Short answer: Cargo grip container pads are polyurethane (PU) or rubber pads placed between cargo and a ship deck, quay or truck bed. They stop cargo from sliding, spread the load so decks and containers are not crushed or scratched, and resist oil, water and chemicals. Choose the pad by cargo weight, surface, pad size and the conditions at sea or in the field.
Cargo handling puts heavy, hard objects onto surfaces that are not meant to take point loads. A container corner resting on a steel deck can dent the plating, damage paint and slide when the vessel rolls. A pad between the two solves several problems at once.
What the pads do
- Grip: the pad’s high-friction surface resists sliding, so cargo stays where it was placed during movement and vibration.
- Load spreading: the pad increases the contact area, lowering pressure on the deck, quay or container floor.
- Surface protection: it prevents scratches, dents and coating damage on both the cargo and the supporting surface.
- Shock and vibration reduction: the elastic material absorbs some impact when cargo is landed or when the vessel moves.
- Spacing: pads lift cargo slightly off wet decks so water drains away and the underside stays accessible.
Why polyurethane
Polyurethane is tough, wear resistant and has high load capacity for an elastic material. High-density PU resists oils, many chemicals and weathering, which matters on offshore and oilfield cargo where drilling fluids, oils and salt water are common. It also does not rot or absorb water like timber dunnage, so it can be reused many times. See polyurethane guide for how PU hardness and grades differ.
Pads compared with timber dunnage
Timber dunnage is cheap, but it splits, absorbs water, can carry pests and is often single use. A PU pad is heavier-duty, more consistent in size, grips better and can be washed and reused. For marine and offshore work, where weight, safety and repeat use matter, pads are often the better long-term choice. Where heavy-lift cargo or pipe is involved, the pad must be rated for the load, so always confirm the capacity.
Typical uses
| Use |
Why a pad |
| Container corners on ship decks |
Grip and deck protection |
| Pipe and tubular cargo |
Stops rolling and surface damage |
| Oilfield equipment and skids |
Load spreading and oil resistance |
| Port and quay laydown |
Protects surfaces and cargo |
| Truck and trailer decks |
Prevents sliding in transit |
How to choose
- Cargo weight and contact area: the pad must carry the load without crushing. Heavier cargo needs thicker, harder pads or larger sizes.
- Pad size and thickness: match the container corner casting, the skid foot or the pipe diameter.
- Hardness: harder pads carry more load, softer pads grip and cushion more.
- Surface pattern: textured or ribbed surfaces improve grip, especially when wet.
- Environment: oil, salt water, heat and UV on deck.
- Handling: hand-lift weight, handles or lashing points, and visibility colour.
Using pads safely
Place pads on a clean, flat surface and make sure the cargo load sits fully on the pad. Do not rely on pads alone to secure cargo. Lashing and securing follow the vessel’s cargo securing manual and the rules of the operator and class society. Inspect pads before each use for cuts, flattening and contamination, and replace damaged pads.
Common mistakes to avoid
- using a pad rated below the cargo load, so it crushes
- placing a pad partly under the load so that it tilts
- using soft pads under very heavy point loads
- leaving oil or ice on the pad, which reduces grip
- treating the pad as a replacement for lashings
Questions to ask your supplier
What load rating applies to each pad size? What hardness and material is used? Can pads be made to a custom size, colour or pattern? Are they oil and chemical resistant? How are they supplied, and in what quantities?
Diode Trading EST supplies polyurethane and rubber cargo pads from its Dammam warehouse to ports, marine and oilfield customers across Saudi Arabia, and every order ships with a Material Test Certificate. Request a quote.
Frequently asked questions
What are cargo grip container pads?
PU or rubber pads placed under cargo to prevent sliding and protect surfaces.
Are PU pads better than timber dunnage?
They are more durable, grip better and can be reused. Timber is cheaper but weaker.
Do the pads resist oil?
High-density polyurethane resists many oils. Confirm for your fluid.
Can pads be made to a custom size?
Send your cargo dimensions and weight for a recommendation.
Related guides: Polyurethane Guide · Wheel Stoppers and Chocks · Rubber Mats and Tiles
Explore the product range: Cargo Grip Container Pads · Polyurethane Rods, Sheets and Wheels
Need a price or lead time? Request a quote with sizes, quantity and delivery city in Saudi Arabia.