Loading aids in logistics

Loading aids (LHM) or storage aids are products that facilitate the handling of goods during transport and storage by enabling individual items to be combined into transport and storage units. These loading aids and storage aids include

• Euro pallets
• mesh boxes
• but also containers for liquids such as tanks.

The terms ‘loading aids’ and ‘storage aids’ are often used synonymously with the terms ‘conveyor aids’, ‘transport aids’ or ‘loading equipment’.

The category of subsidies includes

• assembly lines
• sliding
• cranes
• lifting platforms
• lifts
• and rack conveyors

The use of loading aids serves to form loading units in warehousing and logistics. In logistics, a basic distinction is made between external transport, such as the journey of goods from the producer to the customer, and internal transport, such as the journey of goods from production to the warehouse, which is referred to as conveying.

Loading equipment and handling aids: protection and efficiency in storage and transport

This measure, together with the use of loading equipment and suitable conveyors, protects packaging materials and their contents from damage caused by lifting equipment, during storage or in transit. For example, cartons, drums or sacks can be stacked securely on pallets in accordance with legal requirements and secured against falling using film, lashing materials and edge protectors. This also protects the cargo from slipping, rolling or tipping during further transport in containers or flat racks by lorry. Pallets, like rollers, are referred to as load-bearing conveyor aids. Pallet cages, ISO containers and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) for shipping liquids are referred to as loading aids or storage aids with an enclosing or closing function, depending on their area of application. Loading aids and conveyor aids facilitate the formation of space-saving storage units and internal transport, for example with pallet trucks or forklifts. In warehouse logistics, these loading aids solve numerous problems, especially with goods that are difficult to store and transport.

How do I find the right loading equipment and handling aids for my goods?

As part of transport management, information should be gathered and comprehensive planning should be carried out before each transport. Further training for loading personnel and drivers provides tips and information on the technical implementation of load securing in warehouse logistics and the use of loading aids, thus making an important contribution to the optimisation of logistics processes and proper load securing. Knowledge of the requirements set out in laws such as Section 22 of the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO), the Machinery Ordinance, VDI Guideline 2700 and the Trade Association Regulations (BGV) is the basis for a safe flow of materials. Specific information on safe methods for bundling general cargo can be found in VDI Guideline 2700 Sheet 6 and VDI 3968. Information on the use of conveyor equipment and storage aids can also be found in the Trade Association Regulation (BGR) 234. With regard to quality, properties and load-bearing capacity, the relevant European DIN standards (DIN EN) must also be observed for loading aids and conveyor equipment. Numerous publishers offer specialised literature on load securing and solutions for forming storage units.