Cargo Securement, Weight, and Load Limits
Know the weight numbers
GVWR is the maximum loaded weight of the vehicle itself; GCWR covers the power unit plus trailer. Neither is payload. Federal limits are 80,000 pounds gross, 20,000 on a single axle, and 34,000 on a tandem, with the bridge formula governing axle spacing. Alaska permits higher weights on designated routes and during certain seasons, so always confirm the permit and the route before loading. Scales weigh axles individually - being under gross while over on a steer or drive axle is still a violation.
Securement essentials
Aggregate working load limit of all tie-downs must be at least half the cargo weight. Minimum tie-down counts: one for articles up to 5 feet and 1,100 pounds; two for articles up to 10 feet or over 1,100 pounds; two plus one for each additional 10 feet beyond that. Use edge protection, secure the heaviest items low and centered, and check the load again shortly after starting, then periodically.
Overhang and flags
Cargo may not extend more than 4 feet ahead of the front bumper. Rear overhang beyond 4 feet needs a 12-inch square red or orange flag, and at night a red light.
Traps
Answers that assume GVWR equals payload, that count straps rather than aggregate working load limit, or that forget axle weights entirely.
Worked example
A 10,000-pound load needs at least 5,000 pounds of aggregate working load limit. Four straps rated at 5,000 pounds each give 20,000 pounds - ample. Two straps rated at 2,000 pounds give only 4,000 and fail.