ConFoot – the container support legs provide a unique, portable solution for handling containers worldwide. This innovative system allows for quick unload of containers without downtime, ensuring maximum convenience, safety, and efficiency when working with containers, whether for storage, loading, or transport. ConFoot features a practical design that facilitates container handling for individuals and businesses, making it ideal in environments where time and efficiency are crucial. With various models like CF, CFP, and CFU, ConFoot adapts to the specific needs of users in various industries
ConFoot Container Support Legs and Variants
ConFoot uses a patented design that combines a lightweight structure with the necessary robustness for handling heavy containers. Each model is designed with the specific needs of users in mind.
ConFoot CF
The standard model with a carrying capacity of 34 tons, weighing only 24 kg per leg, and an adjustable range from 1,043 mm to 1,448 mm, ideal for universal use and storage of tank containers. This model is easily operated by one person, significantly simplifying logistical operations.
ConFoot CFP
Designed for loading ramps with a carrying capacity of 30 tons, this model allows for the full opening of the container doors for easy access. Its design is optimized to be positioned directly against the loading ramp, increasing efficiency in loading zones.
ConFoot CFU
A model for lifting and lowering containers with a carrying capacity of 20 tons. This model is designed to allow lifting the container from a trailer and lowering it to the ground, making it ideal for temporary storage and stowing of containers. The system consists of multiple parts, with each leg weighing 46 kg and an adjustable range of up to 1,500 mm.
Additional Features and Accessories
ConFoot shipping container legs are compatible with various accessories that enhance functionality and safety when handling containers. These accessories provide even greater flexibility and protection during the storage and handling of containers, making it a versatile solution for various applications.
Practical Uses for ConFoot Legs
Thanks to various models, ConFoot legs are suitable for different types of containers and situations. Whether you need a standard solution or a specialized application, ConFoot shipping container legs will offer the right product.
Efficient Loading and Unloading of Goods
ConFoot legs enable easy access to the contents of the container right on-site. This is ideal for companies that do not have access to loading ramps or need to quickly unload goods in the field. With ConFoot legs, you can position the container exactly where you need it and begin unloading without unnecessary delays.
Mobile Storage Solutions
Need temporary storage on a construction site or during special events? With ConFoot legs, you can quickly and easily create a stable and secure storage space. The container on legs is elevated above the ground, improving ventilation and protecting goods from moisture and pests.
Transloading in Remote Areas
In locations where heavy handling equipment is not available, ConFoot shipping container legs are invaluable. They allow for the transloading of containers in remote locations, on construction sites, or in humanitarian aid areas. One person can manipulate the ConFoot legs and adjust them to current needs.
Optimizing Logistics Processes
Logistics companies can streamline their operations with ConFoot shipping container legs. They enable quicker truck turnaround times since there is no need to wait for the availability of a crane or other equipment. This leads to lower operating costs and increased customer satisfaction due to faster delivery of goods.
Positioning Containers at Ramps
Special ConFoot leg models allow for positioning the container directly at the unloading ramp. This is ideal for warehouses or distribution centers where it is necessary to quickly and efficiently process large volumes of goods.
ConFoot CFP at Loading Ramp">
Where ConFoot Legs Are Useful
ConFoot container support legs have proven effective in various areas where efficiency in container handling is key:
- Construction: On construction sites, there is often a need to quickly and efficiently store materials or equipment. ConFoot legs allow for the creation of mobile storage spaces directly on-site without the need for building permanent structures.
- Ports: Quick loading and unloading of containers without the need for heavy equipment. This ensures smooth operations and minimizes time spent at the dock.
- Agriculture: Farmers can use containers on legs as temporary storage for crops, feed, or tools. The elevated position of the container protects its contents from moisture and pests.
- Humanitarian Missions: In crisis areas or during natural disasters, there is a need to quickly secure storage for supplies or shelter. ConFoot legs enable rapid deployment of containers in the field.
