12 Jan Tips To Increase Cargo Securement

Tips To Increase Cargo Securement

All items carried on a truck need to be properly secured to prevent loss of cargo. Falling supplies has the potential to damage other vehicles and cause injury to other motorists. The top priority for the best trucking companies is to make sure each driver is carrying a safe load. Even when the cargo is improperly positioned, extreme damage can result. There are many cargo securement best practices for drivers that help improve or maintain their good driving record.

Secure Entire Load And Equipment

Every item must meet safe cargo securement principles and regulations. All cargo must be firmly immobilized on or within the vehicle. Not only must the load be secure, but all tools and equipment must be properly secured. Drivers must realize the importance of stabilizing shovels, brooms, ladders, forklifts toolboxes, and other work-related equipment that can fall or shift and cause significant damage or harm.

It’s also important to note that an enclosed storage area may not suffice as securement for the load. Large or heavy loads may need additional support and safety even when in an enclosed van or truck. The primary securement for loads cannot be tarp straps or Bungee cords. Properly approved securement tools must be used as the primary source of holding down equipment. Before your trip begins:

Inspect tie-downs for wear and damage. Even if properly secured, continued wear on the tie-downs may cause an unexpected snap of the strap or line.

Check all connecting fasteners and openings. Ensure that all securement pieces are working properly and have not loosened with age. Inspect all tie downs for damage. Any worn tie down or fasteners should be replaced immediately.

Keep a cargo securement list available in the cab. The list is a necessary part of every trip. Some of the most common cargo securement tips include:

• Inspect tailgate security. All mechanisms should open and securely close as designed without excessive force or rigging.
• Confirm end gates are locked in stake pockets.
• Check cargo on both sides of the truck to ensure the risk of shifting or falling has been eliminated.
• Verify proper blocking and bracing. A shifting load may not cause damage to another car or person, but it can severely damage the cargo.  
• Check tie down anchor points for wear or damage. Areas where a rope, strap, or chain need to be tied should be free from deformation, cracking, or other damage.

Perform a monthly inspection independent of your inspection that’s performed ahead of each trip. The monthly inspections should be a more complex, thorough look at the truck and all securement materials.

Remember that no shipment is typical. Each time you hit the road, you need to follow the best practices highlighted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). Build a system that works best for your travels. Incorporate your inspection list to each haul and make sure your load is free of risk from falling, blowing off, spilling, or leaking. Use these principals to avoid damaging other cars, hurting another driver, or harming your cargo.

Download Cargo Securement Flyer

Image: www.cvsa.org