Cargo Lashing and Securing Inspection Checklist

This cargo lashing and securing inspection checklist ensures compliance with the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS Code), SOLAS Chapter VI (Carriage of Cargoes), CTU Code (IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for Cargo Transport Units), and company Cargo Securing Manual (CSM). Improperly secured cargo causes cargo damage, container loss, vessel damage and crew injury.

  • Industry: Maritime
  • Frequency: Per Voyage
  • Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
  • Role: Chief Officer / Cargo Officer
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: CSS Code Safe Practice Cargo Stowage and Securing, SOLAS Chapter VI Carriage of Cargoes, IMO ILO UNECE CTU Code Cargo Transport Units, Company Cargo Securing Manual CSM, IICL Container Condition Criteria

Pre-Sailing Securing Check

Securing check before departure.

  • Cargo Securing Manual (CSM) consulted for this cargo type?
  • All cargo units lashed and secured per stowage plan?
  • Maximum Securing Load (MSL) not exceeded on any lashing point?
  • Securing arrangements double-checked by second officer?
  • Abnormal or project cargo special securing plan approved?

Lashing Gear Condition

Lashing equipment serviceability.

  • All securing chains free from deformation, corrosion, and link damage?
  • Turnbuckles tightened and lock-pins fitted?
  • Webbing straps free from cuts, abrasion, and UV degradation?
  • All container twist locks correctly engaged and locked?
  • Dunnage and friction mats in place under cargo?

Container Inspection

Container condition and stowage.

  • All containers inspected for damage before stowing?
  • VGM (Verified Gross Mass) declarations received for all containers?
  • Container stacking weights within limits per bay plan?
  • Reefer containers connected, set point confirmed, and running?
  • Hazardous cargo containers properly placarded and segregated?

Heavy Lift and Project Cargo

Oversized cargo securing.

  • Lashing calculation or engineering analysis completed?
  • Cargo weight verified against deck point load capacity?
  • Custom cradles or supports adequate for cargo shape?
  • Weather routing planned to avoid extreme conditions for project cargo?
  • Master signed off on heavy lift stowage plan?

At-Sea Cargo Inspection

Ongoing cargo inspection.

  • Daily cargo rounds conducted and lashings checked?
  • Additional inspection conducted after heavy weather?
  • Any slack lashings tightened promptly?
  • Any cargo shift reported to Master immediately?
  • Cargo Inspection Notes

Cargo Records

Securing documentation.

  • Approved cargo stowage and securing plan on board?
  • Lashing list or securing log maintained?
  • Letter of Protest issued for damaged cargo received?
  • Any cargo loss overboard reported to flag state and IMO?
  • Final Securing Notes

Related Maritime Checklists

Related Cargo Operations Checklists

Why Use This Cargo Lashing and Securing Inspection Checklist?

This cargo lashing and securing inspection checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for chief officer / cargo officer professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per voyage.

Ensures compliance with CSS Code Safe Practice Cargo Stowage and Securing, SOLAS Chapter VI Carriage of Cargoes, IMO ILO UNECE CTU Code Cargo Transport Units, Company Cargo Securing Manual CSM, IICL Container Condition Criteria. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Cargo Lashing and Securing Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Pre-Sailing Securing Check, Lashing Gear Condition, Container Inspection, Heavy Lift and Project Cargo, At-Sea Cargo Inspection, Cargo Records. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per voyage. Each completion takes approximately 1-2 hours.

Who should use this Cargo Lashing and Securing Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Chief Officer / Cargo Officer professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

Browse More Checklists