is this the right way or wrong way to haul flatbed trailers

Online Load Securement Manual From FMCSA

Driver_Handbook.pdf (application/pdf Object)

 

Use what you have. I've seen it both ways. I paid a guy to haul two stacked flats from MN for me a few years ago and all he did was strap them. It was fun backing my truck off the dock onto the bottom one, hooking up to the top one and pulling it off. That's how I started flatbedding, I bought two of them. Glad I liked it!!!

 

I've hauled stacked trailers from Louisiana To Houston. I used straps and wasn't bothered when I passed through the scales.

 

I use chains to prevent the trailers from going forwards or backwards and then straps for the down pressure. I never felt comfortable using straps for everything. But I also have seen some companies who dont carry any chains and use straps for everything.

 

Have always X chained the front and rear, then straps over the mid section.

Never had any problems with that.

 

I hauled 3 new ones from the factory. BL had "no chains" right on it.

 

If you are hauling brand new stacks of flatbeds most new mfg's wont allow you to use chains. I know when we hauled any new aluminum trailers it was not allowed by the factory.
I have hauled stacks all over the country and never used chains. Just common sense and enough straps that obviously are DOT rated and safe. Myself I would strap the middle deck with its own straps and then 6 more straps over the entire stack. They are very top heavy and with having the middle deck strapped on its own helps with stability. But alot of drivers do it without strapping middle deck. Everyone has there own preference.
Just use alot of common sense in and around curves and corners.

 

They wont hardly move if you just strap them down good.

The only problem I have ever had with them is in wind, if you are running pretty good, they will have a tendency to move you over a little , like they are attempting to fly.

Keep your speed down to about 70 and don't get feisty with them.They draw so much wind they will cause you to have to fuel going downhill most of the time.