Skip to content
Vessels & stowage

Twistlock

In Indonesian: Twistlock (kunci sudut kontainer)

A twistlock is a locking device inserted into a container's corner casting and turned so the box locks onto the one below, onto the ship's deck or onto a trailer chassis. Types include manual, semi-automatic (SATL) and fully automatic twistlocks that release when a crane lifts the box. Unlocked or damaged twistlocks are a common cause of containers lost at sea or sliding off trailers, so drivers and terminal staff should confirm all four locks are engaged before the vehicle moves.

  • Lashing

    Lashing means securing cargo so it cannot shift under the accelerations of a sea voyage or a road journey.

  • Container Trailer (Chassis)

    A container trailer is a semi-trailer chassis pulled by a tractor unit to carry containers, locked by twistlocks at all four corners.

  • Quay Crane (STS Crane)

    A quay crane, or ship-to-shore (STS) crane, is the large gantry crane on the berth that loads and discharges containers.

  • Stowage Plan

    A stowage plan is the planned position of every container or cargo unit on board a vessel, built by line and terminal planners before the ship berths.

Covered in these guides

← Back to glossary

Try it in the 3D Planner

Enter your cargo dimensions and weights, pick a container or truck, and see the load layout, utilisation and centre of gravity in 3D. Free, no sign-up.

Load planning simulation. Not a substitute for official weighing, VGM, the vessel loading computer, or operator approval.