Introduction
Properly securing loads is one of the most critical aspects of commercial transportation. Inadequately secured cargo can lead to serious accidents, damage to goods, legal penalties, and even fatalities. This guide covers essential techniques for securing loads in different truck types, helping you ensure safety and compliance with transportation regulations.
General Principles of Load Securing
Regardless of the truck type, certain principles apply to all load securing:
Understanding Forces
Loads are subject to various forces during transport:
- Forward force: During braking (up to 0.8g, meaning 80% of the load's weight)
- Backward force: During acceleration (up to 0.5g)
- Sideways force: During cornering (up to 0.5g)
- Upward force: Over bumps and uneven surfaces
Your securing methods must counteract these forces to keep the load stable.
Load Restraint Methods
There are four main methods of load restraint:
- Lashing: Using straps, chains, or ropes to tie down the load
- Blocking: Using fixed structures to prevent load movement
- Friction: Increasing the friction between the load and the vehicle bed
- Containing: Using sides, headboards, or specialized containers
Most effective load securing uses a combination of these methods.
Securing Loads in Box Trucks and Luton Vans
Box trucks and Luton vans offer enclosed spaces that help contain loads, but proper securing is still essential.
Best Practices:
- Use the headboard: Position heavy items against the headboard to prevent forward movement during braking
- Fill gaps: Use dunnage (void fillers, airbags, or foam) to fill spaces between items
- Layer properly: Place heavier items at the bottom and distribute weight evenly
- Use load bars: Horizontal bars can be positioned to prevent items from shifting
- Secure with straps: Use ratchet straps attached to anchor points to secure items
- Compartmentalize: For mixed loads, create sections to prevent items from damaging each other
Securing Loads on Dropside Trucks
Dropside trucks have lower sides that can be folded down for loading, offering less containment than box trucks.
Best Practices:
- Use corner protectors: Prevent straps from damaging load edges and from being cut by sharp edges
- Cross lashing: Apply straps in a crossed pattern for better stability
- Ensure sides are secure: Always check that dropside panels are properly latched before transit
- Consider covers: Use tarpaulins for weather protection and additional security
- Use rated anchor points: Ensure all tie-down points are appropriate for the load weight
Securing Loads on Flatbed and Curtainside Trucks
Flatbed and curtainside trucks require particularly careful load securing as they offer minimal containment.
Best Practices:
- Use appropriate restraints: Chains for heavy machinery, webbing straps for lighter loads
- Apply direct lashing: Attach restraints directly to the load where possible
- Use anti-slip matting: Increase friction between the load and the bed
- Consider weather protection: Use waterproof covers for sensitive loads
- Check curtain ratings: Standard curtains are for weather protection only and not load restraint
- Use load-rated curtains: Some curtainside trucks have EN 12642-XL rated curtains that contribute to load restraint
Securing Specific Load Types
Palletized Goods
- Ensure pallets are in good condition
- Wrap palletized goods with stretch film
- Use straps over the top of pallets
- Consider double-stacking only if lower pallets can bear the weight
Long Items (Pipes, Timber, etc.)
- Use a headboard rated for the load
- Apply at least two restraints
- Consider using specialized cradles
- Mark items that extend beyond the vehicle with flags or lights as required by law
Machinery and Heavy Equipment
- Use chains rather than straps for very heavy items
- Chock wheels where applicable
- Secure at designated lifting or tie-down points
- Consider using specialized equipment like heavy-duty ramps and winches for loading/unloading
Loose Materials (Sand, Gravel, etc.)
- Use trucks with solid sides (like tippers)
- Don't exceed the sides' height
- Cover with appropriate netting or sheeting
- Ensure tailgates are secure
Legal Requirements and Inspections
In the UK, the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 require that all loads must be secured to prevent danger or nuisance. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) can stop vehicles to check load security, and penalties for inadequate securing can include:
- Fixed penalties
- Vehicle prohibition (preventing further use until the issue is resolved)
- Court summons for serious cases
- Points on your license
Regular inspections of your load during transit are also essential, particularly after the first few miles and after any sudden maneuvers or rough road sections.
Training and Resources
Proper load securing requires knowledge and experience. Consider:
- Professional training courses on load securing
- The Department for Transport's "Safety of Loads on Vehicles" code of practice
- Industry-specific guidelines for particular load types
Conclusion
Properly securing loads is not just a legal requirement but a critical safety measure that protects you, other road users, and your cargo. By understanding the principles of load restraint and applying the appropriate techniques for your specific truck type and load, you can ensure safe and compliant transportation.
At RentalTruck.co.uk, we provide load securing equipment with our truck rentals and can offer guidance on best practices for your specific needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and ensure you have everything you need for safe transportation.