Whether you are a long hauler, flatbedder, or dry van trucker, you are definitely familiar with tie downs, especially transport chains and binders. Simply put, chains and binders are used to secure a variety of load sizes on trucks, which is something you’ll do every day.
Briefly, here are the steps:
- Be familiar with local regulations for safety requirements and load limits (they may vary from state-to-state).
- Select the appropriate chain and binder grades that match the weight and type of your load.
- Lay the chains over the load, ensuring they are tight and evenly distributed.
- Use a ratchet binder or lever binder to tighten the chains securely, making sure they don’t shift during transport.
- Test your load by trying to manually move it around.
- When driving, keep an eye on it, especially when you start and then if you’ve made a sharp turn or stopped suddenly.
Read on if you want to know the specific uses of chains and binders for trucks.
Uses of Chains and Binders
Chains and binders are essential for securing loads on trucks. Here are some of their main uses:
- Load Securement: Heavy machinery, cars, or freight are secured by chains to keep them from moving while in transit.
- Stability: Properly secured loads improve vehicle stability, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Compliance with Regulations: Different states require specific load securement methods to comply with safety regulations.
- Versatility: Chains can be used for various types of cargo, including construction materials, machinery, and oversized items.
- Durability: Chains are strong and can withstand harsh conditions, making them ideal for long-distance transportation.
- Ease of Use: Binders allow for quick adjustment and tightening of chains, enabling efficient loading and unloading.
- Damage Prevention: Properly securing a load helps prevent damage to the cargo and the truck.
Here are some additional points to remember to ensure that you’re using chains and binders most effectively:
- Choose the Right Equipment: Remember to check the chain grade and binder type. Use chains that are rated for the weight of your load. Common grades include G70 for heavy-duty applications. Ratchet binders are easier to tighten and adjust than lever binders, especially for heavy loads.
- Inspect Equipment: Check chains and binders for wear, kinks, or damage before use. Replace any potentially defective components. Be thorough with your inspection and take your time.
- Proper Placement: Attach chains to secure anchor points on both the truck and the cargo. For larger loads, consider crossing chains over the load for added stability.
- Tightening: Use the binder to tighten the chains adequately, ensuring there’s no slack. A loose load can shift and become hazardous. Do not over-tighten!
- Use Proper Techniques: Wrap chains around the cargo in a way that maximizes contact and minimizes movement.
- Secure Load from Multiple Angles: Use multiple chains and binders if necessary, securing the load from various angles to prevent shifting.
- Regularly Check Loads During Transport: Stop periodically to check your loads and the tension of the chains and binders, especially on long trips. Stopping at the beginning may feel like it will slow you down, but a load that shifts too much or gets damaged will slow you down even more and cost you real money.
- Follow Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding load securement, weight limits, and chain standards, especially those from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Training: Ensure that anyone involved in loading and securing cargo is trained in proper techniques and safety practices.
- Load Distribution: Balance the load properly on the truck to prevent shifting and maintain vehicle stability.
Following these practices will help ensure that your loads are secure and compliant with safety regulations. Furthermore, in the United States, there are specific regulations to follow to ensure safety. Here are some key guidelines:
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations: According to the FMCSA, all loads must be secured to prevent shifting or falling. This includes using appropriate tie-downs like chains and binders. Additionally, you should be aware of the Load Securement Standards. The regulations specify the number of tie-downs required based on the weight of the load. For example, a load weighing up to 5,000 pounds typically requires at least two tie-downs. Consult the FMCSA website or your state’s Department of Transportation for accurate and updated information.
- Chain Specifications: Chains must meet specific strength requirements, often classified by grades (e.g., G70 for heavy-duty applications). The working load limit (WLL) of the chains should be clearly marked, and it must be suitable for the weight of the cargo being transported. The maximum breaking strength (MBS) is another common metric regarding the absolute maximum force capacity of chains.
- Use of Binders: Binders must be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure they can safely handle the load. Regular inspections of binders are required to ensure they are free from damage and functioning properly.
- Visibility and Marking: If a load extends beyond the vehicle, it must be marked with appropriate oversized flags or lights, depending on state regulations.
- State Regulations: Individual states may have additional regulations concerning load securement, including specific requirements for chains and binders. Always check local laws in the states you will be traveling through.
- Training and Certification: Some states and companies require drivers and load securement personnel to undergo training or certification on safe practices.
- Documentation: Keep records of load securement methods and inspections to demonstrate compliance with regulations if required.
It is essential to follow the above guidelines and regulations for the safety of the driver and other motorists. Following proper regulations could also mean avoiding fines and sanctions that could seriously affect efficiency.
If you have questions about specific types of loads or situations, we’re here to help. Verduyn Tarps has everything you need for a safe and reliable journey. Visit us in Southgate, MI (Metro-Detroit) and Gary, IN (Chicagoland), or check out our shop page to learn more. For more details, contact us at 313-270-4890 or 219-888-9383.
