The Truckers’ Report flatbed Hall of Shame.

this horse has been beat to death so many times... there is no regulation stating that straps are to be inside the rub rail.

 

The quote I posted was from the FMSCA site:
Cargo Securement Rules | FMCSA

> All tiedowns and other components of a cargo securement system used to secure loads on a trailer equipped with rub rails must be located inboard of the rub rails whenever practicable.

 

Note that it says “ when ever practicable “ that is the key wording. Add to that any DOT certified inspector/officer has discretion to interpret the regulations as they see fit at anytime. So no matter what, you’re at the decision of that person at any time. Does not matter what the situation is.
End of story.

 

prac·ti·ca·ble
/ˈpraktəkəb(ə)l/
adjective

able to be done or put into practice successfully.
"the measures will be put into effect as soon as is reasonably practicable"

 

I didn't mean to argue about that. My only point was that being an instructor means to teach the least questionable way independent of any clauses. Can a driver be penalized (theoretically, in practice or under circumstances etc) for having the hooks inside the rails? No. On to the rails? Yes.

 

Otherwise known as ###### if you do and ###### if you don't.

 

Not an argument. Each trailer manufacturer has rails, hooks or other points of securing straps and chains. Some are listed on placards on the trailer, others are listed in the operation/user manual that is some other place than with the trailer. The preferred method for routing is inside the rub rail. When the trailer has one, and it is practical. Otherwise it is outside the rub rail. Can a DOT certified inspector/officer make life difficult over this. Sure. Are they right or wrong. Well it all depends on the situation. In most situations, nothing will come of it.

 

At the 9 minute mark.

 

Here’s the electronic handbook.

Federal Register :: Request Access

 

One of those JD spray rigs with 7,000 hours cost $385,000.