Flatbed question

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by singleton2787, Aug 15, 2025 at 10:26 AM.

  1. singleton2787

    singleton2787 Bobtail Member

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    Jul 11, 2025
    Texas
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    Hauling these 50-foot steel roof trusses and having some issues. Load keeps shifting even though I've stopped to re-tighten straps like 16 times already over 200 miles.

    Here's what I've got:

    • 6 bundles of trusses, each wrapped with metal bands front/back, 2 layers
    • Sitting on wood decking
    • Straps over the top at 20 locations
    • BUT there's gaps between each bundle where they can slide against each other
    • Front and back lower trusses are lifting away from the wood at front and back
    I'm reading 49 CFR 393.110(d)(2) says structural steel needs to be "blocked to prevent sliding in all directions" - but there's NOTHING between these bundles to stop them from moving.

    ❓ QUESTIONS FOR YOU EXPERIENCED FLATBEDDERS:

    • Is this load legal as-is?
    • Should there be wood blocks BETWEEN each bundle?
    • Am I missing something obvious here?
    • What would YOU do in this situation?
     
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  3. Long FLD

    Long FLD Road Train Member

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    Pics? If there are gaps between the bundles it will keep moving. Are you allowed outside the truck while loading to make sure they’re loading correctly?
     
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  4. Kenworth6969

    Kenworth6969 Road Train Member

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    Jul 3, 2020
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    Biggest thing that pretty much goes for all loads is how you're loaded.

    You want items loaded pushed together as tight as possible.

    If there gaps when loaded there will be shifting and straps/chains will loosen.

    If items are banded like crap or loose make the shipper reband them also.
     
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  5. xsetra

    xsetra Road Train Member

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    Aug 21, 2011
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    Pictures would help.
    Hope you got it fixed.
     
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