What are the legal requirements for cargo securing?
September 13, 2022 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Anna Sontheimer
Dear Attorney specializing in Transport and Logistics Law,
I am reaching out to you as a business owner in the field of transport and logistics, currently dealing with the issue of cargo securing. I recently learned that there are legal regulations governing the proper securing of transported goods. As I have limited experience in this area, I am unsure whether I am meeting all the legal requirements.
My company specializes in transporting sensitive goods that require special protection during transit. We have mainly focused on proper packaging of the goods, but I now realize that cargo securing is equally important to prevent damage during transport.
My concern is that I may be in violation of the law, leading to legal consequences or financial losses for my company. Therefore, I am wondering what specific legal requirements exist for cargo securing and how I can ensure that my transported goods are properly secured.
Could you provide me with tips and recommendations on how to improve cargo securing in my company and what steps I should take to comply with the law? I would greatly appreciate your support and advice on this matter.
Sincerely,
Gerda Albrecht
Dear Mrs. Albrecht,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding cargo securing in transport and forwarding law. It is understandable that as a businesswoman in the transport and logistics industry, you are concerned about properly securing your goods during transportation. Cargo securing is indeed an important aspect to prevent damages and comply with legal requirements.
In Germany, the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) regulate the obligation to secure cargo for road freight transport. These regulations aim to protect road users and prevent accidents caused by unsecured cargo. a distinction is made between internal cargo securing and external cargo securing.
Internal cargo securing includes measures such as selecting suitable packaging materials, proper stacking of goods, and using tie-down straps or cargo straps. It is important to train your employees accordingly and conduct regular inspections to ensure proper cargo securing.
External cargo securing obligations apply particularly to the transport of goods on trucks, trailers, or containers. Here, you must ensure that the cargo is secured according to the generally accepted rules of technology and cannot shift or fall during transport. This includes the use of anti-slip mats, load bars, or cargo straps.
To ensure that your transport goods are secured in compliance with the law, I recommend conducting a detailed risk analysis and considering the individual requirements of your cargo. Additionally, you should offer regular training for your employees and conduct inspections to verify compliance with regulations.
If you are unsure whether your cargo securing meets legal requirements, I recommend seeking advice from a specialist lawyer in transport and forwarding law. They can provide you with individual advice and help you optimize your cargo securing.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions.
Best regards,
Anna Sontheimer
Lawyer specializing in transport and forwarding law
