If you're moving things by trailer or truck, especially valuables,
it's very important that they be secured safely. Many drivers don't use
enough straps or just don't use them the right way. When it comes to
ratchet tie down straps and truck tie downs, you
can't cut any corners, because damage can be irreparable. So here are
some tips that will help you truck your cargo safely, wherever it needs
to go.
1. The first rule of cargo securement is to know the
characteristics of your cargo. This really refers to the weight and the
value of the object at hand. After you know these criteria, it is just
as important to know the Lashing capacity of your truck tie downs.
2.
No matter how heavy your cargo is, it doesn't mean that it will stay in
place; it only means that it takes more energy to get it moving, and
once it does, watch out. Make sure to use enough truck tie downs for
your load securement. Inspect them at the beginning of your journey and
intermittently during to make sure that they are properly tied and that
there is no room for movement or slippage. Ideally this should be at 3km
then every 50km's.
3. Watch how your Tie Downs are in place. If
there are any sharp corners that could cut or weaken your strap, it
might be best to re-strap your cargo in another way. To avoid damage of
your shipment, look for securement points, especially on equipment.
Improper cargo securement can damage your load and put your own or the
Publics life in danger if there is, for example, a chain running against
a hydraulic hose causing the loss of oil.
4. Truck Corner
Protectors are also important to proper load securement. The best angle
is 45 degrees because it clamps the load to the truck and prevents it
from sliding around whereas a flat chain only does the latter.
5.
Even distribution of your load is also important because too much
weight on the front can affect steering while too much on the back can
affect braking.
Remember, it's not just the cargo that you're
responsible for, it's your life and the lives of others. If your load
securement is not properly managed it could cause weight shifts that
result in life or death accidents or multi-million dollar lawsuits.
It is always the Driver's Responsibility to ensure the Load is Secured properly. Ignorance is no excuse.