- Events and Festivals: Event organizers can use containers on legs as staff facilities, storage spaces, or technical rooms. Easy installation and dismantling save time during both setup and cleanup.
How to Properly Back a Trailer Under a Container
Driving a truck with a trailer requires skill and experience, especially when it comes to backing under a container. Proper backing is key for safe and efficient loading of the container. Here’s a detailed guide on how to perform this task professionally and without complications.
Backing Procedure
Position the truck (chassis) level with the corner castings of the container. Before approaching the container, lower the suspension of the vehicle and chassis to the lowest position.
Back the chassis directly under the container with the mounted legs until the locks of the chassis align with the corresponding corner castings. Be careful not to let the truck or chassis come into contact with the ConFoot legs.
Raise the suspension of the truck and/or chassis to the highest position. Remove the ConFoot legs. Secure the container to the chassis using locks, and you can safely drive away.
Safety While Backing
- Warning Signals: Use hazard lights and sound signals to alert those around you of the ongoing maneuver.
- Preventing Presence of People Nearby: Before starting to back up, ensure there are no people near the vehicle. If necessary, secure the area.
- Watch for Obstacles: Monitor not only the container but also the surroundings of the vehicle. Be aware of low-hanging items or uneven ground.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Backing Too Quickly: Higher speeds reduce your ability to react to unexpected situations.
- Insufficient Environmental Control: Failing to check the space around the vehicle can lead to accidents.
- Ignoring Signals from Assistants: If another person is assisting you, always respect their instructions.
How ConFoot Legs Save Time and Money
Loading and unloading a shipping container can be time-consuming. Smaller companies often need the container to be left on-site for extended periods. By using the CFP container support legs, the driver can position the container directly at the loading ramp and leave with the truck and chassis. This frees up the vehicle for other transports, increasing productivity and reducing waiting costs.
Efficient Logistics Planning
The ability to leave the container at the loading ramp for an extended period allows companies to plan their loading and unloading more effectively. For example, manufacturers can gradually add goods in an order that facilitates unloading at the destination. This solution increases the efficiency of the entire supply chain.
Labor and Equipment Savings
Thanks to the lightweight design of the CFP legs (each weighing only 24 kg), one person can easily and quickly install the entire set. There is no need for heavy equipment or a large team of workers, which significantly reduces labor costs and equipment expenses.
Design Tailored to Needs
Full Opening of Container Doors H4
The CFP container support legs replace the original pointed “Y” shaped legs with an “L” shaped base. This design allows for full opening of the container doors up to 270 degrees, facilitating access to and handling of the cargo. This is crucial for efficient loading and unloading, especially when using forklifts.
Better Space Utilization H4
With the modified design of the CFP legs, the container can be positioned close to the loading ramp or in confined spaces. No additional space is needed for opening doors on both sides of the container, allowing for more efficient use of area in warehouses and loading stations.
Stability and Safety H4
Combining two CFP legs in the front (on the door side) and two original CF legs in the back provides maximum stability for the container. The rear CF legs provide additional support through an innovative magnetic clamping mechanism. This ensures safe handling of heavy loads up to 30 tons.
Practical Benefits in Various Operations and Fields
Increased Fleet Productivity
Drivers can quickly and safely detach the container using the CFP legs, allowing them to get back on the road and fulfill other tasks. This leads to better fleet utilization and increased transportation efficiency.
Reduced Operating Costs
Using ConFoot container support legs reduces the need for special equipment, such as cranes or other vehicles for handling containers. This leads to a direct reduction in operating costs and investments in equipment.
Improved Customer Service
The ability to respond quickly and flexibly to customer needs is key to success. The CFP legs enable companies to provide better services by offering more flexible delivery and pickup times based on client needs.
