Is a binder considered a chain?

@TripleSix

 

That would depend on the point on your trailer where you're securing the binder. If it’s WLL is sufficient then you're fine. If you're hooking directly to a typical rub rail, that may not be the case. Some are not made to be used for securement, but some are. It's on you to know.

In this job, you either know or you don't. Sounds dumb, but there's plenty of drivers that don't get that. You don't guess that something is ok because you seen someone else do it, or it's the way it was done years ago, or you heard it at the lunch counter.

You need to know your own equipment.

 

You can use a binder to secure load directly to trailer, without using a chain. The WLL of the lowest component is what matters. Trailer securement point, binder or chain.
Good luck.

 

I've used binders only to secure a load with no chain. Dozer tracks, for one.

 

Also you could get some 2-4` chains with a hook on one end. Use that on the spools for instance and if the binder hooks to the machine properly, then just hook other end of binder to the small chain. Some people customize their own binders with various lengths of chain on end of binders for the purpose of some small equipment

 

perfectly legal, it’s done all the time.

legally anchor points are not required to be rated. Any rubrail can be used for securement.

 

Thanks for proving my point, as stated, you either know or you don't know, and blindly taking advise from another driver does not count as knowing, regardless of their experience.

Let's see what a manufacturer has to say, since they're the ones who actually do the designing and building...

"One part of the trailer that’s more frequently damaged is the rub rail, or tarp bar as it’s sometimes called. It’s not considered an anchor point in most cases, yet some drivers insist on using it as such. Securing cargo to the rub rail is not a recommended practice, Sabol adds. “In fact, at East we do not even rate the rub rail, because it’s not a recognized tie-down point. Drivers are not supposed to connect hooks or straps directly to the rub rail.”

Don’t Overlook Trailer Anchor Points

 

It didn't take me long with my new East before I scraped the "Do Not Use" stickers off my rub rails. Sometimes it's the only useful option.

 

That’s good info to consider. I will continue hooking to the rubrail when necessary. It’s perfectly legal and never had an issue. Obviously you should be inspecting equipment for cracks and damage.