03/02/2025
Load securing for car transport: Safety on the road
Transporting vehicles requires special care and precise planning to ensure safety on the road. Whether transporting individual vehicles or entire fleets, proper load securing is crucial to avoiding accidents, damage, and legal consequences. In this article, we'll explore the most important aspects of load securing for car and truck transport .
Why is load securing so important?
Securing loads is not only a legal requirement , but also a matter of safety. Cars transported on trailers or vans can be subjected to considerable forces during the journey , for example:
- Braking and cornering : These generate dynamic forces that can set the vehicle in motion.
- Vibrations and road irregularities : These can affect stability if the vehicle is not properly secured.
- Accidents and legal consequences : Inadequate security can not only damage the vehicle, but also endanger other road users and lead to high fines.
Basic principles of load securing
1. Maximize frictional force
The vehicle's grip on the loading area is crucial. Special coatings on the loading area increase friction and minimize the risk of slipping.
2. Positive locking
The vehicle should be positioned on the loading area so that it can be secured to the appropriate lashing points in the vehicle. This positioning prevents the vehicle from accidentally leaving its position.
3. Force-locking securing
Car transport straps or special restraint systems provide additional stabilization of the vehicle through tensile or compressive forces. These aids must be properly dimensioned and secured.
Securing methods for car transport - wheel recesses and fixation
Vans or trailers with wheel recesses ensure that the tires remain securely in place . Additional car transport straps placed around the wheels increase stability .
Legal requirements for load securing for car transport
In Germany and many other countries, load securing for car transport is required by law . Important regulations are:
- DIN EN 12195-1 : This standard regulates the calculation of the required securing forces.
- Road traffic regulations (StVO) : These require that the load must be secured in such a way that it does not slip or fall, even in the event of sudden braking or evasive maneuvers.
- VDI 2700 (Sheets 8.1 & 8.2) : The guidelines and regulations for vehicle transport were amended in 2024. It is essential that the straps used are manufactured according to the VDI 2700 guidelines.
In addition, there are specific requirements that depend on the vehicle types and means of transport .
Product number:
00002356
Product number:
00002357
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Mistake 1: Insufficient straps or chains
Only use securing materials suitable for the weight of the vehicle. Cheap or worn straps can break and compromise the securing effect. In addition, only use load-bearing equipment that complies with current guidelines.
Error 2: Incorrect positioning of the vehicle
The vehicle should be positioned so that the load is evenly distributed across the loading area so as not to impair the handling of the van.
Mistake 3: Irregular checks
Check your load securing regularly, especially during longer journeys. Tensions can loosen, making the vehicle unstable.
Tips for safe car transport
- Driver training : Drivers should be regularly trained in load securing methods.
- Quality control : Check transporters and securing materials for wear or damage before each use.
- Documentation : Keep a written record of load securing , especially for commercial transport.
Conclusion: Safely reach your destination with professional load securing
Securing loads during car transport is an essential measure to ensure the safety of the vehicle, driver, and other road users. Invest in high-quality equipment, train your drivers, and comply with legal requirements – because proper securing is not only mandatory, it also protects lives and equipment.