Load Securement

Mastering Load Securement for Flatbed Trailers in Canada

1) The Initial Load Assessment

When it comes to load securement on flatbed trailers, a thorough initial assessment is your first line of defence. Here's how to ensure your cargo is safely strapped down:

• Load Weight Calculation:

  • Load the flatbed trailer with cargo and ask the shipper for the weight.

  • Divide total cargo weight by the load capacity of an individual chain or strap.

  • Important: Know the ratings of your straps and chains when purchasing.

Example: For a 50,000-pound load, you'd need 10 chains or straps, calculated as follows:

• Number of Straps / Chains=

Total Weight of Cargo

Load Capacity of Individual Chain or Strap

• Additional rules:

  • Use 2 straps within the first 5 feet from the front of the load.

  • Use at least 1 strap for pieces shorter than 10 feet.

  • Add 1 strap for every 10 feet after the first 5.

Straps

Straps play a crucial role in load securement. Here are key details:

• 4-inch straps (most common): 5400 pounds

• 3-inch straps: 5000 pounds

• 2-inch straps: 3333 pounds

Picture 3: Chains and Binders

For heavier loads, such as aluminum or steel coils and farm equipment, chains and binders are essential. Consider these weight ratings:

• 5/16 inch grade chain (16-25 inches): 4700 pounds

• 3/8 inch grade chain (16-25 inches): 6600 pounds

• 1/2 inch grade chain (16-25 inches): 11300 pounds

Picture 4: Rope

While rope isn't a preferred securement method, it has its uses for lighter loads, especially in situations where other gear might be scarce. Be cautious and check weight ratings and for frays with each use.

Picture 5: Corner Protectors

Protect the edges of your cargo with suitable corner protectors, using plastic for straps and rope and metal for chains.

2) Setting up the Load

Before tying down the load, ensure proper setup:

• Inspect the load position, aligning each piece with at least two winches on the trailer's side.

• Use two straps over each piece prone to damage by chains, and two chains with two binders for other cargo.

• Cover all cargo edges with protective materials to prevent damage during tightening.

3) Tying Down the Load

Follow these steps for effective strap tie-downs:

• Thread the strap through the safety (ICC) bumper from the top.

• Rotate the hook, throw the strap across the load.

• Use protectors if the load is sharp.

• Thread the strap through the winch, fold up the slack, and wind it in using the winch.

• Insert the winch bar into the hole on the side of the winch, bringing it down until the strap is tight.

4) Securing with Chains or Binders

When securing with chains and binders, know your chain's weight ratings and follow these steps:

• Choose the appropriate chain method based on the type of load.

• Ensure hooks are attached to the load or wrapped around a post hole, then hooked back onto the chain.

• Tighten the chain, attach a binder, and secure the slack with a bungee.

After safely securing your load, consider moving on to tarping if it's part of the job. Mastering load securement is a crucial aspect of ensuring safety and compliance on the road.

Skipper Transport's dedication to safety:

• Cargo Insight: Tailoring approaches for different cargo types.

• Flatbed Check: Thorough pre-loading inspections for optimal conditions.

• Smart Equipment Choice: Science-backed selection of tie-downs, chains, etc.

• Load securement: Balancing weight, ensuring safety, and visibility.

• Next-Level Securement: Advanced methods surpassing standard requirements.

• Double-Check Protocol: Rigorous pre-departure and in-transit checks.

• Continuous Monitoring: Vigilance with an impressive 98% on-time delivery rate.