Container Lashing: Best Practices for Safe and Stable Shipments

Differences Between Internal and External Lashing

Internal lashing is applied within the container, directly securing items to internal anchor points or lashing rings. It is tailored to the load’s configuration and protects against movement inside the unit.

In contrast, external lashing involves securing containers, such as on vessels or trailers, to prevent container-level displacement. While both serve to stabilise freight, internal lashing focuses on cargo integrity within the container, whereas external lashing ensures structural security during broader transport handling.

Polyester Lashing

Polyester, woven, or corded lashing is manufactured from high-tenacity polyester fibres. It combines flexibility and tensile strength to absorb shocks during transport.

Highly resistant to weather conditions, chemicals, and abrasion, it offers a long-lasting and safer alternative to traditional steel banding, eliminating the risk of injury from sharp metal edges.

This type of lashing is suitable for securing heavy, irregularly shaped, or delicate cargo such as machinery, timber, and industrial equipment. Its flexibility allows it to mould to uneven surfaces without causing damage to the goods.

During application, the strap is threaded through secure anchor points within a container and tightened using buckles and a tensioning device. To ensure optimal load stability, it’s essential to maintain consistent tension and use a symmetrical lashing pattern for balanced load restraint.

Composite Strapping

Composite strapping is engineered from high-tensile polyester fibres encased in a durable polypropylene coating.

This construction offers the combination of strength and user-friendly handling, making it ideal for medium-duty applications where firm yet flexible cargo restraint is essential.

Its smooth, non-abrasive surface makes composite strapping suitable for securing lightweight palletised goods, boxed items, and electronics. It minimises the risk of edge damage while maintaining consistent tension throughout transit.

Ensure the strap is free of kinks or twists during application for best performance. Secure both ends using the appropriate buckles and tensioning tools, and always inspect each strap for signs of wear before use to maintain safety and load integrity.

Polyester (PET) Strapping

PET (polyester) strapping is designed for high-tension applications, serving as a robust and rigid alternative to traditional steel strapping. It offers excellent tension retention with minimal elongation, ensuring consistent load security over extended transport durations.

This type of strapping is particularly effective when cargo can be banded as unitised loads or secured on pallets. It is ideal in scenarios where superior holding strength is required, but the flexibility of lashing is not necessary.

PET strapping excels when applied to uniform, stackable cargo such as beverage pallets, metal coils, or bricks.

It integrates seamlessly with automated and semi-automated strapping systems and is compatible with standard container floor lashing loops, enhancing efficiency and safety in logistics operations.

Effective lashing depends not only on strap selection but also on the proper use of accompanying equipment. Buckles and strapping tensioners ensure straps are secured correctly and remain in place during transit.

Compatibility between load buckles and strapping is essential. Buckles must match the strap width and type to maintain tension and prevent slippage. Using the incorrect buckle can lead to tension loss or failure under stress, particularly during transit-induced movement.

Buckles: Essential Connectors

Wire Buckles: Widely used with composite strapping, wire buckles feature an open-frame design that simplifies threading and allows easy re-tensioning. Their flexibility accommodates dynamic load shifts, making them ideal for medium-duty cargo securing.

Forged Buckles: Built for strength, forged buckles are crafted from solid steel and are specifically designed for heavy-duty applications. They provide a strong holding power when used with polyester lashing, ensuring maximum load security.

Phosphated Buckles: These buckles are coated with a phosphate layer to enhance grip and resist corrosion. Ideal for humid, coastal, or marine environments, they offer improved friction between the buckle and strap under tension, even in challenging conditions.

Tips for Secure Buckle Locking

• Always ensure the strap is threaded correctly and tensioned tightly through the buckle.
• Double-check strap alignment and tension before container sealing.
• Inspect buckles regularly for signs of deformation or rust, especially after repeated use or harsh exposure.

Tensioners: Tools for Strap Application

Manual Tensioners: Best suited for small-scale operations or mobile use, manual tensioners are cost-efficient and straightforward. While they require physical effort and operator precision, they offer flexibility in diverse settings.

Pneumatic Tensioners: Ideal for industrial or high-volume applications, pneumatic tensioners deliver consistent strap tension with minimal operator fatigue. They excel in environments where speed, reliability, and uniformity are essential.

Maintenance and Safety Guidelines

• Inspect tensioners frequently for wear, especially on cutting blades and grip surfaces.
• Keep tools clean to prevent debris buildup that can compromise performance.
• Replace any damaged or worn components promptly to maintain safety and avoid downtime.

Best Practices for Internal Container Lashing

Consistent application of internal lashing procedures is essential for maintaining cargo integrity during transit.

Effective lashing prevents damage and ensures compliance with international transport regulations. These practices support safe, efficient, and regulation-compliant containerised shipping.