Airbags are supplied in two different materials, either rubber or paper. They are deployed in a deflated state in gaps between different cargo units, mainly in the fore and aft direction. After careful positioning, they are inflated with air using high-pressure hoses and pumps.

By filling the gaps they ensure that the cargo does not shift during sea passage and, consequently, provide a safe and damage-preventing manner of lashing and securing without the use of cables, ropes and wooden dunnage. Prior to discharge, the airbags are deflated and removed, permitting easy unloading of the goods.