Proper Load Binding

Transporting cargo on a flatbed or open-deck trailer is a serious task that requires proper load binding procedures to ensure the safety of the driver as well as other drivers on the road. The consequences of an improperly-secured load falling off a trailer can be severe, if not deadly. Not only can objects hit and damage vehicles behind the trailer, but they can also cause damage to property adjacent to the roadway. Even worse, a sudden shift of a load can cause the driver to lose control, resulting in a single-vehicle accident.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCS) has a complete list of rules and regulations surrounding cargo securement, and there are also state and local regulations that every commercial driver should be aware of before getting into their cab.

Therefore, understanding how to immobilize any loads you haul is critical, whether you drive for a company, rent a flatbed semi-trailer or have your own equipment. Read on to learn about proper load binding, so you can secure cargo the right way.

Proper load binding best practices

The open design of the trailer provides easy access to load and unload goods, but it also poses the risk of cargo shifting or falling off during transit. Take these precautions before hitting the road:

Consider the characteristics of the load

Think about characteristics like weight, shape, and wind resistance, all of which can affect how likely it is to shift during the journey. To ensure a safe and successful trip, it's crucial to consider how the load could shift when accelerating, stopping, and turning. Also, be sure to familiarize yourself with any applicable laws or regulations regarding the load, particularly if it's especially large or heavy.

Transporting an excavator is going to be very different than transporting 100 steel pipes, and will require different securing methods for a safe trip.

Evenly distribute the load

Proper cargo distribution is critical when loading your trailer. It's essential to distribute the load evenly across the bed to ensure safe transport. When packing your cargo, make sure to start by placing heavier items on the trailer bed and stack lighter materials on top. This technique will prevent the weight from becoming mismanaged and will also assist in minimizing the risk of tipping over or swaying while driving.

Use the right tie-down equipment

when loading heavy equipment over 10,000 pounds, the FMCSA requires a minimum four tie-downs to be used on independent corners. For 30,000 pounds of cargo (for example), you must secure one half of the total weight, or at least 15,000 pounds. With four tie downs on each corner, these must have a working load limit rated at a minimum of 3,750 pounds. Binders are also rated and marked, and are required to meet the minimum standard of the working load limit of the chain you are using. Boom loaders require a separate tie down for accessory equipment with some exceptions for smaller equipment or equipment with a transport lock. Loose chains or damaged chains should always be inspected and replaced if necessary For machinery, anything less than 10,000 pounds requires (1) tie down in the front and (1) tie down in the rear To satisfy federal regulations, as long as tie downs have a weight rating, you may use chains or straps. Equipment manufacturers typically have their own securement specifications and tie down points to be aware of Flags or lights at night may be required if equipment extends 4-inches over the side, or 4 feet beyond the rear When in doubt, it’s always a good practice to use another chain or strap Use a chain gauge to monitor your chain’s links, especially for load-bearing portions Cargo should have at least one tie-down for each 10 feet of cargo. Make sure you have enough tie-downs to meet this need. No matter how small the cargo, it should have at least 2 tie-downs. There are special requirements for securing various heavy pieces of metal. Find out what they are if you are to carry such loads. Rules governing the loading and securement of logs, dressed lumber, metal coils, paper rolls, concrete pipe, intermodal containers, automobiles, heavy vehicles, flattened or crushed vehicles, roll-on/roll-off containers, and large boulders are contained in CFR, Title 49 §393.

Choosing the right items for the job is crucial to ensure your load is secured during transportation. Chains are a popular restraint due to their strength, but they can cause damage to certain types of loads. Straps and ropes are a gentler option, but they may not be as strong as chains. If you are transporting items that can roll, such as pipes or vehicles, wedges, blocks, and chocks can be an essential part of your strategy. Nets also come in handy when securing loose materials. Knowing the weight limits of your chosen restraints is vital to prevent accidents and ensure your load arrives safely. It's important to consider each option and choose the most suitable restraints for your specific needs.

