Securing containers in a vehicle: verify the load plan and anchors

A load that looks secured may still shift in transit. Assess container mass, vehicle anchors, strap labels and checks in one load plan.

7 January 2023Updated 23 September 2026

Short answer

Record loaded container mass and placement; have a competent loading lead verify that vehicle anchors, restraint-label capacities and maker instructions suit the application. Keep a photo and checklist before departure; inspect for shift, damage and lid condition on arrival. Do not assume a universal lashing arrangement.

Vehicle restraint for containers depends on mass, geometry, vehicle body and anchor points. A castor brake alone is not a travel restraint.

Prepare a load plan

Show container count, loaded mass, stack orientation and vehicle position on a drawing. Check vehicle-body and load-maker instructions.

Anchors and equipment

Verify restraint or partition model label, capacity, anchor point and use conditions. Ask a competent loading lead if compatibility is unclear.

Pre-departure check. Use a checklist and photo to record that containers cannot move, straps and hooks are correctly attached, and lids are closed.