Securing cargo in a truck bed is extremely important for safety and preventing loss or damage. There are several key factors to consider when securing a truck bed for transporting cargo:
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Use Tiedowns and Straps
Tiedowns, straps, ropes, and chains are essential tools for securing cargo in a truck bed. They provide downward force to counteract upward and forward forces during transport. Pickup trucks should have tiedown hooks along the sides and front of the truck bed. Use these to securely attach straps over and around cargo.
Ratchet straps are a popular option as they can be tightened down for a snug fit. Bungee cords are helpful for lighter loads. Chains can also be used but may damage some cargo. Using a combination of tiedowns provides the most security.
Cargo Control Equipment
Beyond regular tiedowns, there are some specialized cargo control tools:
- nets and tarps to go over the top of loads
- load bars to wedge against cargo
- friction mats to help prevent sliding
- corner protectors to avoid damage
- edge protectors for straps
- movable dividers/gates to section off areas
These items can further secure cargo and protect the truck bed itself from damage. They are especially useful with large loads taking up the entire truck bed space.
Load Locks
Load locks insert into truck bed holes and can securely hold individual items in place or act as anchor points for tiedowns. They are easy to install and removable when not needed. Load locks rated for the weight of the cargo should be used.
Blocking and Bracing
Blocking refers to using lumber or structural materials wedged against cargo to prevent movement. Bracing is similar but uses metal bars or poles instead of wood. Use these techniques along with tiedowns to restrict cargo movement in all directions.
Cargo Placement and Balance
How and where cargo is loaded in the truck bed is also very important for security:
- Heavier items should be centered and low in the bed
- Load evenly from side to side
- Do not overload
- Stack items tightly with no gaps
- Fill voids with dunnage (padding material)
Taking weight distribution into account improves driving stability and reduces strain on tiedowns.
Inspection
Thoroughly inspecting the condition and security of cargo tiedowns is vital before transporting a load. Tiedowns should have minimal slack and be tight enough to limit cargo movement to 1 inch. Also check tiedown condition for damage or wear periodically.
Driver Training
Even with proper cargo securing equipment and techniques, the driver plays a key role. Safe handling, braking, speed and inspection practices by the driver helps keep cargo in place during transit.
Cargo securement training and certification helps drivers learn proper transportation standards and methods. Many companies require drivers to complete secured load training periodically.
Selecting Securement Equipment
Choosing the right tiedowns, straps, blocks and other cargo restraints for your needs is important. Here are some key factors in choosing truck bed cargo securing equipment:
- Load material – Fabrics, metals or lumber require different types of restraints.
- Load weight – Heavier cargo needs higher weight rated equipment.
- Space – Measure truck bed dimensions and tie down points.
- Sharp edges – Padding prevents strap damage.
- Weather – Tarps protect cargo from rain and snow.
- Trip duration – Longer trips may need more robust restraints.
- Regulations – Check legal requirements for your locations.
Considering these factors will help you choose effective tiedowns for the job.
Bed Size Considerations
Pickup truck beds range in size from about 5 feet to 9 feet long. Full-size and heavy-duty trucks have beds around 8 feet long. Mid-size trucks typically have 5-6 foot beds. Measure the exact dimensions of your truck bed length, width between wheel wells, and height of side walls.
Having the specific bed size helps determine how much and what sized cargo you can transport. It is also needed to get tie downs and restraint accessories of the proper length.
Weight Capacity
Truck manufacturers provide payload capacities which is the maximum combined weight of cargo and accessories the truck bed can safely transport. This is usually around 1,500-3,000 lbs for mid-size trucks and up to 5,000 lbs for heavy-duty pickups.
Using a truck bed’s payload capacity prevents overloading. Any tiedowns, mats, bars, etc also factor into the payload weight. Weighing cargo is recommended to stay within safe limits.
Tiedown Types
There are a variety of tiedown types and options for securing cargo:
| Tiedown | Description |
|---|---|
| Ratchet straps | Nylon straps tightened with a ratcheting mechanism. Available in different widths and weight limits. |
| Cam buckle straps | Polyester straps with an adjustable cam buckle. Must be manually tightened. |
| Bungee cords | Elastic cord with hooks on the ends. Good for light loads. |
| Ropes | Good versatility for tying down irregular loads. Natural fiber or synthetic options. |
| Chains | Very high strength and durability. Can damage cargo. |
| Nets | Contain loose or odd-shaped items. Available in mesh or solid. |
| Winches | Mechanical winching devices wind straps tightly around loads. |
Each tiedown type has advantages and disadvantages based on the load requirements.
Federal Regulations
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has strict regulations for cargo securement on public roads. All commercial truck drivers transporting cargo must comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) cargo securement rules.
Key aspects include:
- Cargo must be firmly immobilized or secured on or within a vehicle by structures of adequate strength, dunnage or dunnage bags, shoring bars, tiedowns or a combination of these.
- Tiedowns must be adjustable, attached and tightened securely.
- Sufficient number and type of tiedowns used based on the length, height and weight of articles transported.
- Working load limits for tiedowns and attachment points must be sufficient for the load.
- Regular en route inspections of cargo.
There are extensive additional requirements covered in the FMCSA regulations on proper securement for various cargo types.
Inspection and Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance help ensure tiedowns remain in good condition:
- Check for cuts, tears or damage in straps or ropes.
- Inspect chains for breaks or bent links.
- Discard and replace worn tiedowns.
- Keep straps clean and free of debris.
- Lubricate ratchet and cam buckle mechanisms.
- Wash fabric straps to prevent mildew and dry completely.
- Store tiedowns neatly in a clean, dry area.
Following the manufacturer’s recommendations on inspection frequency, cleaning, storage and working load limits for tiedowns extends their lifetime and performance.
Safety Precautions
Cargo securement involves some safety risks. Follow these precautions:
- Wear gloves when handling ropes, chains and ratchet straps.
- Make sure the truck is in park with the parking brake on when securing cargo.
- Watch for sharp edges when placing tarps or corner protectors.
- Use extreme caution when tightening and releasing ratchet straps.
- Avoid loose clothing that could get caught while working in the truck bed.
- Check surroundings before stepping out of the truck bed.
- Never step on top of cargo or loads.
- Use the proper number of people for large heavy items.
Remaining alert and following common sense safety practices reduces the chance of injuries from cargo restraints or shifting loads.
Conclusion
Securing cargo loaded in pickup truck beds takes careful planning and the right equipment. Proper use of tiedowns, straps, blocks, nets and other restraints prevents cargo from shifting during transport. Attention to load distribution, federal regulations, inspection and maintenance ensures cargo arrives safely. Following basic safety precautions also reduces risk of injury when working with cargo restraints. Implementing effective cargo securement methods makes truck bed transportation of goods more efficient and safe.