8.1.1       The type of CTU used for the transport will influence:

• The process of confirming that it is fit for use;
• The CTU’s positioning to suit the packing operation and timing;
• The planning of the cargo packing.

8.1.2       The CTU operator will advise of the estimated time of arrival and departure. The type of CTU may influence these timings:

• Rigid road vehicles will come with a driver and it would be expected that the time to pack the vehicle will be dictated by any time restrictions that local regulations may impose.
• Detachable CTUs, such as trailers and rail wagons may be left at the packer’s facility and the tractor unit/motor unit permitted to depart if the packing procedure is extended.
• Class C swap bodies fitted with legs can be unloaded onto their legs and the tractor unit/engine unit plus trailer (if present) may be driven away.
• Freight containers and class A and B swap bodies can remain on the trailer or be unloaded and placed on the ground.
• CTUs remaining on trailers may be left for a period of time.

8.1.3          If the consignment requires more than one CTU then it is important to plan what packages go within each unit and how each CTU is managed: multiple units might be delivered all at once and the packer can manage positioning of each unit to suit the facility available. Another option is to deliver the units sequentially so that the container operator delivers an empty unit and picks up a fully packed one.

8.1.4          In both cases planning what packages go into each unit will be important. Demand at the destination may require particular packages to be packed in each CTU. However such demand can have an adverse effect on the load distribution, on possibility to secure the cargo properly, on the segregation of dangerous goods and also on volume utilisation. It is therefore important that a complete plan may be generated for all packages and CTUs prior to the start of packing the first CTU.