HD Hyundai delivers world’s first “Lashing-Free” containership

South Korea shipbuilder HD Hyundai is reporting the delivery of a “Lashing-Free” container vessel that eliminates the need for workers to manually secure containers on board.

HD Hyundai has delivered what it describes as the world’s first containership with hybrid-type Lashing-Free technology partially applied.

The 13,000 teu Lashing-Free containership was delivered to a French shipping company, according to HD Hyundai.

HD Hyundai said this technology removes the need for manual container lashing, which has traditionally been carried out by workers using lashing equipment on large container vessels. It also incorporates technologies designed to prevent cargo loss and maximize logistics efficiency.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries independently developed and validated all key components of the Lashing-Free technology, while HD Hyundai Samho was responsible for the detailed design and construction of the vessel incorporating the system.

The company said the Lashing-Free containership can carry over 10% additional cargo weight on deck compared with conventional vessels of the same type. In accordance with HD Hyundai, the system is also designed to provide stable support for containers, even in rough seas and strong winds.

A next-generation version of the technology incorporating weathertight features is also under development.

“We plan to expand the application of this new container transportation technology to small- and medium-sized vessels,” said Hongryeul Ryu, senior executive vice president and chief technology officer at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.

The technology was introduced at the International Maritime Organization’s 10th session of the Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers in 2024.