Load Securement Tips

Truck drivers have a critical role when it comes to load securement, Here we discuss some important tips that can help you prevent cargo damage, crashes and potential D.O.T violations.

The first step in proper cargo securement is to choose the right equipment. Make sure that you have the proper tie-downs, chains, straps, and other equipment necessary to secure your load.

The equipment you use should be rated to handle the weight and size of your cargo. It's also important to make sure that your equipment is in good condition and free from any defects or damage.

Be sure to check your straps or chains for any defect or damage prior to each use. Inspect webbing for damage from heat, acid and punctures. Make sure that there are no abrasions, breaks or cuts and ensure that all tags are present and easy to read.

If using chain tiedowns, be sure that no links are bent, twisted, stretched, worn, heat-damaged or nicked.  

Once you have the right equipment, the next step is to position your cargo correctly. Make sure that the weight of your cargo is evenly distributed throughout your trailer.

This will help to prevent your cargo from shifting during transit. Also, make sure that your cargo is positioned as low as possible to improve stability.

FMCSA load securement regulations required that the tie-downs that you use to secure your load should be rated to handle at least 50% of the weight of your cargo.

You should use as many tie-downs or cargo securement devices as necessary to secure your load. You'll never receive a D.O.T violation for using too many tiedowns. More is almost always better. 

Refer to the FMCSA Load Securement Handbook to help calculate working load limits and determine proper securement methods.   

Check your tie-downs regularly during your trip to ensure that they are still tight and that your cargo hasn't shifted. If you notice that your cargo has shifted, you should pull over and adjust your tie-downs as necessary.

Using edge protectors can prevent the web tie-downs from damaging your cargo and the cargo from damaging your semi trailer straps. If the cargo is rough or sharp, DOT load securement regulations require that you use edge protectors to prevent strap abrasion. 

If you're carrying cargo that could roll or move, such as a large cylinder or pipe, you should use chocks and blocks to prevent it from shifting. Chocks and blocks are critical flatbed load securement equipment, and they should be placed in front of and behind your cargo to prevent it from moving.

Load bars can be used to create a barrier between your cargo and the walls of your van trailer. Load bars can be adjusted to fit the width of your trailer to help prevent cargo from shifting during transit. Use at least 2 load bars in case one fails. Set the first about 24 inches off of the deck and then place a second one well above it.  

If you're carrying loose items such as boxes or bags, you should make sure that they are properly secured. Use netting or straps to keep boxes or loose items in place. It's your responsibility to make sure that your load is properly secured, so take the time to do it right. By securing your load properly you can help to ensure that your cargo arrives at its destination safely and damage free.