Machinery Loading Safety Guide
EN 12195, lashing standards & pre-transport checks

Grade 80 or Grade 100 alloy steel chains with ratchet binders provide the highest lashing capacity — typically 6,300–12,500 daN per chain. Required for machines over 20 tonnes and all tracked equipment. Chains resist abrasion from sharp metal edges and maintain tension over long distances without stretching.

Minimum per load: 4–8 chains depending on weight

Ratchet straps with 5,000–10,000 daN lashing capacity. Gentler on painted surfaces and rubber tyres than chains. Must be protected from sharp edges with corner protectors. Not suitable for loads over 25 tonnes without supplementary chains. Inspect for UV damage, cuts and fraying before each use.

Minimum per load: 4–12 straps depending on weight

When tracked or wheeled machines are driven onto the trailer deck, the friction coefficient (μ) between rubber/steel tracks and the deck surface provides initial resistance. For rubber tyres on steel: μ ≈ 0.5; for steel tracks on steel: μ ≈ 0.3. Additional chain/strap lashing is always required — friction alone is never sufficient for transport.

Minimum per load: Always supplement with chains/straps

How many chains are needed to secure a 25-tonne excavator?

A 25-tonne excavator typically requires 6–8 Grade 80 chains (6,300 daN each). The minimum lashing force must equal at least 80% of the cargo weight for forward restraint (EN 12195-1). For a 25t load: minimum 20,000 daN total lashing force. With 4 chains at 45° angle, effective force = 4 × 6,300 × cos(45°) ≈ 17,800 daN — so 6 chains provides the required margin. Always add extra for safety.

Can I use straps instead of chains for heavy machinery?

Polyester straps (EN 12195-2) can be used for wheeled machinery up to approximately 25 tonnes, provided: (1) sufficient lashing capacity per strap (5,000–10,000 daN), (2) edge protectors prevent cutting, (3) no sharp metal contacts. For tracked machines, steel structures, or loads over 25t, Grade 80/100 chains are mandatory. Many transport companies use a combination — chains for primary securing, straps for secondary.

What is the correct lashing angle?

The optimal lashing angle is between 30° and 60° measured from the trailer deck. At 45°, the securing force utilises 71% of the lashing capacity (cos 45° = 0.707). Below 30°, the vertical holding component is too weak. Above 60°, the horizontal restraint (preventing forward/rearward sliding) is insufficient. Adjust chain/strap length to achieve the correct angle — never run them nearly horizontal or nearly vertical.

How often should lashing be re-checked during transport?

Re-check all lashing points: (1) after the first 50 km of driving — chains/straps settle and loosen during initial vibration, (2) after any stop longer than 30 minutes, (3) when crossing borders or changing road conditions, (4) after any emergency braking. EU regulations require the driver to verify load securing at each mandatory rest stop. Gonera drivers perform checks at every fuel stop.

What regulations govern load securing in Europe?

EN 12195 (Parts 1–4) is the primary European standard for load securing: Part 1 covers force calculation, Part 2 covers straps, Part 3 covers chains, Part 4 covers wire ropes. Additionally, the EU Directive 2014/47/EU mandates roadside inspections of load securing. Individual countries may have stricter rules — Germany's VDI 2700 and UK's DVSA guidelines are particularly detailed. Non-compliance can result in fines up to €5,000 and vehicle impoundment.