When we refer to stowing the goods well in transport, we are trying to indicate how to correctly distribute and secure the load in the trailer of the truck, so that it fits properly, occupies the least possible space, and is distributed in a way that does not involve any kind of danger in the journey.
Carrying out correct stowage means implementing security measures that prevent accidents and damage to the goods, and that as a result, no damage is caused to the truck, the driver, and third parties. There are studies that show that one of the most frequent factors that cause an accident in a heavy-goods vehicle is the poor stowage of the goods. There is even talk that between 18% and 22% of all accidents are due to the improper stowage of cargo.
The European Union, with the entry into force of Directive 2014/47 / EU on roadside technical inspections of commercial vehicles circulating in the Union, among other aspects, defined a common regulatory framework, to encourage the carrying out of inspections and cargo
stability controls, by the competent authorities in each one of the member countries. Until then, there was no harmonized regulation for European countries that defined the correct stability of a load inside vehicles during transport. There were regulatory references that indicated that the goods should be loaded safely, but they did not provide details on the way in which this loading had to be carried out, nor what the anchor points had to be, nor the means by which they had to be secured. Subsequently, and as a result of the European Union’s concern for reducing accidents in the transport of goods, this directive was applied in the national regulations of each member state. Thus, for example, in Spain, in May 2018, Royal Decree 563/2017 regarding the correct stowage and securing of goods in road transport came into force. This Royal Decree provides very specific details on the steps required for the correct stowage of goods.
At Logesta, we work together with our clients in order that the goods transported have the security and safeguards needed. Adequate stowage of the goods must avoid any sliding, inclination, or friction of the load in any direction. Given the erroneous belief that the weight of the goods will prevent its movement, it is essential to check that the load is secured, so that it does not interfere with safe driving, or pose a risk to life, health and safety, property, or the environment.
In short, unsuitable stowage in the transport of goods can have serious consequences for the transport company, for the carrier who holds the transport authorization, for the shipper, as well as for the owner of the goods. That is why all the agents involved in loading the goods must ensure compliance with each one of the guidelines that ensure proper stowage of the cargo.
Posted on January 18, 2021
