Load Securing on Trucks: Lashing Straps, Requirements, and Penalties in Austria<\/h2><\/div>An unsecured load is no trivial matter. In the event of an emergency stop, a pallet becomes a projectile\u2014and a transport job turns into a liability case. Anyone transporting goods in Austria operates within a clearly defined legal framework: the Motor Vehicle Act (KFG). This article explains what the law requires, who is responsible, how to use tie-down straps correctly, and what to expect during an inspection. <\/p>\n
Please note: The German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) do not apply in Austria.<\/h3>\n
A common misconception: Many online guides cite Section 22 of the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) when discussing load securing. In Austria, however, the relevant provision is \u00a7 101(1)(e) of the KFG of 1967 <\/strong>. Anyone who bases their argument on the wrong legal basis will find their argument falls on deaf ears during an audit.<\/p>\nWhat \u00a7 101 of the KFG Specifically Requires<\/h3>\n
The key point of this provision is that the load\u2014as well as any individual parts of it\u2014must be stowed or secured by appropriate means so that it can withstand the forces encountered during normal driving, the safe operation of the vehicle is not impaired, and no one is endangered. The individual parts must shift only slightly in relation to one another and to the vehicle walls.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
![\"Load](\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%27http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%27%20width%3D%271024%27%20height%3D%271536%27%20viewBox%3D%270%200%201024%201536%27%3E%3Crect%20width%3D%271024%27%20height%3D%271536%27%20fill-opacity%3D%220%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" "\\"Load")
<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div>The law explicitly lists suitable securing devices: lashing straps, clamping beams, transport protection pads, anti-slip mats<\/strong>, or combinations thereof. However, Section 101(1)(e) of the KFG does not contain detailed technical calculation guidelines\u2014in practice, one relies on the recognized rules of the art. <\/p>\nIn addition, the KFG also regulates protruding cargo: If the cargo protrudes more than one meter beyond the front or rear end of the vehicle or the last trailer, it must be marked. In Austria, this is done using a long-load sign (25 x 40 cm, white with a 5 cm-wide red reflective border, positioned no more than 90 cm above the road surface). Separate speed limits also apply to long-load transports\u201450 km\/h on rural roads, 80 km\/h on highways and expressways.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
Who is liable? Not just the driver <\/h3>\n
One point that is regularly underestimated in practice: Vehicle owners, drivers, and shippers share responsibility<\/strong> for properly securing cargo.<\/p>\n\n- The driver<\/strong> may not put a vehicle into service until he or she has satisfied himself or herself\u2014to the extent reasonably possible\u2014that the vehicle, trailer, and their cargo comply with the regulations (Section 102(1) of the Motor Vehicle Act).<\/li>\n
- The license holder<\/strong> must ensure that the vehicle and its cargo comply with the regulations (Section 103(1) of the Road Traffic Act). The license holder can only be relieved of this responsibility by having an effective<\/strong> in-house monitoring system<\/strong> \u2014not merely by stating that they trusted the driver. <\/li>\n
- Since the addition of \u00a7 101(1a) of the KFG, the person authorized to give instructions or the shipper<\/strong> is independently liable to prosecution. He cannot use the excuse that he was merely following the customer\u2019s wishes when loading the goods. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
This rule is specifically intended to prevent the driver from ultimately bearing sole responsibility.<\/p>\n
Friction Fit or Form Fit: The Two Basic Methods<\/h3>\n
Lashing (friction lock).<\/strong> The strap presses the load against the loading area, thereby increasing friction. What matters here is not the strap\u2019s breaking strength, but rather the pretension force (STF)<\/strong> and the coefficient of friction\u2014which is why anti-slip mats (RH mats) are not merely accessories, but a critical component of the securing system. Anyone who secures a load without an RH mat will need many times as many straps. <\/p>\nDirect lashing and blocking (positive locking).<\/strong> The load is secured directly to the vehicle using diagonal, oblique, or top-over lashing, or is positioned so that it fits snugly against the front wall, side walls, and clamping beams. In this case, the permissible lashing force (LC)<\/strong> of the strap is what matters. A sturdy sidewall system\u2014such as an aluminum sidewall system like the FZB Alu<\/a> \u2014directly contributes to the load-securing effect in this context. <\/p>\nIn practice, combining both methods is usually the safest solution.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
Lashing Straps: What to Look For<\/h3>\n\n- Read the label; don’t guess.<\/strong> LC (permissible lashing force), STF (pre-tension force), and SHF (manual force) are listed on the label. A strap without a legible label is worthless in the event of an inspection. <\/li>\n
- Recognizing when it’s time to prune.<\/strong> Straps should be discarded if they have cuts or tears along the edges, broken threads, severe wear and tear, heat or chemical damage, or if the ratchets and hooks are deformed, cracked, or severely corroded.<\/li>\n
- Check the tie-down points.<\/strong> A strap is only as strong as the point where it is attached\u2014bent or torn-out tie-down points are a real problem.<\/li>\n
