Understanding DOT Load Securement Regulations

Load securement isn’t just about keeping your cargo safe; it’s about ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. Improperly secured loads can shift during transit, leading to accidents or causing the cargo to fall off the vehicle. This can result in severe injuries, fatalities, and costly damages.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a regulatory agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) that oversees commercial motor vehicles, over 200,000 accidents involving large trucks occur each year in the United States. Many of these accidents are due to load securement issues. This is why the DOT has strict regulations in place to prevent such incidents.

So what DOT standards are used to ensure proper load securement is being used?

Key DOT Load Securement Requirements

The FMSCA issued a Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) that is used by state and local authorities to enforce load securement standards. 

The specific CFR that focuses on load securement is 49 CFR part 393 which covers Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation of a commercial motor vehicle.  Part 393 covers everything including lights, windows, fuel system, emergency equipment etc.  And § 393.100 through § 393.136 covers Protection Against Shifting and Falling Cargo.

Proper Restraint Systems

Beginning in § 393.100 it spells out which motor vehicles are subject to the requirements, including:

• trucks
• truck tractors
• semitrailers
• full trailers
• pole trailers

All cargo must be secured using appropriate restraint systems, such as tie down straps, chains, or other devices. These systems must be strong enough to withstand the forces of transportation, including acceleration, deceleration, and turns.

• Explore our selection of Tie Down Equipment today!

From there it goes on to cover what standards tiedowns must comply to, how many are needed, how they are used, etc. § 393.102 discusses the performance criteria of tiedown assemblies in relation to their respective break strengths and working load limits (WLLs) when the following conditions act on the load:

Adequate Number of Tiedowns 

The number of tie-downs required depends on the length and weight of the cargo. For example, cargo shorter than 5 feet and weighing less than 1,100 pounds requires one tie-down. Cargo over 10 feet long requires at least two tie-downs, with additional tie-downs needed for longer or heavier cargo. There is also guidance in section 393.110 on determining how many tiedowns are needed based on the length of the cargo.

• READ: How Many Tie Downs Do I Need?

In §393.104 it states that all tiedowns made with webbing must conform to Web Sling and Tiedown Association’s, WSTDA, Recommended Standard Specification for Synthetic Web Tiedowns, WSTDA T-1 Standard.  This T-1 standard tells us how web tiedowns (i.e. ratchet straps) need to be manufactured, tested, labelled, inspected, and used.

This same section also states that all chain used for load securement must conform to National Association of Chain Manufacturers (NACM) Welded Steel Chain Specifications.  This NACM standard tells us how chain must be manufactured, dimensions, markings, inspection, etc.

Overall, these standards prohibit the use of damaged securement devices, as well as any weakened or damaged components, anchor points, or vehicle structures.

Rules for Different Load Securement Types

Section 393.106 covers general requirements for securing cargo, including determining how many tiedowns are needed using Aggregate Working Load Limits, and direct versus indirect tiedowns. 

• LEARN: Direct vs. Indirect Tiedowns

According to the section, the aggregate WLL of tiedowns used to secure cargo against movement must be at least one-half times the weight of the cargo. It goes into further detail on the aggregate working load limit sums.

The DOT also has specific load securement rules for different types of cargo, such as logs, pipes, boulders, and vehicles. Each type has unique securement requirements to address its specific challenges.

Logs, dressed lumber, metal coils, paper rolls, concrete pipe, intermodal containers, automobiles, heavy equipment, flattened or crushed vehicles, roll-off containers, and large boulders each require special load securement and have sections in 49 CFR dedicated to how each of those should be properly secured.

Common Load Securement Mistakes

Even experienced drivers and transport companies can make mistakes when it comes to load securement. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to avoid them:

• Using Inadequate Restraint Devices: Always use DOT-approved restraint devices and ensure they are rated for the weight of the cargo. Don’t rely on ropes or bungee cords, as they are often insufficient for securing heavy loads.

• Incorrect Placement of Tie-Downs: Ensure that tie-downs are placed in a way that secures the load from all directions. Improper placement can allow the cargo to shift during transit.

• Failing to Inspect Equipment: Regularly inspect all securement devices before each trip. Look for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage, and replace any compromised equipment immediately.

• Overlooking Load Distribution: Always check that the load is evenly distributed and properly balanced. An unbalanced load can cause the vehicle to tip over or become difficult to control.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with DOT load securement requirements can lead to a range of serious consequences that affect not only the driver and the company, but also public safety. In addition to legal consequences, non-compliance can also damage your company's reputation and lead to costly repairs or insurance claims. Here are a few potential consequences of non-compliance:

1. Citations and Fines: If a vehicle is found to be in violation, then the driver and the company can face significant fines. These vary depending on the severity of the violation, type of cargo, and the jurisdiction.
   
   
2. Out-of-Service (OOS) Orders: Inspectors will issue out-of-service orders if the vehicle's load is not properly secured. This can lead to costly delays, missed deliveries, and additional expenses for re-securing your cargo.
   
   
3. Increased Liability: Improperly secured cargo can wreak havoc on the road if it causes accidents and injury to others. This results in costly legal battles, settlements, or in severe cases, heavy fines and possibly imprisonment if negligence in load securement is found.
   
   
4. Damage to Cargo and Equipment: Improperly secured loads shift during transit, leading to damage of the cargo and tie down equipment. With damaged cargo, you run the risk of financial loss, dissatisfied customers, returns, and potentially losing future business.
   
   
5. Reputation and Customer Trust: News of fines, accidents or OOS orders can lead to a loss of trust among clients and partners. A tarnished reputation can make it harder to attract new business and retain existing customers.
   
   

Final Thoughts

DOT load securement requirements are in place for a reason: to keep roads safe for everyone. By following these regulations and taking the time to properly secure your cargo, you can avoid accidents, protect your cargo, and stay compliant with the law. Always stay informed about the latest regulations and best practices, and make load securement a priority on every trip.

By adhering to the FMCSA 49 CFR section 393.100 – 393.136, using trusted equipment from US Cargo Control, and inspecting equipment regularly, you can be confident in having a load that is safely secured and avoid potential fines and delays during inspections.

All load securement items made and supplied by US Cargo Control meet or exceed all WSTDA and/or NACM standards and specifications. If you need high-quality load securement equipment, we offer a wide range of options to meet all your transportation needs. Browse our selection today and ensure your cargo stays secure on the road.

Get in Touch With Your Dedicated Account Manager

TIM SANDERS
Email: tsanders@uscargocontrol.com
Call: 1-800-969-6543

Tim Sanders brings over 13 years of expertise in the trucking and transportation industry with USCC. Before joining, Tim gained hands-on experience and practical knowledge driving flatbeds and boom trucks - he still maintains his CDL to this day! Currently, Tim is the Co-chair of the WSTDA Load Securement Technical Committee.