing cargo damage and loss. The authors hope that it will be possible gradually to update this handbook as new best practices emerge so that it will continue to be a useful source of advice to anyone responsible for packing and securing cargo transport units.