Challenges

A leading Australian steel distributor transporting rolled steel coils nationwide faced significant load restraint challenges due to the extreme weight and smooth surface of steel coils. When placed directly on steel truck decks, steel-on-steel contact created a high risk of load movement during braking, acceleration, and cornering.

Key challenges included:

• Preventing load slippage in all driving conditions.
• Meeting National Transport Commission (NTC) Load Restraint Guide 2018 requirements.
• Reducing reliance on timber dunnage and steel frames alone for load security.
• Maintaining cargo integrity while ensuring driver and road safety.
• Achieving a durable solution suitable for repeated long-distance transport.

Solution

To overcome these challenges, durable high-friction Rubber Load Mats manufactured by Forech were supplied through our trusted channel partner Reglin Rubber (Australia) and integrated into the existing load restraint system.

The solution delivered the following advantages:

• Significantly increased friction between steel support frames and the truck deck.
• Reduced risk of load movement during acceleration, braking, and cornering.
• Improved stability when used in combination with steel frames and chains.
• Superior durability compared to recycled rubber mats, resisting breakdown under heavy loads.
• The solid rubber load mats were positioned beneath the steel support frames, effectively eliminating steel-on-steel contact and enhancing overall load stability.

Outcome

Following implementation, the steel distributor achieved:

• Enhanced transport safety with a substantial reduction in load movement risk.
• Improved compliance with national load restraint regulations.
• Greater confidence in long-distance steel coil transport operations.
• Reduced maintenance and replacement frequency due to the mats’ long service life.
• Fewer delays and disruptions, supporting reliable and timely deliveries.

Conclusion

By adopting Forech-manufactured Rubber Load Mats, supplied via Reglin Rubber (Australia), the steel distributor significantly improved the safety, durability, and compliance of its steel coil transport operations. This case study demonstrates the critical role of engineered rubber load restraint solutions in heavy-duty logistics applications, helping operators meet regulatory standards while improving operational efficiency.