Question hauling empty containers

Lol. She delivers pizzas on the side for extra spending money don't ya know

 

Having hauled both loaded and unloaded shipping containers of 20 to 53 feet. Some times multiples and mixed combinations of sizes.

These loads have been on 48 and 53 flats and steps.
some times the steps change things a bit but not much.

On a 40 foot can, loaded or unloaded, I have always secured them the same way and have not had problems. Usually need a single 4X4 at one end and occasionally a 2X4 for the other. Securement starts with two chains. one at each end of the can, pass the chains through the lock holes and down to the trailer. (same as doing a coil or other steel.) One binder in the center, I like to use a ratchet, but levers work too. ( multis change this, as the center they will be touching usually)
next is straps over the top, one every 8 feet from the end, that is 4 straps over the top and tighten. I like to put a half twist in the strap to keep it from singing or beating the can.

Have never been botherd by DOT, on the road or scale.

 

@Hurst
4 pieces off dunnage for arch.
2 crossed chaines front 2 crossed at the back.
100% legal and no wear on your straps.
That is how i did it.

 

if you go to the FMCSA website and look up regs for securing loads you will find that regs say containers on flats, steps etc must have a chain from to top of all 4 corners crossed and secured to the trailer,, the load securement regs should all be read by anyone hauling on flats, steps or RGN trailers

 

Top is an option, not a requirement.

 

I use 1 chain across the rear thru the lock holes and the same for the front. 1 ratchet binder for each.
Then 3 straps over the top.
Loaded containers cannot hang off the end, empties are set a few feet off the back so they can be slid off (Landoll trailer)

 

That's for a loaded container.

 

I plan to spec my drop deck with container locks, when I do get one. That simplifies things, yet still maintains flexibility on what I "can" haul.