CDL · General Knowledge · 8 min read
Securing Ordinary and Special Loads
- Identify proper methods for securing cargo using blocking, bracing, tie-downs, and front-end header boards.
- Explain the safety rules and inspection requirements for cargo covers, containerized freight, and sealed loads.
- Describe the handling hazards and operating precautions required for special loads, including dry bulk tanks, hanging meat, livestock, and oversized cargo.
Basic Cargo Securement: Blocking, Bracing, and Tie-Downs
Proper cargo securement is a fundamental responsibility for every commercial driver. When cargo is loaded onto or into a commercial vehicle, forces generated during braking, turning, and acceleration work to push that cargo out of place. To keep freight in position and maintain vehicle control, drivers rely on two primary mechanical containment methods: blocking and bracing. Blocking is used in the front, back, and/or sides of a piece of cargo to keep it from sliding across the vehicle floor. To work effectively, blocking must be shaped to fit snugly against the cargo, and it must be secured directly to the cargo deck to prevent cargo movement.
While blocking keeps the base of an item from sliding along the floor, bracing is used to prevent the movement of cargo by supporting it higher up. Bracing goes from the upper part of the cargo down to the floor of the cargo compartment, or from the upper part of the cargo across to the walls of the cargo compartment. By bracing cargo against these solid structures of the vehicle body, drivers prevent tall or top-heavy freight from shifting or tipping over while in transit.
Tie-downs are another critical securement tool used to hold cargo firmly against the deck. The general rule for cargo securement states that cargo should have at least one tie-down for each ten feet of cargo. Make sure each piece of cargo has at least one tie-down for each ten feet of cargo, and at least two tie-downs no matter how small it is. However, there is an essential minimum rule that drivers must never overlook: no matter how small the cargo is, it should have at least two tie-downs. No matter how small a piece of cargo is, it should have at least two tie-downs.
In addition to standard general freight rules, there are special requirements for securing various heavy pieces of metal. Heavy metal freight presents severe safety hazards if it shifts or breaks loose during transit. Because standard securing techniques may not be enough, drivers must find out what the special requirements are if they carry heavy pieces of metal before departing on a trip.
| Securement Method | Placement on Cargo | Attachment Point | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blocking | Front, back, and/or sides of the cargo; shaped to fit snugly | Secured directly to the cargo deck | Keeps cargo from sliding across the deck |
| Bracing | Upper part of the cargo | Goes to the floor or walls of the cargo compartment | Prevents movement and tipping of cargo |
Common mistakes
- Using only one tie-down on short cargo: Some drivers assume that a piece of cargo under ten feet long only requires a single tie-down. The rule requires at least one tie-down per ten feet, but no matter how small the cargo is, it should have at least two tie-downs.
- Neglecting weight checks on sealed loads: Because drivers cannot inspect the interior of a sealed load, some assume they have no securement or loading responsibilities. Drivers must always check that sealed loads do not exceed gross weight limits or axle weight limits.
- Assuming false bulkheads eliminate rollover risk with livestock: False bulkheads keep animals bunched together in partial loads, but livestock can still lean together on curves. This leaning shifts the center of gravity and makes a rollover more likely.
- Failing to monitor cargo covers while in transit: Drivers sometimes secure a tarp before departure and forget to check it again. Drivers should look at their cargo covers in their mirrors from time to time because a flapping cover can tear loose, uncover cargo, or block their view or someone else's view.
Key points
- Blocking is secured directly to the cargo deck at the front, back, and/or sides to fit snugly and prevent cargo from sliding, while bracing runs from the upper cargo to the floor or walls to prevent movement.
- Cargo requires at least one tie-down for each ten feet of cargo, and no matter how small the cargo is, it should have at least two tie-downs; special requirements apply when securing heavy pieces of metal.
- Front-end header boards (headache racks) protect the driver during crashes or emergency stops by blocking forward cargo movement and must be maintained in good condition.
- Cargo covers protect people from spilled cargo and protect freight from weather; drivers must check covers in their mirrors from time to time to keep flapping covers from tearing loose and blocking views.
- Some containers have tie-down devices or locks that attach to a special frame; others are loaded onto flatbeds and must be properly secured like other cargo. For sealed loads, check gross weight and axle weight limits.
- Dry bulk tanks and hanging meat have a high center of gravity and need slow, careful handling on curves; livestock can lean on curves, shifting the center of gravity and increasing rollover risk.
- Over-length, over-width, and overweight loads require special transit permits and special driving care. Driving is usually limited to certain times; special equipment may be necessary, and some loads may require a police escort or pilot vehicles.
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