Load securing according to VDI 2700 – Standards for vehicle transportation

In Germany, load securing in accordance with VDI 2700 is not just a recommendation, but an obligation. Whether for commercial vehicle transportation or private car trailers – without correctly secured loads, there is not only the threat of fines, but also real safety risks. Especially when transporting vehicles with vans or on trailers, proper securing is crucial for the road safety of everyone involved.

Why is load securing so important when transporting cars?

Incorrect or inadequate load securing of car trailers can have devastating consequences. An inadequately secured vehicle can come loose from the loading area during heavy braking maneuvers, cornering or even accidents – with a high risk potential for other road users.

VDI 2700 Load securing: standards and practice

In Germany, the VDI guideline forms the basis for proper load securing of vans and trailers. It defines technical, physical and legal principles as well as practical procedures for preventing accidents caused by slipping or falling loads. Important aspects are

• Friction coefficients between tires and loading surface;
• Use of lashing equipment (e.g. tension belts, wheel chocks);
• Tie-down lashing vs. direct lashing;
• Axle and center of gravity distribution;
• Vehicle dimensions and weight.

For load securing vehicle transport in accordance with VDI 2700, lashing points must be used on the vehicle and on the means of transport that have sufficient strength.

Differences in securing car trailers and vans

Special requirements apply when securing loads on car trailers: As these often do not have hydraulic loading surfaces or integrated lashing systems, additional aids such as wedges, wheel chocks and special ramps are required.

Load securing Vans used for vehicle transportation usually have stable loading areas and integrated lashing points. Nevertheless, the following still applies: the securing must always comply with the VDI 2700 load securing standards. Pay attention to this:

• Lashing equipment with a valid marking (LC value);
• Protection of the bodywork from damage by straps;
• Even distribution of the vehicle weight on the loading area.

Common mistakes when securing loads and how to avoid them

Despite clear regulations and guidelines, violations of load securing for car transportation occur time and again. Often it is not due to malicious intent, but to ignorance, carelessness or time pressure. However, the consequences are dangerous – both legally and in terms of safety. Here are other common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them:

• Insufficient number of lashing straps. Many people only use two lashing straps – which is not enough in most cases. At least four straps should be used to secure the vehicle in all directions.
• Incorrect lashing technique. Often only “tie-down lashing” is used, although this does not adequately secure the vehicle against slipping. Direct lashing (diagonal lashing) is the safer method for load securing vehicle transport in accordance with VDI 2700.
• Worn or damaged lashing straps. Cracks, frayed edges or damaged ratchets considerably reduce the holding force. Check your straps regularly – and replace them immediately.
• Lack of friction compensation. Smooth loading surfaces without anti-slip mats are a common risk. The friction is often not sufficient to prevent slipping. The solution: place friction pads under the tires.
• Untested lashing points. Improvised hooks or eyelets are life-threatening. Only use tested lashing points with sufficient strength – both on the vehicle and on the means of transport.
• Incorrect estimation of the vehicle weight. Many people overestimate the load capacity of trailers or underestimate the weight of the vehicle. Always pay attention to axle loads and total weight to avoid overloading.
• Failure to check the pre-tensioning force. The straps must be attached with the correct pre-tensioning force. If this is missing, vehicles slip easily when cornering or braking. Use lashing force gauges or straps with a pre-tensioning force indicator.
• Incorrect positioning of the vehicle. Vehicles are often positioned too far to the front or rear of the trailer, which jeopardizes driving stability. Ensure that the vehicle is positioned centrally and in line with the axles.
• No re-securing during the journey. Belts loosen due to vibrations, especially during longer journeys. Check the tension regularly and tighten if necessary.
• Lack of driver training. Many drivers do not know how to correctly secure loads in accordance with VDI 2700. Training in load securing in accordance with VDI 2700 is not mandatory by law – but is strongly recommended.

Load securing regulations in Germany – what applies where?

The load securing regulations in Germany are regulated in §22 and §23 of the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO). Load securing in accordance with VDI 2700 supplements these legally binding regulations with technical details and practical specifications.

For commercial transporters, the accident prevention regulations (UVV) of the employers’ liability insurance associations also apply. Compliance is strictly checked during inspections by the police or BAG – including lashing equipment certificates and driver training.

Penalties and consequences for non-compliance

Anyone who violates the load securing regulations in Germany must expect severe penalties. These range from fines to points in Flensburg and driving bans. Typical sanctions:

• Without sufficient securing: up to €75 and 1 point;
• Danger due to unsafe load: up to €120 and 1 point;
• Causing an accident due to incorrect load securing: criminal charges and possible prison sentence.

For companies, there are also consequences under insurance law, especially in the case of repeat offenses.

Checklist: How to successfully secure loads in accordance with VDI 2700

Use this compact checklist for legally compliant and safe load securing for car transportation:

1. Position the vehicle in the center of the loading area;
2. Use four lashing straps (direct lashing if possible);
3. Place friction enhancers (e.g. anti-slip mats) underneath;
4. Use wheel chocks or wedges for trailers;
5. Select lashing points in accordance with VDI 2700;
6. Check lashing equipment for damage;
7. Check the load regularly on longer journeys;
8. document all securing procedures (especially in commercial transport).

With professional load securing in accordance with VDI 2700, you not only protect your transported goods, but also yourself, your fellow human beings and your company from unnecessary risks and legal consequences. Regardless of whether it is a van, car trailer or special vehicle – if you know and implement the regulations, you can drive safely through Germany and Europe.