Load Securement Checklist

The minimum per FMCSA: 1 tiedown for articles 5 feet or less, 2 tiedowns for articles over 5 feet and up to 10 feet, and 1 additional tiedown for every additional 10 feet of length. However, the aggregate working load limit of all tiedowns must also equal or exceed 50% of the cargo weight. In practice, experienced flatbed drivers often use more than the minimum.

4-inch flat strap: 5,400 lbs WLL. 3/8-inch Grade 70 chain: 6,600 lbs WLL. 1/2-inch Grade 70 chain: 11,300 lbs WLL. 2-inch flat strap: 3,333 lbs WLL. Always check the tag or marking on each device for its specific WLL — using a device beyond its WLL is a violation and a safety hazard.

FMCSA load securement violations carry fines of $1,000-$16,000 per violation. More importantly, you can be placed out of service until the securement is corrected, costing you hours of driving time and lost revenue. CSA points from securement violations affect your safety record and your carrier's insurance rates.