Customer Satisfaction
Users worldwide praise ConFoot legs for container handling for their ease of use and efficiency. For instance, in Finland, ConFoot is recognized for its ability to simplify and reduce container handling costs. Many companies have already experienced significant improvements in their logistics processes by integrating the ConFoot system into their operations. Users also appreciate the robust construction and low maintenance requirements, contributing to overall reductions in operating costs.
Advantages Over Alternatives
ConFoot legs for container handling excel compared to traditional handling methods, which often require more workers and expensive equipment. Their simplicity and cost-effectiveness allow for efficient container work without the need for heavy machinery. Moreover, with an innovative magnetic grip for stabilization, ConFoot guarantees maximum safety and reliability during handling.
- General Use and Storage: Model CF is ideal for universal use, including the storage and handling of tank containers.
- Loading Ramp Efficiency: Model CFP increases efficiency in loading areas by allowing the full opening of the container doors, facilitating loading and unloading.
- Lifting and Lowering Options: Model CFU is perfect for situations where the container needs to be lifted off a trailer using hydraulics and lowered to the ground. It is ideal for temporary storage solutions.
How to Unload a Shipping Container with ConFoot Legs?
Unloading shipping containers doesn’t have to be complicated or dangerous. With ConFoot legs for unloading shipping containers, this process becomes much simpler and safer.
Preparation Before Unloading
- Load Check: Ensure that the container is properly loaded. Heavier items should be placed at the bottom for better stability.
- Personal Protective Equipment: Wear slip-resistant shoes with steel toes and appropriate gloves.
- Safety Zone: Create a designated area around the container to prevent collisions.
- Container Stabilization: Ensure that the container is on a solid, level surface and use ConFoot supports for additional stability.
Unloading Process
- Securing Doors: If the container is overloaded, use a strap to limit door opening and prevent cargo from falling out.
- Opening Techniques: Open the doors carefully, at arm’s length, and watch for any movement of goods inside.
- Using Equipment: Use a forklift or conveyor belt for handling heavy items.
- Safety and Stability: Use temporary straps to stabilize goods during unloading.
Safety and Guarantees of ConFoot Legs
ConFoot legs are made from high-strength steel, ensuring their durability and reliability. Each leg can bear substantial loads, confirmed through rigorous strength calculations according to standards SFS-EN 1993-1-1, SFS-EN 1993-1-8, and SFS-EN 1494. ConFoot products have undergone detailed testing in accordance with the CF EN 283 standard, including both static and dynamic tests. These tests were conducted with a safety margin above the maximum allowable load and in compliance with all relevant safety regulations. Additionally, ConFoot legs meet CE certification requirements and comply with safety regulations under the European Parliament and Council Directive 2006/42/EC on machinery.
Company and Product History of ConFoot
In the early 2000s, Timo Akela, the CEO of ConFoot, faced a challenging logistics problem. His close friend, Veikko Salminen, ran a small company importing furniture from Estonia and supplying it to retailers in Finland. With limited resources and a small fleet, Veikko struggled with an inefficient delivery process.
When Veikko arrived at retailers, he often had to wait for staff to unload the furniture. The stores lacked designated storage areas and teams for quick unloading, leading to long delays. Some stores even asked him to return the next day to pick up the empty container. This loss of time resulted in up to three containers parked simultaneously at loading ramps of different retailers. With tied-up trailers and slow turnover, it was clear that a solution was needed.
Veikko realized he was not the only transport company facing these issues. He turned to Timo and asked, “How can we get a shipping container off a trailer without expensive equipment?” This challenge motivated Timo to search for an innovative solution to facilitate container handling and increase transport efficiency.
Birth of the Innovative Idea
Timo teamed up with Veikko and his brother-in-law Terho Närevaara. Together, they began working on the concept of a lightweight and affordable set of legs or supports that would allow for the easy removal of a shipping container from a trailer. These supports were to be attached to the corner castings of the container, allowing the truck to lower the air suspension of the trailer and simply drive away, while the container remained in place for unloading. This would significantly increase the driver’s productivity and reduce delivery delays.
