Guideline for Crated and Boxed Cargo This guideline is based upon rules and regulations for cargo stowage and securing on board ships and is in compliance with: SOLAS chapter VI and VII. Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (latest edition). The reason for this guideline is to avoid particular hazards to the crew or vessel, as well as preventing damage to the cargo itself. Our philosophy behind this is simple: your cargo is our main concern. The picture above illustrates the reason for the required lashing standard for rolltrailer cargo. Vessels often experience 22 degrees of rolling and may encounter up to 35 degrees of rolling in heavy seas. Elements to be considered by the shipper, forwarding agents and customers: Shippers, forwarding agents and customers or any other party involved presenting cargo inside crates or boxes, shall appreciate that such items can be subjected to forces of great magnitude, especially in severe weather conditions.
The risk of cargo damage increases dramatically if the crate / box is badly packed (unsatisfactory stored and secured inside the crate / box) or the crate / box itself is not solid enough in relation to the cargo inside. To ensure safety on board, Höegh Autoliners requires that all crated / boxed parts and static cargo have the following: All movable parts must be secured mechanically Static cargo inside a box / crate shall be adequately secured to prevent any movement or loose items during cargo operation and sea transportation. Packing to be designed and capable of sustaining all forces exposed to during sea transportation and cargo handling. Upon request; drawings/illustration/explanation must be presented to HA Marking of each piece's weight. Marking of center of gravity on cargo greater than 1 MT Marking of lashing, sling and fork lift points on cargo greater than 1 MT.Marking of safe stacking loads on cargo greater than 1 MT Marking if fragile; keep dry; or side up Capable to be lashed at a height at or above the center of gravity Lashing capacity which is capable to withstand forces of at least equal to the total weight of the cargo on each side (2 sides - port and starboard) and allow for equal distribution of such forces from at least 4 points. All contents inside box / crate to be accounted for, and packing list to be attached Delivered and available for terminal preparation according to Höegh Autoliners local requirements. Crane hire or other preparation needs may require earlier delivery. It is recommended that Höegh Autoliners representative is contacted for coordination. For crated / boxed: Static cargo weight greater than 10 MT: Direct access to the packed unit for lashing (at or above center of gravity) Crate to be of sufficient strength to allow forklift handling. Each crate/box to have inspection hatch. Shipper's Cargo Stowage and Securing Declaration provided to Höegh Autoliners Representative prior to booking. For crated / boxed: Static cargo weight greater than 50 MT: An Equipment design / drawing plan shall be provided to Höegh Autoliners Representative prior to booking. Plan shall contain markings for lashing point's location and mean safe load. The Company reserves the right to refuse cargo that is considered unsafe and/or not in compliance with lashing requirements.
Cargo weight greater than 10 MT NOTE! 3 If the nature of the cargo prevents direct lashing to the goods, the crate must be constructed to meet the following requirements: Strong and solid frame Lashing points Upper and side frames to withstand the lashing force to be used to secure the cargo. A solid bottom frame (metal or strong timber). Goods to be bolted to the frame. Lashing points in upper and lower part of the frame. Upper lashing points not to be lower than the center of gravity. Center of gravity MAFI
The following pictures and illustrations demonstrates how to construct crates in order to meet the IMO regulations. Solid bottom frame with lashing points. Solid crate with external lashing points on top. Example of a crate frame which is solid enough to attach lashing points on to the crate itself.
Cargo of all weights to be adequately stored and secured inside crate / box It is extremely important to adequately secure the cargo inside each box / crate.