The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) publishes and revises cargo securement rules for USA and Canada. These rules and regulations result from thorough research and meetings involving US and Canadian industry experts, Federal, State, and Provincial enforcement officials, and other interested parties. However, the common person can always misinterpret these rules and give them a whole new meaning, leading to myths that can be harmful to you while in the line of duty.
Here are some cargo securement myths that can cause you expensive fines or, worse, get you kicked out of the service!
Myth #1- The Working Load Limit (WLL) Tag on Tiedowns is Necessary!
Truth: According to the new rules (released in 2002), there is no prohibition on using untagged tie-downs, whether welded steel chains or others. However, there is a provision of working load capacities to prevent potential safety hazards of motor carriers with unmarked tie-downs. These provisions are as follows-
- Unmarked welded steel chains should have a working load limit equal to that of grade 30 proof coil.
- Other tie-down types must have a working load limit equal to the lowest rating for their kind in the grade table.
Myth #2- There is No Rule for Using Edge Protection for Tiedowns.
Truth: Edge protection is crucial as it protects against damage to the tie-downs as well as the articles in the cargo. The new regulations need you to use edge protection whenever the tie-downs will be subject to abrasion or cutting where it touches the article of the shipment. The edge protection must be abrasion, cutting, and crushing-resistant.
Myth #3- Anchor Points Should be Marked and Rated!
Truth: While the agencies encourage the manufacturers to rate and mark the anchor points, the new cargo securement rules by FMCSA do not include any such requirement.
Myth #4- Vehicles Should be Equipped with Front-End Structures!
Truth: It was an old rule where the vehicles were required to have front-end structures even if the devices were not used as a part of the cargo securement system. However, the revised regulations by FMCSA regarding the header boards or front-end structures have changed the applicability of the rule, giving you more flexibility. You should cover the CMVs transporting cargo only if the articles are in contact with the front-end structure of the vehicle.
Myth #5- Lever-Style or Over-Center Chain Binders are Illegal.
Truth: Lever-style binders or bear traps are not preferred by most shippers as they can potentially damage the cargo. However, there is no regulatory exclusion for them. Even then, you should be cautious to not over-tighten the lever or use a cinch bar to pull them close, over-stressing the chain or anchor point. You should be extra careful to not damage the short cargo chains when using them for securing the cargo.
About Silver Moon Trailer
At Silver Moon Trailer, we have an option suitable for every need, budget, and cargo requirement. And if you still can’t find the right trailer for yourself, we will build a custom trailer to match your requirements. If you want to purchase a utility trailer or know more about it, call us at 870.330.9133 or email us at silvermoontrailers@gmail.com.