The invention concerns a method for connecting the belt ends (9, 10) of transport belts (1) using a closure aid (13) that comprises a plurality of closure aid elements (14, 15) that are fastened at a distance from one another in the region of the two belt ends (9, 10) in such a way that they link the belt ends (9, 10), the closure aid elements (14, 15) having tensioning elements (23) that pull the belt ends (9, 10) toward one another, and the belt ends (9, 10) then being connected to one another by means of coupling elements (11, 12) and the closure aid (13) then being removed from the transport belt (1). Lashing straps (14, 15) having a lashing mechanism (23) are used as closure aid elements, actuation thereof reducing the distance between the belt ends (9, 10).The invention further concerns a transport belt (1) having coupling elements (11, 12) mounted on its front belt ends (9, 10), and a closure aid (13) for temporary connection of the front belt ends (9, 10) of the transport belt (1).