Any problems which occur in these means of transport will occur in the container too. The most frequent misconception is to view the container as a replacement for packaging, an error which repeatedly causes major losses or even jeopardizes the means of transport. The fact that, for example, a standard container is being used does not make it possible to cut down on either load/cargo securing measures or packaging.
The one exception to this is the stackability of packages. Since the container acts as a "hold" which has been designed so as to be carried in stacks in ships, packaging requirements can be simplified in that the packaging need now only be intended to withstand the stack pressures within the interior of a single container, rather than the stack pressures of 8 to 10 m of overstowed cargo in the ship's hold.
This only applies to goods which are only transported in a container and do not undergo any pre- or post-carriage operations.
If, due to their mass or dimensions, packages are not overstowed in the container, packaging requirements are simplified as the packages are not exposed to any stack pressure. In this case, the packaging serves "only" to protect the cargo and, if necessary, to permit cargo securing.
Packaging, stowage and cargo securing in the container must be carried out such that they
- can withstand the stresses of each individual leg of the journey and
- can withstand the stresses of the individual means of transport used during the various legs of the journey.
However, when containers are being packed, higher levels of stress frequently occur than was the case with conventional packing. Since closed standard containers are very frequently selected on cost grounds, goods have to be pushed into the containers and pulled out again during stripping (unpacking) due to their dimensions of mass. This is necessary because crane packing is not possible or the floor loading capacity would be exceeded if industrial conveying equipment were to be used.