The Cargo-Lashing Expert

Short distance trips at low speed. Do you need to secure the load at all?

This is the third posting in series of cargo securing advice and useful hints. These are meant for people who think economically. They do not like to waste time, muscle power, risk their health, or pay fines.

Earlier, I wrote that cargo has to be secured regardless of speed or distance. Nothing in the local legislation nor in standards define how fast or how far the cargo is to be moved. If we study the deceleration caused by braking, the highest peaks are usually at the end, where the speed is already almost zero. This is due to anti-lock brake systems, which allow a wheel to rotate if it locks. This system allows the wheels to lock at very low speeds, which then causes the deceleration to rise. That’s why drivers who have experienced emergency braking claim the heaviest force was felt at the end. So, when someone crosses the road in front of you, and you step on the pedal, you hope the cargo is secured properly!

Drive safely,

Cargo Lashing Expert.