Guideline for load securing

As of February 1, 2026, the amendments to the VDI 2700 guideline on load securing will come into effect. These changes include new labeling requirements for load securing systems. Guido Elting (pictured), Managing Director of Elting Metalltechnik, points out in a statement from Variosolutions that there are no transition periods for load securing systems or grandfathering for older vehicles for owners of transport vehicles such as trucks or vans.

The revised VDI 2700 Sheet 3.2 establishes extended requirements for the labeling of load securing means, including lashing straps and lashing systems. The aim of these innovations is to improve traceability and load assessment of the systems used. Elting explains that the introduction of the new guideline is causing uncertainty in the market. Many training providers, experts, and manufacturers of load securing products are intensively addressing the new requirements.

No transition periods for existing systems

According to Elting, contradictory information is circulating about the new regulations. In particular, the assumption of grandfathering for older vehicles or a transition period for existing load securing systems is misleading. „VDI guidelines represent the recognized state of the art. With the publication of a new version, the previous edition is immediately replaced,“ says Elting.

The new requirements demand that owners of older transport vehicles label their load securing systems in compliance with the regulations from now on. A simple labeling is not sufficient according to Elting, as the guideline requires complete traceability down to the raw materials used. Elting emphasizes that for existing or older products, this information is often no longer traceable. „A subsequent labeling by means of a label or sticker would not allow for a reliable statement about material, origin, or compliance with standards,“ he further explains.

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