Load securement is the process of properly securing cargo for transport in order to protect cargo and drivers from any potential damages or safety hazards. If you’re looking to learn more about flatbed load securement, read on for a detailed explanation of the basics, as well as helpful tips for ensuring your cargo is properly secured.

Basics of Load Securement 

When it comes to load securement, there are two main principles that must be adhered to: all shipments must be adequately secured, and the restraints used must prevent any movement of the cargo. To achieve this, a range of equipment, such as 4” winch straps, transport chain, dunnage, plastic or steel edge protectors, load binders, and automatic chain binder, can be used to ensure cargo remains safely in place during transit. Depending on the item being transported, different types of cargo securement equipment may be needed; for example, heavier equipment often requires ⅜ to ½ transport chain. 

Tips for Load Securement 

When securing cargo with straps and transport chains, it's important to apply the right amount of tension to prevent load shedding within the chain itself. excessive Load shedding results in chains coming loose during transit. Dynamic events that cause trailer flexing will transfer the load in each chain from anchor point to anchor point.

Similarly, when using dunnage, they should be placed on the part of the trailer that the cargo is placed on. This location is typically identified on the side of each flatbed trailer deck. Dunnage, refers to materials that keep cargo in place on the trailer deck. The most common dunnage used on a flatbed trailer are 8’ 4x4 hardwood lumber and 4x4 beveled hardwood coil lumber.

OSHA Standards

It’s worth noting that all forms of securement must meet certain standards outlined by regulatory bodies such as OSHA's Cargo Securement rules or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's guidelines. These standards cover material strength requirements (e.g., steel vs. nylon) to acceptable lengths for ties/straps, etc. Ultimately, by following these standards, shippers/carriers can ensure their loads remain safe throughout transit while avoiding fines/penalties due to noncompliance down the line!

Popular Cargo Securement Equipment

The Revolok 6600 is an innovative, drill powered chain binder that sets the highest standard for cargo load securement. Its patented design ensures equal tension on every chain creating an equilibrium on the cargo being secured, making it the optimal choice for safety and peace of mind.

Its compact size and handle free design make it easy to use in any situation, whether transporting steel coils or heavy equipment. The Revolok 6600 can be counted on to provide reliable chain securement no matter where your journey takes you.

Benefits of Revolok 6600

Using Revolok Chain and Binder Sets has many great benefits to the long-term success of a trucking company. The first is reduced load and unload times which can increase the earning potential for truck drivers eager to pick up more loads. Alternatively load check times can be drastically reduced with this system as well. 

Additionally, Revolok Chain and Binder Sets can reduce workers comp costs and reduce the learning curve of chain securement for new drivers. This drill powered chain binder eliminates having to manually tension the chain increasing the quality of life for its users. 

In conclusion, proper load securement is essential for ensuring cargo arrives safely at its destination without any damage or harm caused by shifting/falling off trucks during transportation.