A-strap, what can it do?

Cargo securing for the economically minded This is post number 29 in a series of cargo securing advice and useful hints. These are meant for people who think economically. They do not like to waste time, muscle power, risk their health or pay fines.

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On some markets there are independent semi-vertical straps (most commonly known as ‘A’-Straps or Black Straps) in use. They are attached to a T bar or rave on both sides of the vehicle. They run in individual tracks installed in each side of the trailer or truck roof so these straps are not inter-connected across the width of the vehicle! This method does not secure the load as it has no frictional effect on the cargo at all. ‘A’-straps are not lashing anything as the straps cannot be tightened over the cargo.

Therefore, when using ‘A’-straps the cargo is wholly unsecured and can still slide and move about. The only possible effect ‘A’-straps offer is a small amount support to the cargo side-ways when the cargo already has moved and leans on the straps. The ‘A’-strap is not tightened and the locking device can slip. ‘A’-straps will not have any effect on controlling the strong dynamic forces that can quickly build up when a load has started to move. Usually in trailer manufacturing there are no demands about the roof to be used as part of cargo securing and therefore it is unlikely that the trailer maker has dimensioned the roof to tolerate any forces from the ‘A’-straps.  Exactly the same effect can be experienced if a Code-XL trailer is used without cargo securing. If the cargo moves, it will stress the roof and wall/curtain construction.

See picture below

Drive safely,

Cargo Lashing Expert