Lloyd’s Register (LR) has introduced a set of updated container stowage tools aimed at reducing the risk of container loss at sea and improving operational efficiency on increasingly large and complex container vessels.
The latest release brings together enhanced versions of LR’s BoxMax and Roll Design Assessment (RDA) class notations with updates to the LashRightUX platform and the introduction of a new digital system, RollRight.
Together, the tools are intended to support shipowners and operators in optimising cargo loading while maintaining safety margins under demanding operating conditions.
Container loss remains a persistent concern for the sector. Data from the World Shipping Council indicates that 576 containers were lost at sea in 2024, more than twice the number reported the previous year. Although this figure represents a small proportion of total global container movements, individual incidents can carry significant financial, environmental and reputational consequences.
LR’s updated stowage package is positioned as a response to these risks, with a focus on improved modelling, faster calculation processes and vessel-specific roll management.
The revised BoxMax notation incorporates more detailed motion modelling and new algorithms for calculating safe stack loads. According to LR, this allows vessels to increase cargo intake without compromising structural or operational safety.
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Alongside this, the RDA notation and the RollRight system are designed to address rolling-related risks. By analysing actual sea states, the system provides crews with real-time insight into rolling behaviour, including early warnings and recommended corrective actions.
This approach aims to reduce the likelihood of incidents linked to synchronous and parametric rolling, which have been identified as contributing factors in some container losses.
LashRightUX has also been updated with a redesigned user interface and enhanced visualisation capabilities. These changes are intended to make stowage analysis more accessible and to support collaboration between ship designers, software providers and vessel operators throughout the planning and operational stages.
In parallel with the technical upgrades, LR is leading the development of the Lashing Exchange Format (LXF) Consortium. The initiative seeks to establish an industry-wide standard for exchanging container securing data, with the aim of simplifying classification processes and reducing duplication during design approval and operational assessments.
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Nick Gross, LR’s Global Containerships Segment Director, said: “Optimum stowage remains one of the most important challenges in container shipping. These tools combine proven engineering with digital capability and operational reality to give vessel operators clearer insight, faster decision-making and better risk management.
“With these enhancements, we’re equipping the industry with tools that improve safety and reliability, while helping operators run more efficiently and achieve maximum utilisation.”
The updates reflect a broader industry focus on integrating digital tools with established engineering approaches as container shipping continues to evolve.
For more information:
Lloyd’s Register – https://www.lr.org/en/
