Flatbed trucking plays an important role in the transportation industry, especially in the hauling of large, heavy, and oddly-shaped freight. Unlike enclosed trailers, there will be no walls or roof to keep the cargo confined inside the flatbed trailers. Because of this open design, load securement becomes one of the most critical responsibilities for drivers, carriers and dispatchers. Proper securement ensures that freight isn’t going places it shouldn’t while in transit, not only for the safety of the driver or the cargo, but for the safety of all who are driving around on the road.
Understanding the basics of how to secure cargo on the flatbed helps prevent accidents, damages to cargo and expensive violations. In this guide, we’ll explore what load securement is, the importance of securement, and the important tools and techniques of flatbed trucking.
What Is Load Securement?
Load securement is a process of securing cargo safely to the trailer and preventing movement of the cargo during transportation. In the case of flatbed trucking, the freight is usually secured with chains, straps, binders, tarps, edge protectors and other equipment.
Because flatbed loads are exposed and they are often oversized or heavy, they need extra attention. Drivers are responsible for making sure that the cargo won’t move to the other side, if they move, tip or fall off the trailer, while the truck is moving, braking or turning.
Proper load securement can be done while following safety guidelines established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This is the regulations that ensure that cargo is transported safely on highways.
Why Securement of Loads Is Important
Road Safety
Cargo that is not secured well can shift or fall off the trailer, leading to a hazardous situation for other vehicles. On the roadway, when it comes to securing the car, it means that not only does the pull-up reduce the risk of accidents, but it also protects the safety of everyone who is on the road.
Protecting the Freight
Many flatbed loads contain expensive material, like steel, lumber, machinery or construction equipment. Proper securement to prevent damage to the cargo during transit
Compliance Against Regulations
Truck drivers and carriers must comply with the rules of the FMCSA regarding cargo. Failure to comply can result in fines, out-of-service violations and legal problems.
Preventing Load Shifting
Cargo can be moved by sudden braking, taking sharp turns, and traveling on uneven roads. Securement systems hold the freight secure throughout the trip.
Professional Reputation
Drivers and trucking companies known for safe handling of cargo receive trust from brokers, shippers and customers.
Common Types of Freight on Flatbed Trucks
Flatbed trailers are typically used to haul freight that is not tall enough for regular trailers. Some examples include:
- Steel coils and metal sheets
- Lumber and/or construction materials
- Pipes and building supplies
- Heavy machinery – heavy equipment, if they work
- Automobile parts and industrial products
- Prefabricated structures
These loads are often unique in shape and size and thus require the securement to be even more important.
Essential Load Securement Equipment
Flat-bed drivers have a wide range of tools to hold the cargo in place effectively.
Chains
The chains are used for heavy loads like machinery, steel, or construction equipment. They are highly strong and long-lasting.
Ratchet Straps
Ratchet straps are usually for smaller freight consisting of lumber, pallets, or building material. They permit drivers to secure the load tightly.
Binders
Binders are used with chains to tighten and lock heavy cargo. Two types are common – ratchet binders and lever binders.
Edge Protectors
Edge protectors shield straps from getting damaged by the sharp corners on them and help share the pressure across the cargo.
Tarps
Tarps are used to protect freight from rain, wind, snow and debris on the road. They are vital in particular with regards to sensitive materials.
Dunnage
Dunnage means blocks of wood or rubber mats that are put between the cargo and the trailer to provide stability and prevent the cargo from moving.
Basic Load Securement Rules
Following basic security cargo rules helps to maintain safety and compliance.
Utilize Correct Numbers of Tie-Downs
FMCSA regulations have established that there must be a minimum number of tie-downs depending on the weight/length of the cargo being transported.
For example:
- Loads under 5 feet and 1,100 pounds may require 1 tie down.
- Loads exceeding 10 feet will normally need at least two tie-downs
- Additional tie-downs may be needed depending on the weight of the cargo.
Distribute Weight Evenly
Freight should be distributed evenly across the trailer to be balanced and not to overload one side of the trailer.
Prevent Forward Movement
Cargos need to be strapped down to stop them from moving forward when there is a sudden braking action.
Check Securement Regularly
Drivers must check the load during the first 50 miles of travel and periodically during the trip to ensure that it is secure.
Protect Tie-Downs
Use edge protectors or padding so that the straps and chains will not get cut by the sharp edges.
Common Load Securement Errors
Even older drivers do make errors from time to time. Some common issues include:
Using too few tie-downs
Not having a sufficient number of straps or chains can cause cargo to move.
Loose securement equipment
If straps or chains are not tight properly, a load is likely to move during transit.
Fresh Press Hydraulic Pump: Ignoring weight distribution
Uneven weight can cause the truck to be unstable and difficult to control.
Skipping inspections
It is possible to create dangerous situations when the load is not checked during the trip.
Avoiding these mistakes makes a safer job and the less risk there is of accidents.
Load Securement Weather Conditions
The weather can have an impact on the stability of cargo. For example:
- Rain can cause the surfaces to be slippery.
- Wind may affect tall or light loads.
- Snow and ice may decrease traction.
Drivers would have to add additional straps or resecure the securement more often in harsh weather conditions.
The Position of Drivers and Dispatchers
Both drivers and dispatchers both play an important role in load securement.
Drivers must make sure cargo is properly secured before starting the trip and perform regular inspections of the cargo during the trip.
Dispatchers lend a hand by making sure loads are suitable for available equipment and by working with shippers to make sure that loading is done properly.
It helps in keeping the work safe and efficient if they work together.
Conclusion
Flatbed load securement is one of the most important trucking safety practices. Because flatbed trailers lack walls and roofs, freight has to be adequately secured with the use of proper tools and techniques.
By following proper procedures, using quality pieces of equipment, and doing regular inspections, drivers may prevent the movement of cargo, protect freight, and provide a safe transportation on the road.
Whether carrying steel, lumber, machinery, and oversized freight, knowledge about flatbed load securement fundamentals helps keep drivers, cargo and highways safe.
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