Securing Cargo: A Guide to Blocking, Lashing, and Locking (2024)

Securing cargo is crucial in logistics. Securing cargo involves preventing the shifting or rubbing of cargo against each other during transit, ensuring the goods reach their destination safely and intact. Improper stowage and lack of proper securing may cause accidents and damages during transportation, loading, and unloading.

Blocking, lashing, and locking are crucial aspects of securing cargo for transportation. Let's look into these techniques and understand their significance in ensuring the safety of goods.

• Blocking

Blocking refers to the technique of securing cargo in which the cargo is blocked to avoid moving or tipping during transit. It involves the use of sturdy materials like metal\wood, dunnage bags, or securing the cargo against other cargo, the ship's main structure, or container walls, to prevent the shifting of cargo within the transport container. This technique is often used in combination with other techniques like lashing to minimize the risk of damage or safety hazards. This is important in road or sea transport, where constant motion can lead to cargo displacement.

• Lashing

Lashing involves the usage of straps, ropes, or chains to secure cargo. This prevents both horizontal and vertical movement of cargo, reducing the risk of tipping over. This can be used in combination with blocking to add additional stability, especially in situations like sudden stops, changes in direction, or navigating twisted and turned roads. Lashing is highly effective in maintaining the integrity of the cargo, particularly in rough seas or turbulent road conditions.

E.g. Heavy machinery being transported on a flatbed truck is securely lashed down with heavy-duty straps.

Types of lashing include direct lashing, loop lashing, web lashing, etc.

• Locking

Locking involves securing containers to the transport vehicle or vessel using locks. The most commonly used equipment for this purpose is twist locks. This not only prevents theft but also ensures that the cargo remains safely contained during transit.

In some cases, cargo units are attached to the ship's deck or other main structural parts by welding them. This method is especially used for heavy project cargoes, where welding the cargo directly to the ship's structure helps prevent it from shifting or moving during transit.

In conclusion, proper blocking, lashing, and locking techniques are crucial techniques to ensure the safety of cargo from the point of origin to the destination. These practices minimize the risk of damage and enhance the safety of cargo involved in loading and unloading operations. Additionally, they help maintain the structural integrity of transport containers and vehicles, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by shifting cargo.

We implement these techniques effectively to reduce risks and ensure your cargo reaches its destination in optimal condition.

Contact us for secure cargo transportation tailored to your needs.

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