Cargo and Load Securement
What this domain tests
Cargo and Load Securement tests whether you can load a vehicle so it stays within weight limits and does not shift. The exam covers gross vehicle weight rating, axle limits, load distribution, tiedown requirements, and working load limit. A load that is legal at the scale can still be unsafe if it is poorly secured.
Weight and distribution
Know the gross vehicle weight rating and the axle weight ratings. Do not exceed either. Distribute the load so that the front axle is not too light, which reduces steering traction, and the rear axle is not overloaded. Keep the center of gravity low and centered. A high, heavy load raises the rollover risk. Load against the headboard when possible and fill gaps so the cargo cannot slide forward or sideways.
Tiedowns and working load limit
Use the minimum number of tiedowns and the required aggregate working load limit. For articles 5 feet or shorter and 1,100 pounds or lighter, at least one tiedown is required. For articles longer than 5 feet or heavier than 1,100 pounds, at least two tiedowns are required. The aggregate working load limit of all tiedowns must be at least 50 percent of the cargo weight. Check the tiedown labels; a strap is not automatically strong enough because it looks thick.
Rechecks
Stop and recheck the load after the first few miles, after a sharp turn, and after any hard braking. Cargo settles, straps stretch, and knots loosen. Check the load again at fuel stops. If you hear a shift or see a strap slack, stop and fix it before continuing.
Worked example
You are securing a 12-foot pipe that weighs 800 pounds. The length is over 5 feet, so at least two tiedowns are required. The aggregate working load limit must be at least 400 pounds, which is half of 800. If each strap has a working load limit of 250 pounds, two straps give 500 pounds and meet the aggregate requirement. The reasoning is not “two straps is enough”; the number of tiedowns and the strength of the tiedowns are separate tests.
Traps that cost marks
Counting tiedowns without checking their working load limit is a common error. Do not assume an enclosed trailer removes the need to secure cargo; a load can shift inside and affect the vehicle. Overloading one axle while staying under gross weight is still a violation. Never use damaged straps or knots that can slip.