Proper Loading and Cargo Securing

Why Is Cargo Securing So Important?

Insufficiently secured cargo is one of the most common causes of heavy goods vehicle accidents and goods damage during transport. When braking sharply from 80 km/h, a force equivalent to 80% of the cargo's weight acts in the direction of travel. During a sudden change of direction, up to 50% acts sideways. Proper securing protects not only the transported goods but, above all, the lives of road users.

EN 12195 Standard and Legal Framework

The European standard EN 12195 establishes the rules for securing cargo on road vehicles. It consists of several parts:

• EN 12195-1: Calculation of securing forces
• EN 12195-2: Web lashing straps made from man-made fibres
• EN 12195-3: Lashing chains
• EN 12195-4: Lashing wire ropes

The strength of the headboard and body of the vehicle is assessed under EN 12642 (code L or XL), so check that the body suits the weight of the load.

Cargo securing is checked by enforcement authorities at roadside inspections under Directive 2014/47/EU; for deficiencies a fine may follow and the journey may be stopped until the cargo is secured.

In the Czech Republic, cargo securing is regulated by the Road Traffic Act and the Decree on the technical conditions for vehicle operation. Both the driver and the consignor are responsible for proper cargo securing.

Forces Acting on Cargo

When calculating securing requirements, the forces acting on the cargo during transit must be taken into account:

Cargo Securing Methods

Friction Securing (Tie-Down)

The most common method uses lashing straps pulled over the cargo. The straps press the cargo against the floor, increasing the frictional force that prevents shifting. Effectiveness depends on the number of straps, pre-tension, and the coefficient of friction between the cargo and the floor.

Form-Fit Securing (Blocking)

Cargo is blocked against shifting using the headboard, side panels, stanchions, or dunnage bags. Form-fit securing is more effective than friction securing and requires fewer lashing devices. Ideally, both methods are combined.

Combined Securing

In practice, a combination of friction and form-fit securing is most commonly used. For example, pallets placed against the headboard (form-fit securing forward) and strapped down (friction securing sideways and upward).

Practical Tips for Loading

1. Heavy items on the bottom: always load heavier goods on the floor, lighter goods on top
2. Keep the centre of gravity low: lower the cargo's centre of gravity for better vehicle stability
3. No gaps: fill gaps between pallets with dunnage materials or air bags
4. Anti-slip mats: using anti-slip mats increases the coefficient of friction from 0.2 to 0.6
5. Even distribution: observe the permitted axle loads and total weight limits

Inspection During Transport

It is good practice to check the cargo securing after the first 50 km or so and at regular intervals thereafter, for example at every stop. This is common practice, not a rule set out in EU regulations; the driver is, however, responsible for the cargo staying in place for the whole journey.

Special Cargo

Special securing rules apply to the transport of coils and oversized loads. Coils require special wedge supports and chain lashing, while oversized loads need an individual securing plan.

When transporting ADR dangerous goods, specific requirements for the segregation and securing of different hazard classes must be observed.

Conclusion

Proper loading and securing of cargo is a fundamental prerequisite for safe and successful transport. Investment in quality securing equipment and driver training pays for itself many times over through fewer damage claims and safer operations. We provide road freight across Europe.

Contact us for safe and reliable transport of your goods.