Transporting Cargo Safely
Transporting Cargo Safely
This domain tests securement, weight distribution, and inspection. The exam wants you to know that cargo must not shift, spill, or obscure lights and plates, and that axle and gross weights must stay legal.
Securement rules
Use tiedowns with a working load limit (WLL). The combined WLL of all tiedowns must be at least 50% of the cargo weight. For articles longer than 5 feet but not more than 10 feet, use at least two tiedowns; for longer articles, add one tiedown for each additional 10 feet, with end tiedowns within 5 feet of each end. Secure the load against forward, rearward, and sideways movement.
Weight and balance
Place heavy freight low and centered, and load against a headboard when possible. Check axle weights, not just total weight. Slide the tandem or fifth wheel only within the manufacturer's limits.
Worked example
A 10,000-pound crate needs tiedowns with a combined WLL of at least 5,000 pounds. Two tiedowns rated 2,500 pounds each meet the aggregate rule, but the length rule may still require more tiedowns. A 12-foot crate needs two end tiedowns plus one additional tiedown, even if the two end straps alone exceed 5,000 pounds.
Inspection
Recheck cargo within the first 50 miles and every 150 miles or 3 hours afterward. Stop and fix loose straps, shifted loads, or damaged tie-down points.
Traps that cost marks
- Thinking each tiedown must be rated at 50% of the load.
- Forgetting the length-based tiedown count.
- Loading to the gross limit but overloading one axle.
- Covering clearance lights or the license plate.