Pallet Load Securing - Which Method Should You Use?
Stretch wrapping, strapping, edge protection and anti-slip mats each secure a pallet in a different way. This guide compares the four methods, explains the requirements of EUMOS 40509 and VDI 2700, and shows how to combine them into one stable load unit.
What do EUMOS 40509 and VDI 2700 require?
A load unit must withstand the acceleration forces of transport without items sliding or tipping. VDI 2700 and the European test standard EUMOS 40509 set the reference values: 0.8 g in the direction of travel plus 0.5 g rearward and to the side.
EUMOS 40509 assesses the stability of a load unit through its elastic and permanent deformation under a defined acceleration. Deformation above 5 % of the height (elastic) or 4 % (permanent) is considered insufficiently stable.
- 0.8 g in the direction of travel (braking) is the hardest load case.
- 0.5 g sideways in curves and 0.5 g rearward when accelerating.
- The friction coefficient of the load bed feeds directly into the required securing force.
- A EUMOS 40509 test documents the stability of the load unit.
How do the four methods differ?
Each method solves a different problem: stretch film bundles, strapping fixes vertically, edge protection spreads the tension and anti-slip mats raise friction. Only the combination creates a form-fit, stable load unit.
Stretch film with high pre-stretch (up to 300 %) wraps the goods with a defined holding force and binds the individual layers into a block. Strapping bands of PET or PP are routed over the edges and pull the stack down onto the pallet.
Which combination suits which load?
The choice depends on weight, centre of gravity, surface and shape stability of the items. Light, shape-stable cartons often manage with stretch film and an anti-slip mat, while heavy or top-heavy units also need strapping and edge protection.
- Light, shape-stable cartons: stretch film plus an anti-slip mat as the base.
- Heavy stacks with a high centre of gravity: strapping with edge protection against tipping.
- Smooth or filmed surfaces: place an anti-slip mat between the layers.
- Pressure-sensitive goods: edge protection spreads the band tension over an area.
- Tall units: additionally tie down or strap the top layer.
Frequently asked questions
Is stretch film alone enough for load securing?
For light, shape-stable goods on an anti-slip base, often yes. Heavy or tall units also need strapping and edge protection to reach the values in VDI 2700.
What does EUMOS 40509 test?
It measures the elastic and permanent deformation of a load unit under a defined acceleration and rates its stability. Common limits are 5 % elastic and 4 % permanent relative to the height.
How much does an anti-slip mat help?
It often raises the friction coefficient from about 0.2 to above 0.6. Much of the acceleration force is then held by friction, so the required securing force drops noticeably.
PET or PP strapping band?
PET holds higher tension and keeps it longer, ideal for heavy, stable stacks. PP is cheaper and more elastic, suited to lighter bundling.
Securing a pallet to standard?
We supply stretch films, strapping bands, edge protection and anti-slip mats for form-fit load units per EUMOS 40509 and VDI 2700.
Standards-based
Solutions aligned with EUMOS 40509 and VDI 2700.
Proven mix
Film, strapping and friction sensibly balanced.
Full range
All four methods available from one source.
Expert advice
Specialists help you pick the right securing.