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Why Trailer Nets Are Usually Not Enough to Secure a Load

August 11, 2026

A common misconception among trailer owners remains surprisingly persistent: "Just throw a net over it and it'll be fine." Anyone travelling like this not only risks fines and penalty points, but also puts themselves and other road users in danger.

Load securing nets are primarily designed to prevent lightweight items or loose materials (such as leaves, garden waste, empty cardboard boxes or firewood) from falling or being blown off the trailer while driving. They provide a cover, but offer very little restraint in the event of emergency braking or sudden evasive manoeuvres.

This topic regularly comes up within the community and on specialist forums such as anhaengerforum.de. Users frequently report potentially dangerous situations or experiences during police checks:

Furniture and heavy boxes: Users have reported heavy items simply tearing through the net or shifting completely during braking.
Incorrect certification: A basic cover net will generally not have a test label stating its Lashing Capacity (LC), unlike certified lashing straps. During roadside checks, an uncertified net may therefore not be accepted as an adequate means of securing heavy loads.
A dangerous misconception: Securing furniture, machinery or building materials with nothing more than a net is grossly negligent.

The right combination: How to secure your load

To transport your load safely and in accordance with road traffic regulations, you need to use a combination of different load-securing methods:

Securing loads with lashing straps: Both positive and frictional securing methods using tested and approved lashing straps are essential for all solid items. Make sure the straps carry the appropriate safety certification and that their labels are intact and legible.
Create a positive fit: Position the load firmly against the front wall or headboard of the trailer, or use timber blocks and wedges to eliminate gaps.
Anti-slip mats: These significantly increase friction and considerably reduce the amount of pre-tensioning force required from your straps.
Use the net as an additional safeguard: Place the net over a load that has already been securely strapped down to contain small items or any remaining loose mat