- Insert the edge protector.<\/strong> Sharp edges on the load significantly reduce the belt’s load-bearing capacity.<\/li>\n
- Do not over-tighten.<\/strong> Excessive pretension can damage the load and the strap; the ratchet is not a force gauge.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the consequences of a traffic stop?<\/h3>\n
In Austria, improper securing of cargo is punishable as an administrative offense under Section 134 of the Road Traffic Act (KFG). The general penalty range under this provision is in the four-digit range\u2014up to 10,000 euros under the current version of the law\u2014with the specific amount of the fine depending on the severity of the offense, the degree of fault, and the offender\u2019s income.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div>In addition to the fine, there may be other consequences:<\/p>\n
\n- Provisional Security Deposit:<\/strong> If a violation is suspected, a sum of up to 2,180 euros may be set as a provisional security deposit pursuant to \u00a7 134(4) of the KFG. <\/li>\n
- Prohibition on continuing the journey<\/strong> until the cargo is properly secured.<\/li>\n
- An entry in the driver’s license registry<\/strong> if road safety is endangered by a load that has not been properly secured and the driver should have noticed the defect before starting the trip.<\/li>\n
- Company Risk Classification:<\/strong> For vehicles in classes M2, M3, N2, N3, O3, or O4, violations of load securing regulations identified during roadside technical inspections are factored into the regulatory risk classification. Companies with a high risk rating are inspected more strictly and more frequently<\/strong>. <\/li>\n
- Civil and criminal liability<\/strong> if damage results from inadequate safety measures.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The last point is the most expensive\u2014and the one that isn’t listed in any fine schedule.<\/p>\n
Note:<\/em><\/strong> This article provides a general overview and is not a substitute for legal advice. The legal situation and penalties may change; in individual cases, the current version of the KFG or expert advice shall prevail. <\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>Quick Checklist Before Departure<\/h3>\n\n- Is the cargo area clean, dry, and undamaged?<\/li>\n
- Are there non-slip mats in the areas where cargo is secured?<\/li>\n
- Are all straps labeled, undamaged, and equipped with edge protection?<\/li>\n
- Are the lashing points and side walls intact?<\/li>\n
- Is the protruding load properly marked?<\/li>\n
- Can individual parts of a load shift relative to one another?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Safety Measures at FZB<\/h3>\n
Lashing straps, ratchets, edge protectors, anti-slip mats, and robust sidewall systems are at the heart of the FZB product line\u2014which includes over 350,000 items for trucks, trailers, agriculture, and industry. The best way to determine which securing equipment is right for your load and your truck body is to check directly: through the FZB online store<\/a> or by contacting your local FZB location<\/a>. Our article on the 5 most common causes of truck breakdowns<\/a> also illustrates how closely load securing is linked to the technical condition of the vehicle.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h3>\n
Which law governs load securing in Austria?<\/strong><\/p>\nSection 101(1)(e) of the KFG 1967 applies. The load must be stowed or secured in such a way that it can withstand the forces encountered during normal driving and does not endanger anyone. Section 22 of the German StVO does not apply in Austria. <\/p>\n
Who is responsible for securing the load?<\/strong><\/p>\nThe registration holder, driver, and shipper or the person authorized to give instructions share joint responsibility. Only an effective in-house monitoring system can relieve the registration holder of liability. <\/p>\n
What are the costs of improper load securing in Austria?<\/strong><\/p>\nIt is punishable as an administrative offense under \u00a7 134 KFG; the range of penalties extends into the four-digit range. In addition, this may result in a provisional security deposit of up to 2,180 euros, a prohibition on continuing the journey, a record of the offense, and a lower risk rating for the company. <\/p>\n
Is securing the load from below enough on its own?<\/strong><\/p>\nOnly if the friction is right. Without anti-slip pads, securing the load requires many times more pretensioning force. In practice, the combination of force and form fit is usually the safest solution.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
An unsecured load is no trivial matter. In the event of an emergency stop, a pallet becomes a projectile\u2014and a transport job turns into a liability case. Anyone transporting goods in Austria operates within a clearly defined legal framework: the Motor Vehicle Act (KFG). This article explains what the law requires, who is responsible, how to use tie-down straps correctly, and what to expect during an inspection. <\/p>\n
Please note: The German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) do not apply in Austria.<\/h3>\n
