Restraining Long Length Items on Trucks

15 May Blog

Restraining long-length items requires careful planning and consideration to ensure that your load is compliant with the Load Restraint Guide rules.

Flexible Long Items:

Long flexible items like small-diameter pipes, timber, rods, and rolled steel sections require proper support and spacing during transportation. It is important that items such as these are carried on sufficiently long vehicles to meet allowable length and overhang regulations. Support them at frequent intervals to prevent trailer capacity reduction and maintain stability during transit. Click Here to view the load support points in the load restraint guide.

Long Rigid Items:

For large-diameter metal pipes, concrete beams, and heavy rolled steel sections, support at only two points when transported on extendable trailers to allow flexibility. Position supports approximately 20% of the length from each end and above the axle group and kingpin for optimal stability.

Roof and Ladder Racks:

When transporting long items on roof or ladder racks, restrain them with at least two lashings. Avoid overhang exceeding 20% of the item’s length and ensure vehicle dimension limits are not exceeded to prevent safety hazards.

Load Support Points:

Referencing the load support points table, determine the required distance between supports and maximum overhang based on the length of the items being transported. Adhering to these measurements ensures proper load distribution and prevents overstrain on the vehicle.

(Source: Load Restraint Guide)

Short Pipes:

Restrain short pipes across the vehicle using tie-down or containment methods. Dividing and crowning loads ensures adequate clamping to all lengths, preventing shifting during transit. Block crowned stacks at the base to control movement and ensure stability.

Stacked Pipes:

When stacking large-diameter pipes, individually tie down the top layer to positively clamp all lower layer pipes and prevent sideways movement. Block or lash front and rear-most pipes to prevent stack movement. Ensure uniformity in diameter and length within the stack to maintain stability and prevent roll-out.

By following proper techniques and guidelines for both flexible and rigid materials, you can ensure the integrity of your cargo and the safety of all involved.