01/08/2025
Forces involved in load securing: Physical principles for maximum safety during transport
The safe transport of goods is one of the key challenges in the transportation industry. Proper truck load securing is particularly crucial in road freight transport. Various physical forces act on the load , which must be taken into account to avoid accidents and damage .
This article explains which forces play a role in load securing , how they are calculated and what practical consequences arise.
This article explains which forces play a role in load securing , how they are calculated and what practical consequences arise.
Why are forces so important when securing loads?
During transport, a vehicle doesn't stand still – it accelerates, brakes, corners , or is subjected to external influences such as wind or poor road conditions . The resulting movements generate forces that act on the load . These forces can shift, tip, or even cause the load to fall from the vehicle if it is not properly secured.
It is therefore essential to know the forces involved in securing loads and to counteract them with suitable securing methods.
The most important physical forces in load securing
1. Weight force (Fg)
The weight force is the downward force caused by the Earth's gravity . It is calculated using the formula:
Fg=m × g
(Mass × acceleration due to gravity [9.81 m/s²])
Weight is crucial for correctly determining the contact pressure required to utilize friction . The heavier an object, the greater its weight —and the greater the demands on the securing equipment.
2. Braking force
Braking force occurs when the vehicle brakes suddenly—e.g., during an emergency stop. In practice, this force corresponds to approximately 80% of the weight of the load in the direction of travel . It is one of the greatest stresses for securing the load and is therefore often used in the dimensioning of securing devices.
3. Centrifugal force
When cornering, the centrifugal force acting on the load securing system acts perpendicular to the direction of travel , "pulling" the load outward. The higher the speed and the tighter the curve , the stronger this force becomes. It must be counteracted by lateral securing measures such as form-fitting loading or lashing devices .
4. Blocking force
The blocking force is the force used to secure a load against movement , e.g., by blocking it with wedges , loading frames , or other rigid restraints. This type of securing prevents the load from slipping , especially during braking .
The sum of all forces: A challenge for practice
In reality , several forces act on the load simultaneously . When a truck corners and brakes simultaneously, the braking force, centrifugal force, and weight add up. The resulting loads on the lashing devices or locking systems can be enormous.
Therefore, comprehensive calculations are essential when planning load securing . This is the only way to reliably overcome the physical challenges .
Product recommendations in the area of load securing
Dunnage bags- 90 x 90 cm - L1
From
€4.17*
Our original Sandax PP dunnage bags in the dimensions 90x90cm
is positioned in loading gaps and filled with air. Tipping or slipping
The load is therefore no longer possible . The inliner of the 2-layer dunnage bag is made of PE (polyethylene) and the outer skin is made of PP (polypropylene)
To keep the loads reliably in place ,
This dunnage bag has a high burst pressure.
by a high resistance to water and chemicals , which in the course of
Transport may affect the product.
Are you looking for dunnage bags with a different strength or size?
In our product catalogue for dunnage bags and airbags you will find an overview of all sizes, materials and thicknesses we can produce: Product catalogue for dunnage bags & airbags
Dunnage bags - 90 x 120 cm - L3
From
€10.35*
Our original Sandax PP dunnage bags in the dimensions 90x120cm
is positioned in loading gaps and filled with air. Tipping or slipping
The load is therefore no longer possible. The inliner of the 2-layer dunnage bag is made of PE (polyethylene) and the outer skin is made of PP (polypropylene)
To keep the loads reliably in place,
This dunnage bag has a high burst pressure.
by a high resistance to water and chemicals , which in the course of
Transport may affect the product.
Are you looking for dunnage bags with a different strength or size?
In our product catalogue for dunnage bags and airbags you will find an overview of all sizes, materials and thicknesses we can produce: Product catalogue for dunnage bags & airbags
Lashing strap, 10m, 50mm, LC 2500 daN, two-piece, STF 500, ERGO long lever ratchet
From
€19.04*
With a length of 10 meters, a width of 50 millimeters and a lashing capacity of 2500daN, this two-part lashing strap stands for strength and reliability.
What makes this lashing strap special is the ERGO long-lever ratchet , which not only embodies technological advancement but also offers unique ergonomics. With this ratchet, lashing and securing your load becomes an effortless task. Sandax stands not only for performance, but also for first-class workmanship and durability – the lashing strap is a reliable companion for all your demanding transport tasks.
If you're looking for the highest quality, innovative design, and uncompromising safety , the two-piece Sandax 10m ERGO lashing strap is your best choice. Invest in the safety of your cargo and trust in Sandax quality. 🚚 Note : These straps are suitable for use as truck tensioning straps and meet the current standards for load securing.
This tensioning strap is TÜV certified according to ISO 9001:
Find even more 50mm tensioning straps at Sandax
Is this strap not the right length, or are you looking for other 50mm lashing straps ? Simply click the button to go to our category with all 50mm lashing straps . All 50mm tensioning straps at a glance
Lashing strap, 8m, 75mm, LC 5000daN, STF 500daN, two-piece, Heavy XXL ratchet
From
€38.08*
Like our 10m XXL strap, this 8m strap also offers an impressive width of 75 millimeters and a lashing capacity of 5000 daN . This two-part lashing strap is unmatched in strength and resilience. The Heavy XXL ratchet, exclusive to Sandax, gives this lashing strap unparalleled security. With an STF value of 500 daN, it enables comfortable and powerful securing of your load . Whether you're transporting heavy machinery or bulky cargo, you're playing it safe with this XXL lashing strap . Invest in top quality and trust Sandax. 🚚 Note : These straps are suitable for use as truck tensioning straps and meet the current standards for load securing.
Lashing strap, 10m, 75mm, LC 5000 daN, two-piece, STF 500, Heavy XXL ratchet
From
€42.84*
The largest of our lashing straps. With a length of 10 meters , an impressive width of 75 millimeters , and a lashing capacity of 5000 daN, this two-part lashing strap sets new standards in strength and resilience.
The Heavy XXL ratchet , exclusive to Sandax, gives this lashing strap unparalleled power. With a STF value of 500 daN, it allows for comfortable and powerful securing of your load . Whether you're transporting heavy machinery or bulky cargo, you're playing it safe with this XXL lashing strap . Invest in top quality and trust Sandax. 🚚 Note : These straps are suitable for use as truck tensioning straps and meet the current standards for load securing.
Methods for controlling the forces
1. Form-fitting load securing
The form-fitting load securing system adapts the load to the confines of the vehicle so that it cannot physically move – ideal for counteracting braking and centrifugal forces .
2. Force-locking securing
With friction-locked load securing, lashing devices generate a force (usually based on weight) that holds the load in place on the loading area . Increasing friction is key.
3. Increased friction
Anti-slip mats or special underlays can be used to increase the friction force between the load and the loading area in order to improve load securing through forces .
Conclusion: Strength in load securing – ensure safety
Ignoring the physical forces involved in load securing is a serious mistake with potentially dramatic consequences. Only those who understand the relationships between weight, braking force, blocking force, and centrifugal force can take effective securing measures.
Whether in the training room or on the loading area, knowledge of the forces involved in load securing must be part of the basic training of every driver and loading operator . Because safety begins with an understanding of physics .
Do you need a free initial consultation on load securing ? Simply fill out the form below.:
10-point checklist for load securing
Download our free PDF checklist with 10 important points for load securing .
Download load securing checklist