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Gard Guidance Masters

2.12.9.5 UNEVEN DISTRIBUTION OF WEIGHTS – NEGLIGENT LASHING OF CARGO

There may be an uneven distribution of cargo weight on the vessel if no proper scales are available prior to the trucks and trailers coming on board. Furthermore, lack of knowledge ashore of the forces experienced by a vessel at sea may result in

  • cargo being insufficiently lashed onto the trailers
  • the cargo’s centre of gravity may be above the centre of the trailer, allowing the cargo to shift in adverse weather conditions.

    Lashing points on trailers may be too weak and the lashing material used inadequate. If any irregularities are noted the Master and the vessel’s officers should reject the cargo until it has been properly lashed or the deficiencies rectified.