• Chains: Strong, won't fray or stretch, and can't be damaged or affected by UV and the elements.
• Webbing (such as ratchet straps): Stores compactly when not in use, much lighter weight than chains, can wrap in tight places where chains might not fit.
• Tarps: Use in tandem with chains or straps, both protects and contains cargo.

Use cushioning when necessary

Cushioning between items can help prevent the risk of items falling off, but it can also protect them from damage caused by shifting during the trip. Even if items are properly secured, unexpected movement can occur during transport. So, taking the extra step to add cushioning where needed can help to keep your cargo safe and damage-free.

Cover the load when necessary

If not properly secured, items can be blown off by the wind or damaged during transit. For this reason, it's essential to cover the load with a tarp or other covering. Not only does this protect the items from the elements, but it also prevents damage caused by the force of the wind. Properly securing the covering is equally important. Ensure that it's firmly tied down, with no loose flaps that can catch the wind.

Cargo should have at least one tie-down for each 10 feet of cargo. Make sure you have enough tie-downs to meet this need. No matter how small the cargo, it should have at least 2 tie-downs. There are special requirements for securing various heavy pieces of metal. Find out what they are if you are to carry such loads. Rules governing the loading and securement of logs, dressed lumber, metal coils, paper rolls, concrete pipe, intermodal containers, automobiles, heavy vehicles, flattened or crushed vehicles, roll-on/roll-off containers, and large boulders are contained in CFR, Title 49 §393. It is against the law to operate on the highway a vehicle which is improperly covered, constructed, or loaded so that any part of its contents or load spills, drops, leaks, blows, sifts, or in any other way escapes from the vehicle. EXCEPTION: clear water or feathers from live birds (CVC §§23114 and 23115). Any vehicle transporting garbage, trash, rubbish, ashes, etc., must have the load covered to prevent any part of the load from spilling on to the highway. Aggregate material must be carried in the cargo area of the vehicle and be 6 inches below the upper edge. The cargo area must not have any holes, cracks, or openings which could allow the material to escape. The vehicle used to transport aggregate material must be equipped with seals on any openings used to empty the load, splash flaps behind every tire or set of tires, and fenders. Other requirements are listed in CVC §23114. This does not apply to vehicles carrying wet, waste fruit, or vegetable matter, or waste from food processing plants. Any person who willfully or negligently damages any street or highway is liable for the cost of repairing the road or any sign, signal, guard rail, or other facility that is damaged. The liability may include the cost of removing debris from the roadway. 3.4.6 – Projecting Loads Lights (or Flags) on Projecting Loads. When the load on any vehicle extends 4 feet (48 inches) or more beyond the rear of the body, a solid red or fluorescent orange flag at least 12 inches square must be placed at the extreme end of the load. If the vehicle is operated during darkness, there must be 2 lit red lights at the end of the load, visible at a distance of 500 feet to the side and rear of the vehicle (CVC §24604). A load extending 1 foot or more to the left on any vehicle must have an amber light on the extreme left side of the load. It must be visible at least 300 feet to the front and rear during darkness. If the load extends more than 120 inches, there must be an amber lamp at the front and a red lamp at the rear, each visible at least 300 feet. If the vehicle is wider than 102 inches, a red or fluorescent flag not less than 12 inches square must be displayed at the left front and left rear during daylight (CVC §25104).

Check the load periodically as you travel

One small shift or damaged restraint could lead to disastrous consequences on the road. That's why it's important to check your load periodically as you drive, especially during long treks. Make it a habit to walk around your trailer every time you stop for gas, food or a rest break. Look for any signs that your load is shifting, restraints are being damaged, or if anything seems out of place. To be extra prepared, bring along extra restraints so you can replace or reinforce any that may be compromised.

Get the gear you need to secure heavy cargo at Discount Ramps

Getting ready to haul a heavy load in a flatbed or open trailer? Put safety first and invest in high-quality gear that ensures your cargo is completely secure, no matter how far you’re traveling. Need help finding the right gear for your applications? Reach out to the friendly staff at Discount Ramps—we’re happy to help!