Cargo Securing Methods

Cargo Securing Method Using Ratchet Lashing

Ratchet lashing is a securing system made of polyester webbing that is tightened using a ratchet tensioner. This system is designed to provide high, stable, and easily controlled tension. Its tensile capacity can reach 1–10 tons depending on the WLL.

How a Ratchet Tensioner Works

The ratchet tensioner operates using a gear mechanism that locks the webbing with every movement of the handle. This mechanism:

• allows incremental tightening,
• ensures precise tension adjustment,
• prevents slipping or loosening.

Consistent tension is crucial for large loads that are prone to shifting.

Advantages of Ratchet Lashing Compared to Other Securing Tools

The advantages include:

• strong yet lightweight,
• easy to operate by a single person,
• does not damage the surface of the cargo,
• resistant to weather, humidity, and light abrasion.

Unlike heavy steel chains, ratchet lashing is more efficient for medium to large loads.

Applications of Ratchet Lashing in the Transportation Industry

Its applications include:

• transporting heavy equipment,
• securing containers on trucks,
• shipping industrial machinery,
• mounting cargo on flatbed trailers.

Common Mistakes When Using Ratchet Lashing

Common mistakes include:

• using torn or worn webbing,
• incorrectly determining the WLL,
• failing to lock the ratchet correctly,
• not distributing tie-down points properly.

Using Webbing Slings for Cargo Securing

Webbing slings are made from synthetic materials such as polyester (PES) or nylon (PA). These materials have the following characteristics:

• flexible,
• non-abrasive,
• resistant to moisture,
• lightweight yet strong,
• does not damage cargo surfaces.

Compared to steel chains, webbing slings provide more even pressure distribution, making them ideal for sensitive items that require extra protection.

When to Use Webbing Slings

Webbing slings should be used when:

• the load has a smooth surface,
• the load is easily scratched,
• the cargo requires soft and stable pressure,
• a securing tool that conforms to the shape of the load is needed.

Examples of loads ideally secured with webbing slings:

• glass materials,
• large electronics,
• fine-finished furniture,
• precision machine components.

Examples of Sensitive Cargo Suitable for Webbing

The following items have a high risk of damage if secured with hard materials such as chains:

• industrial monitors,
• glass panels,
• laboratory equipment,
• automotive components with gloss finishing.

With a webbing sling, the cargo surface remains protected because the securing tool has no sharp pressure points.

How to Inspect Webbing Sling Condition

Before use, ensure the webbing sling:

• has no tears,
• is not severely twisted,
• is not burned or exposed to chemicals,
• has a readable WLL (Working Load Limit) label,
• has undamaged reinforced stitching (eye reinforcement).

Using an unfit sling can reduce its strength by up to 50%.

Risks if Webbing Slings Are Used Incorrectly

Common mistakes include:

• choosing a WLL lower than the load weight,
• forcing the sling to pull from sharp angles,
• securing the sling over unprotected metal edges,
• failing to perform routine inspections.

Such errors can cause the sling to break, the load to fall, and lead to workplace accidents.

Securing with Steel Chains

Steel chains are used when the load is extremely heavy and requires securing equipment with maximum durability. Common applications include:

• heavy equipment such as excavators, forklifts, loaders,
• construction materials such as rolled steel, large pipes, steel beams,
• large industrial machinery.

Steel chains offer the highest tensile strength among all securing methods.

Tensile Strength and Material Durability

Industrial chains come in classifications such as:

• Grade 70,
• Grade 80,
• Grade 100.

Grade 100, for example, provides up to 40% greater strength than lower grades. Their durability includes resistance to:

• high temperatures,
• rough abrasion,
• exposure to industrial chemicals,
• impact and shock loads.

Types of Chains and Locking Components (Hooks, Clamps)

In a steel chain system, accessories such as:

• clevis grab hooks,
• sling hooks,
• lever binders,
• chain tensioners

are used to hold and lock the load. Each locking component has its own WLL rating that must match the load weight.

Steel Chain Maintenance and Inspection

Inspections must be performed on:

• links that are cracked,
• severe rust,
• deformation caused by impact,
• hooks that cannot close properly.

Damaged chains must be replaced immediately due to the very high risk of failure.

Case Study: Using Steel Chains for Heavy Equipment

For transporting an 18-ton excavator, the following were used:

• Grade 80 chains with a WLL of 5.3 tons per leg,
• a total of 4 securing legs,
• securing points placed on the excavator’s lower frame.

Result: the load remained stable throughout the long-distance transport without shifting.

Packing and Load Arrangement Techniques

Proper load distribution ensures:

• the center of mass remains centered,
• pressure is not concentrated on one side,
• the vehicle stays balanced.

Without proper load distribution, the risk of rollover increases by up to 30%.

Use of Protective Materials (Foam, Carton, Blocking-Bar)

Common protective materials include:

• foam pads for fragile items,
• corrugated cartons for item separation,
• blocking bars to lock cargo position inside the truck,
• dunnage bags to fill empty spaces in containers.

All are designed to prevent cargo shifting.

Filling Empty Spaces to Prevent Shifting

Empty spaces are the main cause of cargo movement. Filling can be done using:

• airbags,
• styrofoam pads,
• wooden blocks,
• rubber stoppers.

This creates lateral pressure that keeps the cargo in place.

Examples of Arranging Irregular-Shaped Loads

For irregular loads such as natural stone or machine components:

• place larger items at the bottom,
• fill gaps with blocking materials,
• use a combination of ratchet lashing + proper packing,
• ensure even weight distribution for stability.

Packing Standards for Land and Sea Transportation

Land transportation refers to:

• the Load Restraint Guide,
• maximum axle load distribution regulations.

Sea transportation follows:

• IMO Guidelines,
• CSC Container Standard,
• International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) regulations for hazardous cargo.