Poorly secured cargo has been identified as a leading cause of loss or damage – particularly in the project cargo sector.
“Valuable cargo and project cargo can be exposed to extreme external influences and the use of traditional ratchet and strap tie-down securing systems can lead to a risk of slippage under such circumstances,” managing director of securing specialist Cargo Lash, Pooven Moodaliar, told FTW. “Additionally, cargo that has not been properly loaded and secured may break free and move in transit which, in the case of large trucks, can throw a vehicle off balance resulting in an accident.”
In addition project cargo was more difficult to secure than general cargo as it came in different or abnormal shapes and sizes such as heavy lift, breakbulk and out of gauge cargo, he added.
“This is why the lashing and securing needs intense and proper planning and management in order to mitigate the risk of damage, he said. Inadequately secured cargo could result in an insurance claim against the cargo, a liability insurance claim and potentially delay the project for which the cargo was destined. However, he said that these risks could largely be mitigated through careful planning.
“Cargo Lash works in partnership with customers to provide advice and solutions – whether transporting dangerous chemicals or fragile artefacts – by carefully examining the unique needs of every project,” he said. “We insist on comprehensive and accurate cargo information. “And only after conducting a physical inspection of the cargo do we supply lashing and securing plans to the client.”
