Cargo Securement and Weight Distribution
Weight limits and distribution
Federal limits are 80,000 lb gross, 20,000 lb per axle, and 34,000 lb per tandem axle. Weight must be distributed so no axle is overloaded and the steer axle retains enough weight for steering control (typically at least 12,000 lb on a loaded tractor). Load too far back and you overload the trailer tandems; too far forward and you overload the steer axle.
Securement rules
Cargo must be secured with tiedowns whose working load limit meets or exceeds the cargo weight. The general rule is one tiedown per 10 feet of cargo length, with a minimum of two. The aggregate working load limit of all tiedowns must be at least half the cargo weight. Headboards, blocking, and bracing help prevent shifting.
Traps
- A frequent trap asks about the minimum number of tiedowns: two, regardless of length, for cargo over 5 feet.
- Another trap: assuming the gross weight limit is the only limit. Axle and tandem limits are just as important and are the usual cause of weigh-station violations.
- Questions about load placement often test the steer-axle minimum.
Rule of thumb
Load it low, load it centered, and check every axle - not just the gross weight.