LLS Loading Lashing & Securing

Loading

Loading is the process of arranging and distributing goods within a transport vehicle (truck, container, or ship) to ensure balance and efficiency.

• Weight Distribution: Spread the load evenly across the axles or container to prevent tipping or mechanical strain.
• Stability: Keep the centre of gravity as low as possible. Containers or flatracks should be loaded centrally on chocks to spread the weight of cargo. Items should be placed close to the vehicle's bulkhead to prevent forward movement.
• Stacking: Ensure lower layers can support the weight of higher layers. Use pallets or separating materials between stacked items like drums.

Lashing

Lashing involves using physical materials (straps) to fasten the cargo to the transport platform, preventing it from shifting or sliding. Common materials include webbing straps, chains, ropes, wires, and nets. Our main methods consisit of the core directional lashing methods which are longitudinal and transverse lashing to meet regulations.

Longitudinal Lashing prevents cargo from sliding forward or backward (along the length of the vehicle/container) during acceleration, braking, or sudden stops. Critical for heavy or high-center-of-gravity loads.

• Application: Lashings are attached along the length of the flat rack/container, connecting the cargo to front/rear anchor points (e.g., corner castings, lashing rings, or deck eyes).
• Common Techniques:
  • Direct lashing: Straps/chains run straight from the cargo to opposite end anchors, creating tension along the longitudinal axis.
  • Loop lashing: A single lashing forms a loop around the cargo and anchors at both ends, distributing force evenly.
  • Combination with blocking/bracing: Often paired with wooden blocks or metal stops at the base of the cargo to add physical resistance to forward/backward movement.
• Protection: We always use edge protectors or sleeves to prevent sharp cargo edges from damaging web lashings.

Transverse Lashing prevents cargo from shifting side-to-side (across the width of the vehicle/container) during cornering, lane changes, or crosswinds. Essential for loads that are wide or unstable laterally.

• Application: Lashings are positioned across the width, attaching the cargo to left/right anchor points on the flat rack/container sides.
• Common Techniques:
  • Cross lashing: Two lashings cross each other diagonally over the cargo (e.g., from left front to right rear, right front to left rear), creating a stable "X" shape that resists side movement.
  • Side lashing: Straight straps/chains run from the cargo to adjacent side anchors, providing direct lateral tension. Often used in pairs for balance.
  • Top-over lashing: Lashings pass over the top of the cargo and anchor to both sides, pressing the load down while preventing side shift (effective for stacked or bulky goods).

Additional Lashing Methods We Use

• Diagonal Lashing: Combines longitudinal and transverse elements, running at an angle between anchors. Used to resist both forward/backward and side-to-side movement simultaneously, ideal for irregularly shaped cargo.
• Bottom Lashing: Lashings pass under the cargo (if possible) and anchor to opposite sides, pulling the load downward and securing it to the deck. Reduces the risk of the cargo lifting or tipping.
• Round Turn Lashing: A lashing is wrapped multiple times around the cargo and anchors, increasing friction and tension. Useful for cylindrical or round loads (e.g., pipes, drums) that are prone to rolling.

Securing

Securing refers to the final verification and maintenance of the load's stability throughout the entire transit.

• Calculation: The total strength of the lashing (Lashing Capacity or MSL) must exceed the forces expected from braking, cornering, or sea motion.
• Inspection: We check lashing points, strap tension, and edge protectors before the container leaves for the port.
• Auxiliary Tools: We use chocks to fill gaps between cargo and container walls.