Tension straps, lashing chains and co. – reliable cargo securing on lorries, cars and transporters
Various types of lashing equipment can be used to secure transport goods to and on vehicles and loading areas. Basically, we have two different types of lashing equipment: lashing straps and lashing chains. Both types are reusable lashings – i.e. they can be used multiple times – and they need to have an identification label. This label must include, among other things, statements about the manufacturer and the lashing capacity and the safety instruction “Do not lift”. Different lashing elements are suitable for different securing methods and loads. The lashing equipment must be chosen according to the respective securing project.
Lashing straps or tension straps for securing cargo
A lashing strap, also called a tension strap, consists of a textile strap with a ratchet or a so-called strap clamp. It is generally equipped with lashing hooks and is also suitable for securing cargo with larger loads. A distinction is made between two systems: the single-part lashing or tension straps and the two-part straps. Single-part lashing straps consist of a lashing strap and have no lashing hooks. They are used, for example, to bundle or wrap around a load or parts of a load. The two-part straps consist of a longer strap with hook and a second shorter strap with ratchet and hook. They are particularly suitable for lighter and medium-weight loads and are often used for tie-down lashing. In the case of tie-down lashing, so-called tensioning force is exerted, which presses the transport goods firmly onto the loading surface and thus secures them against falling or slipping away.
As a rule, lashing straps or tension straps do not have a predetermined expiry date. They can be reused until they develop defined wear characteristics, i.e. when they are no longer fit for use. These wear features include cracks, nicks, breaks and deformations on the ratchet but also a missing identification label. If the lashing straps display any of these features, they must be replaced. Apart from that, they can continue to be used without any problems, regardless of how old they are. You can get many different models and lengths in our online shop for cargo securing.
Lashing chains for cargo securing
Lashing chains consist of a chain and a tensioning element. The chain does not need to have connecting elements: variants both with and without are possible. Lashing chains are made of strong steel and are less flexible than straps, but are particularly robust. A distinction is also made between two types of lashing chains: those with integrated tensioning element and those with separate tensioning element. Lashing chains are particularly suitable for heavy and large loads and can be reused until they are worn out. This means that they too are only disposed of when clear signs of wear are visible, for example cracks, deformations or breaks, but also the absence of identification. If there are no such defects, the chain can continue to be used, even if it is already several years old.
Lashing chains are mainly used for direct lashing, which means they secure the load at the front and back, preventing it from having any room to move. This creates lighter tension compared to tie-down lashing.
Various possibilities
There are various possibilities for securing the cargo. In principle, both lashing and tension straps as well as lashing chains are a stable and sustainable means of securing. Which lashing material is best suited for a specific project is determined by the individual conditions. In any case, care should be taken to ensure that the label is carefully marked and legible. Slip-resistant materials can be used for additional safety.
If you have any questions about which lashing material is suitable for which purposes, please feel free to contact us by phone or e-mail.
