This is the second post in our series that covers CVSA’s Roadcheck program, which is set for Tuesday to Thursday of next week. This year, in addition to focusing on documentation, the enforcement blitz will also focus on securement of cargo.

Drivers need to make sure they are carrying a safe load. Anything and everything carried on a truck must be properly secured to prevent loss of control or falling cargo from injuring drivers, passengers, or pedestrians. While safe cargo securement principles and regulations apply to every single bill of lading item carried on the truck, they also apply to anything else, including dunnage, tools, and any equipment drivers need to complete the job. These may include items such as shovels, blocks, webbing, chains, spare tires, brooms, forklifts, pallet jacks, winches, or ratchets; all must be secured!

Cargo Securement Checklist

No matter what type of truck/trailer a driver is responsible for, a cargo securement check is a necessary action to perform before every trip. Below, a checklist of the most common cargo securement areas: 

• Check tail board/tailgate security. All mechanisms must be secure and operating as designed.

• Verify end gates are secured in stake pockets.

• Check both sides of the trailer to ensure cargo is protected from shifting or falling.

• Verify that rear doors are securely closed.

• Where load is visible, check for proper blocking and bracing. Loads that shift can cause not only crashes but damage to the cargo and to the equipment. They also indicate violations that will affect a carrier company’s safety rating.

• For container loads, examine inside of trailer to assure that cargo is properly secured. Check cargo securement devices for proper number, size and condition. Remember, it is advised that drivers have 3 to 6 load locks that are in good working order. Check our post on load locks for a full review of how to use load locks to your best advantage.

• Inspect tie downs and tie down anchor points for wear and damage such as deformation and cracking. CVSA’s North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria includes the tie down defect tables for chains, wire ropes, cordage, synthetic webbing, steel strapping, fittings or attachments and anchor points. If worn out, tie downs should be replaced.

• Use best practices or due diligence. Remember that rules are established for a reason. Ensure your load is contained, immobilized or secured so that it cannot: (a) leak, spill, blow off, fall from, fall through or otherwise be dislodged from the vehicle, or (b) shift upon or within the vehicle to such an extent that the vehicle’s stability or maneuverability is affected.

Document checks and cargo securement checks are two special focuses for inspector this year; they will be in addition to the primary objective of Roadcheck, which is for inspectors to perform the full 37 step Level 1 inspections throughout the week. Last year, the 72 hour blitz saw an 18.7% vehicle out of service rate and a 4.8% driver out of service rate, so make sure you are well prepared for next week!