8 Point Container Inspection Procedure

1. Purpose: To verify the physical integrity of the container structure prior to loading

1. Procedure:

• The below Eight-point interior and exterior inspection process must be done for all containers entering the premises:

Vents (Weighbridge Staff)

1. Front wall (Weighbridge staff) – Whilst on the weighbridge inspect front wall, making sure vents and blocks are visible and appropriately spaced. Look for different wall colours and blocks that are too close to the vents. Use a tool to tap front wall – you should hear a hollow, metal sound. Check, note and take pictures of all minor to moderate defects.

1. Vent Settings (Weighbridge staff) – Whilst on the weighbridge inspect the vent settings on the front wall of the container. The vents must be opened at 15cbm. If the vents are closed, immediately notify the planner who will notify the client.

See below example of a container vent opened at 15cbm

1. Left side (Weighbridge staff) – Whilst on the weighbridge inspect internal and external surfaces, including structural beams. Use a tool to tap side walls – listen and feel for hollow metal sound. Look for any repairs. Blocks and vents inside container must be visible and appropriately spaced. Check, note and take pictures of all minor to moderate defects.

1. Right side (Weighbridge staff) – Whilst on the weighbridge inspect internal and external surfaces, including structural beams. Use a tool to tap side walls – listen and feel for hollow metal sound. Look for any repairs. Blocks and vents inside container must be visible and appropriately spaced. Check, note and take pictures of all minor to moderate defects.

1. Outside doors (Weighbridge staff) – Whilst on the weighbridge ensure locking mechanisms are secure and in good working order. Doors should seal completely when closed. Check, note and take pictures of all minor to moderate defects.

1. Undercarriage (Weighbridge staff) – Whilst on the weighbridge inspect undercarriage. Undercarriage support beams should be visible; solid plates should not cover the beams if possible. Check, note and take pictures of all minor to moderate defects.

• The below eight-point interior and exterior inspection process is recommended for all containers in the Bays:

1. Ceiling/Roof – Inspect external roof and internal ceiling, use tool to tap – you should hear a metal, hollow sound if possible. Look for any repairs. Check, note and take pictures of all minor to moderate defects

1. Interior Floor – Inspect floor for unusual repairs. Floor should be flat and one height. There should be no steps or raised platforms inside container. Check, note and take pictures of all minor to moderate defects.

• Look for structural defects that will threaten the safety and security of people loading and unloading containers.

• Also check for the below:

• • Significantly bent / bowed posts, support beams or broken welds
  • Door in poor condition that prevents proper sealing
  • Holes into container
  • Ensure that the container is dry.
  • Check that the container is free from any foreign/non-food grade objects.
  • Condensation / standing water or wet floors
  • Unpleasant odour
  •  Defaced container markings

• Reject containers that do not pass the 8-Point Inspection criteria.

• Any faults found on a container must immediately be reported to a Supervisor on duty. The supervisor must record any deviations on a Deviation Report.