How to lift a container safely

Home / Our KnowHow / Articles on the safe use of lifting components / How to lift a container safely

Understand the use of container fittings for lifting containers

The term "container lifting lugs" refers to hardware used to lift containers via their attachment points, known as "corner castings." These lifting lugs are specifically designed to suit the intended lifting and attachment method. At the top, they feature a lifting eye for attaching lifting gear, while the lower section depends on whether the lifting lugs is for top or bottom lifting and whether it is configured for a right-hand or left-hand orientation.

Containers corner castings

An ISO container has eight corner castings - one at each corner. These are a standardized part of the container's permanent structure and serve as connection points for tasks such as lifting, stacking, and securing. Container lifting lugs are inserted into these corners and must match the specific opening.

Container lifting lugs: small components with a vital role

When lifting a container, the lifting gear must be compatible with the container's attachment points (corner castings) and the chosen lifting method. Container lifting lugs create a secure connection between the container's ISO corner castings and the lifting gear.

Container lifting lug type CLB mounted in the container's stadium hole

Different container lifting lugs for different lifts

They come in various designs to accommodate different lift types and connections.

The choice of lifting lug depends on factors such as whether the container is being lifted from the top or the bottom, how the lifting gear is to be attached, and the specific geometry required by the lifting setup.

Some lifting lugs are designed to be inserted into the side opening of a corner casting (stadium hole). In contrast, others are used for top-lifting configurations or for attachment to the bottom corner castings (the stacking hole).

Container lifting lug type CLT mounted in the container’s stacking hole

Recommended spreader beams for lifting containers

For lifting from the top corners of a container, a container frame spreader beam with vertical chains or slings is typically used. If the container is lifted from the bottom corners, a spreader beam with a crossbar is mostly used to ensure that the lifting gear - often chains - does not exert undue stress on the sides of the container. The correct solution always depends on the specific container, the load, and the lifting plan.

Points to consider

Before the lift, ensure that:

The container lifting lugs match the container corners and are installed correctly.
The lifting capacity is sufficient for the total load (see, for example, the video on WLL) and the specific lifting configuration.
The direction of the load is correct. Lateral or uneven loading can affect component capacity.
The lifting gear is compatible. Chains, lifting lugs, shackles, and any lifting beams must function together as an integrated system.
The components have been inspected for wear, deformation, cracks, or other visible damage before use.
The container and the load are suitable for the lift. The load's weight, center of gravity, and distribution affect how the container behaves during the lift.

Do not use a lifting lug if its markings or capacity cannot be identified, or if its condition raises any doubts. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the applicable regulations for lifting equipment and lifting operations.

Select fittings based on the entire lifting task

A container lifting lug cannot be evaluated in isolation from the rest of the lifting equipment. A safe solution depends on the interplay between hooks, the container’s attachment points, lifting gear, and the lifting method. If you are in doubt regarding the choice or application, the lifting setup should be assessed by an expert before work begins.

This article serves as general guidance and does not replace the manufacturer’s instructions, a lifting plan, or a specific risk assessment.