Challenges in Development
However, implementing this idea was not straightforward. The ConFoot team set several key requirements for the final product:
- Lightweight: The product needed to be easily portable and manipulable by one person.
- Low Cost: Affordability was crucial for widespread market acceptance.
- Long Lifespan: The supports needed to be durable and reliable for regular use.
- Safety: They had to meet all safety regulations according to European machinery directives.
To achieve these goals, extensive 3D modeling, load testing, and detailed material strength calculations were necessary. While the concept sounded simple, its realization required collaboration with many experts and engineers.
First Prototypes and Their Shortcomings
Several prototypes were created during development. Among them was a version shaped like an “I” and other models primarily made of aluminum. However, these initial attempts did not meet the team’s high standards. They were not strong, portable, or durable enough to withstand the demanding conditions of transporting and handling heavy containers.
Breakthrough and Patent of the Innovation
In 2013, after more than ten years of intense research and development, the ConFoot team achieved a significant breakthrough. They discovered a specific blend of six different types of high-strength, high-quality Finnish steel that enabled the creation of supports meeting all established requirements. The new ConFoot legs could bear loads of up to 26 tons while weighing only 24 kg.
This innovation was immediately patented and laid the foundation for the company’s future success. At the same time, Timo formally established ConFoot Oy based in Helsinki, enhancing the brand’s credibility and professionalism.
Further Improvements Based on Feedback
The ConFoot team continuously listened to their customers’ needs. Based on their feedback, further enhancements were made:
- Folding Leg Design: To increase portability and facilitate storage, the legs were designed to fold easily.
- Height Adjustment: This feature allowed for easier handling and adaptation to different trailer heights.
- Increased Load Capacity: The maximum load capacity was increased to an impressive 30 tons, expanding application possibilities.
With these modifications, the product became even more attractive to a wide range of customers across various transport and logistics sectors.
Expansion into Global Market
ConFoot products quickly gained attention not only in Finland but also abroad. They are now sold throughout Europe, Australia, and other countries. The company’s innovative solutions help carriers worldwide increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety when handling containers.
Emphasis on Quality and Safety
Throughout its history, ConFoot has placed a strong emphasis on the quality of its products and adherence to the strictest safety standards. Meeting the European Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC was crucial for the team. Through careful testing and continuous development, they succeeded in creating a product that is not only effective but also safe for everyday use.
Ongoing Innovation and the Future of the Company
The ConFoot team continues to work on refining its products. Minor adjustments and enhancements are made continuously to meet the growing demands of customers and technological advancements in the industry. The company now offers three different models of ConFoot legs, each designed to meet the specific needs of various customers.
Inspiration for the Entire Industry
The history of ConFoot is a story of innovation, collaboration, and determination to overcome challenges. From the initial idea of facilitating container unloading to creating a patented product that changes the way containers are handled worldwide, this journey showcases the power of ideas and teamwork.
With its focus on quality, safety, and customer needs, ConFoot has become a leader in its field. Their innovative solutions deliver real value to transport companies and help streamline global supply chains. The future of the company is bright, and its story is a testament to how true innovation can have a lasting impact on an entire industry.
Visualization
On our ConFoot website, you can view videos and images demonstrating how easy it is to use ConFoot legs for container handling and how they are applied in real situations.
Detailed visual guides for operating the system are also available, helping users better understand how ConFoot simplifies transport logistics and enhances the efficiency of their operations.
Streamline Your Logistics Operations with ConFoot Legs
ConFoot represents a revolutionary and efficient solution for container handling. With its robust design, simple installation, and wide range of applications, it enables the optimization of logistics processes and cost savings.
Don’t wait and take advantage of the benefits that ConFoot legs for container handling offer! You will see how they can simplify your work processes and contribute to greater efficiency in your business.
Contact us for a quote or more information and discover how ConFoot can transform your container handling.
