Lastamine

Lastamine is the process of loading goods onto a transport unit, container, or storage space, commonly used in Estonian logistics. The term originates from the Estonian verb lastama, meaning “to load,” with the noun form lastamine describing the activity of placing cargo for transport or storage.

Scope and purpose: Lastamine covers planning the placement of items to optimize space, stability, and handling efficiency. It includes selecting appropriate equipment, preparing the cargo, securing it against movement, and documenting the load for shipment or inventory control.

Operations: Preloading assessment involves checking weight distribution, compatibility with the transport mode, and applicable labeling and documentation. During loading, workers place items carefully, follow weight limits, and use restraints such as straps, nets, corner protectors, and edge guards. Post-loading verification ensures stability and accuracy of the manifest.

Equipment and methods: Common tools include forklifts, pallet jacks, overhead cranes, conveyors, and loading ramps. Pallets, containers, and proper packing materials facilitate efficient lastamine and safe transport.

Safety and regulation: Lastamine is governed by occupational safety rules and industry standards. Training, PPE, fall-protection, hazard communication, and site-specific procedures are essential to reduce risk during loading activities.

Applications: It is central to ports, warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing facilities, and any operation that moves goods by land, sea, or rail. In some contexts, the term may also be used metaphorically for loading data or software into devices, though this is less common.

See also: Cargo handling, loading dock, stowage planning, inventory management.