BS EN 12640:2019

What is BS EN 12640- Lashing points for cargo securing about?  

BS EN 12640 is an international standard that focuses on intermodal loading units and commercial vehicles. BS EN 12640 specifies the minimum requirements and test methods for lashing points for cargo securing on commercial vehicles and intermodal loading units for cargo transport. 

Who is BS EN 12640- Lashing points for cargo securing for? 

BS EN 12640 on intermodal loading units and commercial vehicles are useful for: 

• The professionals who are involved in loading and unloading operation 
• Logistic freight companies 
• Transportation service providers 
• Professional drivers 

Why should you use BS EN 12640- Lashing points for cargo securing? 

The lashing is considered part of the loading process, and it must be compatible with any of the chosen transport means. But it has a special treatment regarding the transport responsibility and insurances. BS EN 12640 refers to ensuring that cargoes do not move during transit or rub against each other. The constant chafing of cargoes against each other can result in packages bursting open and damaging the goods kept in them. 

BS EN 12640 also describes the method which depends on the type of cargo and mode of transportation used.   

BS EN 12640 also covers basic points to keep in mind while cargo securing: 

• Use an appropriate vehicle for transportation 
• Ensure proper packaging 
• Choose the right securing method 
• Use adequate load restraint 
• Use the industry-standard securing tool 

What’s changed since the last update?  

BS EN 12640:2019 supersedes BS EN 12640:2001. BS EN 12640:2019 includes some technical changes concerning BS EN 12640:2001. These include: 

• Number and arrangement of lashing points updated 
• In clause 3, the terms and definitions were updated 
• In clause 5, verifications were updated 
• In clause 6, testing was updated  
• In clause 7, marking was updated

In clause 4, the following content was added: 

• Vehicles GVM under 3.500 kg 
• Lashing angles were updated 
• Defined reference hook 
• Strength of lashing points updated