What is a Floor Loaded Container?

Ask any freight unloader, and they will tell you that no two jobs, even for the same company, are ever the same. This is partly due to the fact that there are numerous ways that a container can be initially packed, including a floor loaded option. That means just what it sounds like, that the products, goods, i.e. the cargo is loaded directly onto the container floor, without being stacked or supported by a pallet. This is an ideal way to stuff a container quickly and ‘works’ for a broad range of items such as small and lighter weight boxes, or much larger items including industrial equipment, tools, and vehicles. Understanding how these containers are loaded allows for greater efficiency when unloading floor loaded containers at the destination.

How does this method of container stuffing work? To begin with, the type of container that is generally used for floor loading will have reinforced floors. This is not only because of the weight of the individual products but because these products, including cars, are stacked, one on top of the other. Whereas with palletized cargo, which uses shrink wrap and dubbing to protect the products and the container walls, containers intended for floor loading may additionally have tie-down points and wheel chocks to prevent damage in transit to both the goods and the container walls.

While floor loading offers great advantages over traditional options, such as faster loading and unloading floor loaded containers, keep in mind that this may not be the best option for every type of cargo. According to insurance statistics, floor loading also provides better protection for the goods while in transit, as the chances of damage from cargo shifting are less likely. Another issue, seldom discussed by the industry, is that floor loaded containers are less likely to be broken into by thieves. Therefore, this freight loading method offers greater security for the cargo and fewer asset losses through theft.

Here are some additional pluses:

• Greater versatility: the floor loaded container can carry a wider variety of different types of shipments, in sizes from small to very large, and from lightweight to very heavy goods.
• As for unloading floor loaded containers, it is not usually necessary to use a forklift to unload the goods. This saves time during the unloading process and for operations managers, less time always translates into a greater ROI.

In conclusion, as with most freight unloading scenarios, unloading floor loaded containers is a task that must be approached and performed with care. However, the goods and products have been packed, the lumpers removing the cargo must be experienced, trained to use the latest technology, adept at using industry equipment such as forklifts, ramps, and pallets, and above all, OSHA-certified to eliminate safety hazards and liability. When your transport, warehousing, or operational team requires the best on-demand staffing for unloading freight, contact Labor Loop. We provide the staff and the solutions to keep your supply chain costs down and your profits up.
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