A common misconception: Many online guides cite Section 22 of the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) when discussing load securing. In Austria, however, the relevant provision is \u00a7 101(1)(e) of the KFG of 1967 <\/strong>. Anyone who bases their argument on the wrong legal basis will find their argument falls on deaf ears during an audit.<\/p>\n The key point of this provision is that the load\u2014as well as any individual parts of it\u2014must be stowed or secured by appropriate means so that it can withstand the forces encountered during normal driving, the safe operation of the vehicle is not impaired, and no one is endangered. The individual parts must shift only slightly in relation to one another and to the vehicle walls.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> The law explicitly lists suitable securing devices: lashing straps, clamping beams, transport protection pads, anti-slip mats<\/strong>, or combinations thereof. However, Section 101(1)(e) of the KFG does not contain detailed technical calculation guidelines\u2014in practice, one relies on the recognized rules of the art. <\/p>\n In addition, the KFG also regulates protruding cargo: If the cargo protrudes more than one meter beyond the front or rear end of the vehicle or the last trailer, it must be marked. In Austria, this is done using a long-load sign (25 x 40 cm, white with a 5 cm-wide red reflective border, positioned no more than 90 cm above the road surface). Separate speed limits also apply to long-load transports\u201450 km\/h on rural roads, 80 km\/h on highways and expressways.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> One point that is regularly underestimated in practice: Vehicle owners, drivers, and shippers share responsibility<\/strong> for properly securing cargo.<\/p>\n This rule is specifically intended to prevent the driver from ultimately bearing sole responsibility.<\/p>\n Lashing (friction lock).<\/strong> The strap presses the load against the loading area, thereby increasing friction. What matters here is not the strap\u2019s breaking strength, but rather the pretension force (STF)<\/strong> and the coefficient of friction\u2014which is why anti-slip mats (RH mats) are not merely accessories, but a critical component of the securing system. Anyone who secures a load without an RH mat will need many times as many straps. <\/p>\n Direct lashing and blocking (positive locking).<\/strong> The load is secured directly to the vehicle using diagonal, oblique, or top-over lashing, or is positioned so that it fits snugly against the front wall, side walls, and clamping beams. In this case, the permissible lashing force (LC)<\/strong> of the strap is what matters. A sturdy sidewall system\u2014such as an aluminum sidewall system like the FZB Alu<\/a> \u2014directly contributes to the load-securing effect in this context. <\/p>\n In practice, combining both methods is usually the safest solution.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> In Austria, improper securing of cargo is punishable as an administrative offense under Section 134 of the Road Traffic Act (KFG). The general penalty range under this provision is in the four-digit range\u2014up to 10,000 euros under the current version of the law\u2014with the specific amount of the fine depending on the severity of the offense, the degree of fault, and the offender\u2019s income.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> In addition to the fine, there may be other consequences:<\/p>\n The last point is the most expensive\u2014and the one that isn’t listed in any fine schedule.<\/p>\n Note:<\/em><\/strong> This article provides a general overview and is not a substitute for legal advice. The legal situation and penalties may change; in individual cases, the current version of the KFG or expert advice shall prevail. <\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> Lashing straps, ratchets, edge protectors, anti-slip mats, and robust sidewall systems are at the heart of the FZB product line\u2014which includes over 350,000 items for trucks, trailers, agriculture, and industry. The best way to determine which securing equipment is right for your load and your truck body is to check directly: through the FZB online store<\/a> or by contacting your local FZB location<\/a>. Our article on the 5 most common causes of truck breakdowns<\/a> also illustrates how closely load securing is linked to the technical condition of the vehicle.<\/p>\n<\/div> Which law governs load securing in Austria?<\/strong><\/p>\n Section 101(1)(e) of the KFG 1967 applies. The load must be stowed or secured in such a way that it can withstand the forces encountered during normal driving and does not endanger anyone. Section 22 of the German StVO does not apply in Austria. <\/p>\n Who is responsible for securing the load?<\/strong><\/p>\n The registration holder, driver, and shipper or the person authorized to give instructions share joint responsibility. Only an effective in-house monitoring system can relieve the registration holder of liability. <\/p>\n What are the costs of improper load securing in Austria?<\/strong><\/p>\n It is punishable as an administrative offense under \u00a7 134 KFG; the range of penalties extends into the four-digit range. In addition, this may result in a provisional security deposit of up to 2,180 euros, a prohibition on continuing the journey, a record of the offense, and a lower risk rating for the company. <\/p>\n Is securing the load from below enough on its own?<\/strong><\/p>\n Only if the friction is right. Without anti-slip pads, securing the load requires many times more pretensioning force. In practice, the combination of force and form fit is usually the safest solution.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>What \u00a7 101 of the KFG Specifically Requires<\/h3>\n
![\"Load](\"https:\/\/fahrzeugbedarf.at\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ladungssicherung.jpg\" "\\"Load")
Who is liable? Not just the driver <\/h3>\n
\n
Friction Fit or Form Fit: The Two Basic Methods<\/h3>\n
Lashing Straps: What to Look For<\/h3>\n
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What are the consequences of a traffic stop?<\/h3>\n
![\"load-securing-2\"](\"https:\/\/fahrzeugbedarf.at\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ladungssicherung-2.jpg\" "\\"load-securing-2\\"")
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Quick Checklist Before Departure<\/h3>\n
\n
Safety Measures at FZB<\/h3>\n
Frequently Asked Questions<\/h3>\n