Anti-slip mats are far more than simple accessories. They play an essential role in modern logistics by increasing friction between cargo and loading surfaces, which stabilizes goods throughout transport. Their proper use significantly reduces the risk of cargo movement that can lead to damage, accidents or fines for non-compliance. In addition to enhancing safety, anti-slip mats can provide tangible economic benefits by streamlining load securing operations and reducing claims and downtime. They are also part of a sustainable approach to logistics because many are made from recycled rubber and are reusable over long periods. For companies moving goods by road, rail or sea, integrating anti-slip mats into their load securing strategy offers a triple advantage: safety, cost-effectiveness and environmental responsibility.
Safety Benefits
The primary function of anti-slip mats is to improve cargo stability by increasing the coefficient of friction (µ) between the load and the vehicle floor. In many cases, untreated metal or wooden surfaces have low friction values (often µ ≤ 0.2), which makes loads susceptible to sliding under forces generated during braking, cornering or evasive maneuvers. Anti-slip mats, typically made of high-density recycled rubber, can achieve µ values of 0.6 or higher under proper conditions. This higher friction reduces the residual securing forces needed and significantly lowers the risk of load displacement.
By contributing to greater load stability, anti-slip mats help companies meet the requirements of widely recognized safety standards such as VDI 2700 in Germany, EN 12195 across the EU and roadside inspection criteria defined in EU Directive 2014/47/EU. Complying with these regulations is not just about avoiding penalties: it’s about protecting drivers, cargo handlers and all other road users from the severe consequences of unsecured loads. Cargo that shifts can cause vehicles to overturn or lose control, leading to injuries, fatalities and significant material damage.
Cost Savings Benefits
Beyond safety, anti-slip mats have a direct economic impact. Loads that slide can damage goods and packaging, leading to insurance claims, customer dissatisfaction and replacement costs. By preventing such movement, mats reduce these risks and help companies maintain a reliable delivery record. Moreover, because mats increase friction, they reduce the residual securing force needed, allowing operators to use fewer lashing straps or lower pre-tension forces to meet legal requirements.
This has two major cost implications: less securing equipment is required per trip, and the time needed for loading and unloading decreases. For example, using mats under pallets may cut the number of straps needed by half. A standard 1,000 kg pallet with µ = 0.2 may need up to 8 straps; with mats increasing µ to 0.6, only about 4 straps may be sufficient under comparable conditions. Fewer straps mean faster loading and unloading, freeing up personnel and vehicles for more trips and improving operational efficiency.
Additionally, mats are designed to be reused many times if maintained properly. Unlike disposable packaging or single-use securing aids, a quality anti-slip mat can last for months or even years, spreading its cost over many shipments. Regular inspection and cleaning (removing oil, dust or debris) are essential to maintain their effectiveness.
Sustainability Benefits
Sustainability is increasingly important for businesses and regulators. Anti-slip mats contribute to greener logistics in several ways. Most are produced from recycled SBR rubber derived from end-of-life tyres (ELTs). This repurposing diverts large volumes of rubber waste from landfills and incineration and gives it a second life in a valuable product. According to the European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers Association (ETRMA), over 50% of ELTs in Europe are recycled into new materials and products, including mats.
Furthermore, mats themselves can often be recycled at the end of their life, closing the loop in a circular economy model. By preventing cargo damage, mats also indirectly reduce waste of raw materials, packaging and energy associated with remanufacturing or replacing damaged goods. This supports both corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals and compliance with green procurement policies that are increasingly common in public and private tenders.
Summary of Key Benefits
- Safer cargo securing – minimizes accident and injury risks.
- Reduced securing costs – fewer straps, faster loading/unloading, less damage.
- Eco-friendly – made from recycled materials, reusable and recyclable.
- Compliance support – helps meet EU and VDI safety standards and sustainability goals.
