Engineering out risk from oversized cargo transport

Transporting oversized cargo across the globe comes with significant risks and challenges. When faced with the task of moving massive equipment like industrial ladles from China to the UK, companies need a solution that ensures safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.


For Denholm Project Forwarding, the assignment was clear: transport seven industrial ladles, each weighing 85.5 tonnes and measuring six meters in width and height, to Port Talbot, South Wales, UK. The project required meticulous planning due to the size of the cargo and the limitations of Port Talbot’s dock, adding complexity and risk to the operation.

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The challenge: Securing oversized cargo for safe, long-distance transport

Denholm Project Forwarding needed to safely secure these enormous ladles on a ship for transport. Any movement of the cargo during the voyage posed the risk of catastrophic failure, potentially causing the cargo to break free and even sink the ship. Traditional securing methods, such as steel chains, could not be relied upon due to their potential to cause damage and injuries.

Cordstrap’s solution: Advanced cargo securing with Cordlash

To overcome these challenges, Denholm Project Forwarding partnered with Van Ameyde McAuslands and Cordstrap’s Cargo Protection Engineers. Cordstrap designed a customized solution using its Cordlash 1500 lashing system combined with the Dynablock 20, providing a breaking strength of 20,000 daN per lashing.

This approach offered several key advantages over traditional methods like steel chains:

  • Quick and Easy Application: The Cordlash system reduced load times and boosted productivity, allowing for faster cargo securing and removal.
  • Unmatched Safety: Engineered for both cargo and personnel protection, Cordlash minimized the risk of injury.
  • Superior Strength: With high pretension and shock absorption, the system provided optimal protection for even the heaviest loads.
  • Cost-Effective: Preventing cargo damage, remanufacturing costs, and wastage, Cordlash reduced overall expenses compared to traditional methods.
  • Lightweight and Portable: Four times lighter than steel chains, Cordlash was easier to handle and apply.
  • Compliant and Certified: The Cordlash system met international standards, certified by DNV and compliant with CTU Code and CSS Code.

Results: Safe and damage-free transport

Thanks to Cordstrap’s innovative solution, the seven industrial ladles were safely transported to South Wales without damage or delays. Cordlash not only protected the machinery's delicate paint but also ensured that the cargo was secure throughout the journey. The ease of application and removal sped up both the loading and unloading processes.

As noted by the customer

Not only would chains have damaged the cargo, but the application and removal of Cordlash is much easier. Also, it just looks more beautiful!

Key learnings: The importance of collaboration and planning

The success of this project hinged on several factors:

  • Meticulous Planning: Careful attention to detail ensured that every step of the process was executed with precision.
  • Collaboration: Seamless coordination between Denholm Project Forwarding, Van Ameyde McAuslands, and Cordstrap’s Cargo Protection Engineers played a crucial role.
  • Flexibility: The ability to adapt and respond to challenges as they arose was essential to the project’s success.

A safer, smarter way to handle oversized cargo

Cordstrap’s Cordlash 1500 offers a transformative solution for securing heavy, oversized cargo during long-distance transport. Whether your project involves shipping industrial machinery or large-scale equipment, Cordstrap’s advanced lashing systems ensure that your cargo is protected and compliant with the highest international safety standards.

To learn more about how Cordstrap can support your oversized cargo transport needs, contact our team of Cargo Protection Engineers today.

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