Inspecting and Securing Cargo on Combination Vehicles
Inspecting and Securing Cargo on Combination Vehicles
This domain tests cargo securement under federal rules and the extra stability problems of a tractor-trailer. The exam focuses on working load limit, number of tie-downs, load distribution, and inspection during the trip.
Core rules
- Cargo must be secured so it cannot shift, fall, or leak.
- Each tie-down has a working load limit. The combined working load limit must be at least half the cargo weight, and the securement system must be rated for the load.
- Use the minimum number of tie-downs: generally one for a short, light article; two for longer or heavier articles; more for long cargo at intervals.
- Anchor to the trailer's securement points, not to weak body panels.
- Distribute weight within axle and gross limits; slide the tandems when legal and needed.
- Do not obscure lights, reflectors, or plates.
- Recheck tie-downs after the first miles and periodically.
Worked example
A 20-foot steel load weighs 8,000 pounds. The driver uses two chains with a working load limit of 1,500 pounds each. The aggregate working load limit is 3,000 pounds, which is less than half the load, 4,000 pounds, and the number of tie-downs is likely short for the length. The load fails the securement check. The fix is more or stronger tie-downs, with the aggregate working load limit at least 4,000 pounds and the tie-down count meeting the length rule.
Traps
- Counting tie-downs without checking working load limit.
- Attaching to sheet metal or a weak point.
- Overloading one axle.
- Forgetting to re-tighten.
- Letting cargo block lights or plates.
Key points
- Aggregate working load limit at least half the cargo weight.
- More tie-downs for longer cargo.
- Anchor to rated points.
- Keep loads within axle limits.
- Recheck securement during the trip.