Securing cargo to a marine vessel is vital to ensuring the safe transport and protection of your goods. Unsecured freight is likely to come loose during shipping and poses a risk of damage to other cargo or the vessel itself, as well as opening you up to potential financial losses from missing goods.

Because a loose cargo load is one of the causes of marine incidents, it’s crucial to understand what cargo lashing involves, why it matters, and how it prevents goods from shifting in challenging sea conditions. Modern securing cargo practices are built around strict international standards designed to minimise the risk of damage, delays and insurance claims.

The process of protecting loose cargo involves lashing, a term used for the various methods available to secure goods effectively across long distances and through a potentially turbulent journey.

What is lashing?

Lashing is any procedure that secures and stabilises goods to a vessel or vehicle in a way that renders the cargo immobile during transit. In regard to marine cargo, lashing will involve fastening cargo to heavy-duty anchors, filling any gaps to prevent movement, and carrying out regular checks both before, during, and after transport to ensure compliance with legislation is adhered to correctly. 

In practice, cargo lashing involves calculating the force that may act on the load and choosing equipment capable of withstanding these movements. Because marine environments expose cargo to unpredictable weather, sudden directional changes, and strong wave impact, securing cargo must go beyond simply tying goods down. It requires the right materials, correct tensioning, load distribution planning and ongoing monitoring throughout the journey.

Types of cargo lashing

Cargo lashing comes in many different forms with particular usages for a variety of shapes and sizes of goods and for use across modes of transport. As shipping routes evolve and larger vessels carry more diverse cargo, the choice of lashing method has become increasingly important to prevent a loose cargo load.

Straps, ropes and chains: A common method using specific durable material to tie the load and secure to the vessel. Each comes with its own benefits and drawbacks, such as cost and durability, so it will need to be applied to the relevant cargo size and weight.

Inflatable bags: This technique is used when there are gaps between cargo that will need filling to prevent cargo from hitting together and damaging goods. 

When placed correctly, these stabilise the load by absorbing movement, though over-inflation must be avoided as it can put pressure on packaging. They are particularly effective inside containers where spaces are common.

Anti-slip devices: Preventive equipment to stop cargo from skidding, holding it in place. Used in conjunction with other lashing methods. Anti-slip mats increase the friction between the cargo and the deck or container floor, significantly reducing the forces required to restrain the load.

Edge protectors: Used on the corners of cargo to prevent damage to packaging and other cargo loads. They also protect the lashing equipment itself by preventing straps from cutting into cargo under tension, ensuring both the load and the lashing remain intact during transit.

Factors to consider when securing cargo

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to lashing, as each load will differ in size, quantity and shape. Securing cargo should be a considered approach that maintains compliance with the standards and requirements set out.

When beginning to secure loose cargo load, consider:

• Weight and dimensions of the load: This will ensure you have determined the strength of the cargo, and therefore what lashing is required to safely secure it. High or uneven loads may require more complex securing solutions.
• Potential anchorage points: Before loading the cargo, identify where it can be secured safely to available anchors on the vessel. Every anchor point has a maximum load capacity, and exceeding this can lead to lashing failure, so correct planning is essential.
• Suitable materials: Using the correct resistance materials will make for a more secure load. For example, using rope lashing for a particularly heavy piece of cargo may not work as well as chain lashing. 

Additional considerations include ensuring even load distribution, using multiple lashing systems for heavier items, and conducting inspections before the journey, including completing relevant documentation.

Impacts of not lashing correctly

Not only does improper lashing put you at risk of damaging other cargo units, the vessel itself, or losing the cargo completely, but the wider effects can be even more detrimental. 

• Damage to goods: Any sudden movement or change in direction will cause goods improperly lashed to become mobile and bash into other loads.
• Loss of goods: If the cargo comes loose, it is at risk of falling from the ship, leading to unmet requirements and insurance claims.
• Non-compliance: Failure to properly secure cargo can result in penalties, legal claims and even, in serious cases, criminal consequences. Vessels must meet the requirements of international standards such as the IMO’s Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing.
• Damage to vessel: Cargo that comes undone may also cause damage to the vessel itself, posing a threat to its safety and function and exposing you to expensive repairs. In severe cases, shifting cargo can trigger a domino effect, destabilising the vessel and creating a hazardous environment for the crew onboard.

Loose cargo load incidents can also lead to environmental pollution, major financial losses and significant operational delays, all of which underline the importance of proper cargo lashing.