What is tie down lashing and what are its limitations?

The simplest method of load securing is tie down lashing. This involves placing at least two lashing straps over a cargo unit, such as a box or crate, which are then tightened to the correct tension using a suitable ratchet. This does not secure the object. Tightening increases the friction between the object and the cargo floor, which reduces the likelihood of the object moving. The tighter the straps, the greater the friction. But if there is a force greater than the friction, the object will move.

A simple calculation can be used to determine what kind of lashing straps should be used and with what force. This is the so-called pretension force (STF).

Limitations of tie down lashing

Tie down lashing has two very important limitations:

1. Tie down lashing is not suitable for extremely heavy loads, because a disproportionately large number of lashings must be used. Using friction materials is possible in some cases, but the capacity of the straps must be calculated accurately in advance and they must be applied very precisely.

Friction between objects

2. Objects standing or lying on top of each other should never be secured using tie down lashing. This is because the calculation when tie down lashing is based on the friction between the bottom object and the loading floor. When stacking, the friction between the objects themselves must also be taken into account. If, for example, steel beams are involved, they have very little friction in relation to each other and the risk of sliding during abrupt braking, for example, is very high. This therefore requires separate calculations, where a solution can be found by applying friction materials between the loaded objects.

Importantly, the lashing angle, the angle between the lashing device and the loading floor, should be as big as possible.

Would you like to know more?

Get in touch with our team

Our load securing experts

How can we help you?

Do you need help on how best to transport a particular load safely? Contact our cargo securing experts - they will be happy to help.

Contact

FreightLok

Lashing Straps

Discover our wide range of lashing straps to secure your cargo.

More information

Glossary / Jargon

Abbreviations and other technical terms explained

The new aluminum IsoLok 3073 Alu RS Track system

A cutting-edge aluminum extrusion track system designed to enhance payload and production efficiency

Raising the standard frozen food temperature to -15°C?

Will you join the movement?

Most optimal Multitemp solution in refrigerated transport: IsoLok Cool or Frigo Series?

How do you select the most optimal solution for your application? LoadLok advice