Breakbulk Cargo Lashing and Securing: What Shippers Should Prepare

Breakbulk cargo must be properly secured before a vessel can safely sail.

For machinery, steel products, vehicles, crates and other non-containerized cargoes, lashing and securing requirements should be considered before booking, not after the vessel arrives.

Cargo Information

Shippers should provide:

• cargo dimensions and weight;
• centre of gravity;
• lifting points;
• support points;
• drawings where available;
• packing or skid details;
• any restrictions on securing points.

Accurate information helps the vessel and cargo team determine how the unit can be positioned and secured. The full enquiry checklist is set out in how to prepare a complete breakbulk chartering enquiry.

Why Securing Matters

Breakbulk cargo can be exposed to vessel motion throughout the voyage.

Poor securing may lead to:

• cargo movement;
• damage to the cargo or vessel;
• additional port delays;
• re-securing costs;
• operational or safety risks.

Heavy or high-centre-of-gravity units may require additional calculations and stronger securing arrangements.

Typical Securing Methods

Depending on the cargo and vessel, securing may involve:

• chains;
• wire ropes;
• web lashings;
• turnbuckles;
• welded stoppers;
• timber supports;
• dunnage;
• deck or tank-top securing points.

The final arrangement depends on cargo characteristics, vessel structure and expected voyage conditions.

What Should Be Confirmed Before Booking?

Before fixing the shipment, shippers should confirm:

• whether the cargo will be carried on deck or under deck;
• available securing points;
• deck or tank-top strength;
• access for welding or securing work;
• responsibility for lashing materials and labour;
• whether a securing plan or survey is required.

These details can affect both vessel selection and final transport cost, as explained in cargo dimensions and vessel suitability.

Prepare Before the Vessel Arrives

The most efficient breakbulk operations begin with complete cargo information.

Providing drawings, dimensions, weights and securing requirements early allows vessel owners, operators and cargo interests to evaluate the operation before loading starts. For units requiring ship cranes, see also heavy lift cargo: crane capacity and lifting requirements.

Proper preparation reduces unnecessary delays and helps ensure that the cargo is handled and secured safely.

More on Breakbulk Cargo

Further materials are available in the Breakbulk Cargo section, and the service overview is on the Breakbulk Cargo page.

Ship Chartering · Maritime Brokerage · Commercial Ship Management