What is the term for securing a load on a vessel to prevent movement?

The term for securing a load on a vessel to prevent movement is "securing." This process involves using various techniques and equipment to ensure that cargo remains in place during transit, which is crucial for the safety and stability of the vessel as well as the protection of the cargo itself. Proper securing of loads helps to mitigate the risks associated with shifting cargo, which can lead to dangerous situations like capsizing or cargo damage.

In the context of maritime operations, securing specifically refers to the methods employed to bind or fasten the cargo to the vessel, ensuring that it does not move as the ship encounters waves, winds, or changes in direction. This includes the use of straps, chains, ropes, and other securing devices designed for different types of cargo.

Ballasting refers to adding weight to a vessel, usually achieved by taking on water or other materials in the hull to improve stability and trim. Stowing pertains to the arrangement and placement of cargo within the vessel, which indirectly relates to securing but does not specifically address the act of fastening it in place. Mooring involves securing a vessel to a fixed point, such as a dock or buoy, to keep it stationary when in port, rather than dealing with the internal load on the vessel itself.