Dimensions describe the envelope, not the handling plan. Obtain each item’s mass, centre of gravity, support points, lifting points, fork access and areas that must not take load. Re-measure the as-shipped configuration after bases, packing or protrusions change.
Questions to answer before departure
What are the maximum packed dimensions and total and point loads?
Where are the center of gravity, lifting points and securing points?
Can the selected container and terminal accept the over-width or over-height profile?
What cranes, permits, escorts, appointments or route surveys are required?
Can the final site safely unload and place the cargo?
Before choosing the unit, establish how the load can be supported and moved
The CTU Code is a non-mandatory global packing and securing guide for sea and land transport units. It is not an engineering approval or road permit for a particular move. IMO: the CTU Code
Assign responsibility from the first lift to the final set-down
- Manufacturer or engineering-data owner: Provide drawings, accurate item masses, centre of gravity, lifting limitations and support points. Identify prohibited lifting or pressure areas and parts that must stay fitted.
- Loading, securing and carrier teams: Confirm unit capacity, protrusions, supports, blocking and securing. Name the lifting and securing owners; carrier acceptance alone is not an operating method.
- Local route and unloading teams: Check access, turns, working space and equipment. A forklift needs the appropriate capacity at the actual load centre, fork length, fork access and operating position.
One workable leg does not validate the complete route
Vessel acceptance does not establish destination-port handling, and port capability does not establish road or site access. Keep the plan conditional until the critical equipment and route questions are resolved. Do not infer a forklift rating or a fixed number of lashings from cargo weight alone.
Turn the review into an execution list
Measure the cargo as packed
Check each piece’s outer dimensions, weight, centre of gravity, lifting points and packing condition.
Compare container and load options
Assess load limits, overhang, handling and route conditions when comparing transport arrangements.
Define loading and securing
Specify supports, load distribution, blocking, lashing and the loading and unloading method.
Check the whole handling route
Review the factory, terminal, roads, destination port and receiving site together.
Useful records for the first review
- Dimensioned drawing and packing plan
- Weight distribution, center of gravity, lifting and securing instructions
- Photos of cargo, packing, lifting points and access routes
- Origin, terminal and delivery-site contacts and restrictions
Engineering and site information to request
Copy these points into your shipment file. Leave unknown items open and name the person who will confirm each one.
- As-shipped envelope, protrusions and item net/gross masses: ____
- Drawing, centre of gravity, lifting limits and supports: ____
- Fork access, securing points and prohibited load areas: ____
- Transport unit, protrusions and loading/securing contacts: ____
- Factory, port, road and site open conditions: ____
- Unloading equipment under actual conditions, space and owner: ____
Oversized and heavy-cargo planning · Storage-cabinet configuration and handling · Defining lifting and exceptional-operation costs
What the logistics plan cannot replace
Carrier acceptance, terminal rules and road restrictions depend on the actual dimensions, weight and route. No container choice should be based on approximate measurements.
Scope and content review
File preparation for open-top, flat-rack, heavy and oversized moves. Unit selection, loads, securing and the route require confirmation from the responsible carrier, engineering and local teams.
Content owner: Meiya Baitong (Xiamen) International Supply Chain Co., Ltd. · Reviewed
This review: Added as-shipped measurements, load-bearing and securing responsibilities, and usable forklift/site-capacity questions.
Requirements can change. Confirm the current rule and its applicability before shipment; this page is a planning guide, not an authority decision on your cargo.
Sources for further verification
Requirements should be checked against the responsible authority, the importer and the actual filing arrangement at the time of shipment.