Advice for Hauling Steel Plate

I'm going to make a comment here. Not saying your wrong BUT, I have never had a DOT cop inquire about the WLL on my anchor points. However they have checked chain size. I used to use 5/16" also but then I realized I was throwing extra chains to satisfy the rule but the DOT cop didn't care.

 

They may not do it in a roadside check. But possibly if you were involved in an accident where there cargo came loose from the trailer.

 

Always always always make x chains on the front and at least run a chain across the rear on steel plates. Use straps or chains whatever you prefer for the rest but remember DOT requires two securements within the first 5ft. Front and rear and then a securement every 8 feet from end to end plus figuring the required number of straps and chains for the weight load. i would x out the front and back to meet that requirement then strap every 8 feet in the middle with edge protection personally. Belly straps DONT count towards securements for overall weight load. Does that make sense? I hope so! God bless! Stay safe!

 

It is my understanding that belly straps (over the top, back under, and back over wrapping the load) count for weight and length. Gut straps on stacked loads count for weight but not length.

 

i have done loads like this. here is how i did it. assume load is 53ft long
x chain front
x chain rear
cahin 2 pockets form front
chain 2 pockets from rear
cut load into 1.4 throw chains every 14 lenght
throw straps with protectors,
assuming load is 46km i have strap/chain good for 90k

 

I think "belly" and "gut" are two terms for the same thing. When you wrap the strap all the way around your load, it is called a choke strap. If the load shift forwards or backwards, the strap will get tighter due to friction where the straps circle the load and "chokes" the load.

I suppose we have all learned different terminology for the same process, I will stick to the one that is most descriptive of the action taking place. As long as you and those you are talking to know what you mean, that is all that counts.

 

There is nothing wrong with using straps on steel plates. They work as good as chains do. Just make sure you use edge protectors and you'll be fine. Always secure the plates where the dunnage is located. Believe it or not, securing it in the middle, between where dunnage is, can cause the plates to break in half. Seen it done before. I run oversize plates and use straps sometimes, and chains sometimes. All depends on my mood

 

It doesn't matter who checks it or not, the regs state its the weakest point, whether its the anchor point, the chain or the binder.

what ya do in the real world is another thing, but the rules are another. I am just pointed out that a 3/4 inch chain doesn't secure anymore if its hooked to a 5400 pound rated pocket.

 

For clarification, your x chains in the front will count towards your 2 securement points in the first 5 feet?