How to secure paper rolls to satisfy DOT?

Here is exactly what the regulations say for paper rolls weighing more than 5,000 pounds. Friction mats and blocking or bracing is all that is typically required.

Federal Register :: Request Access

 

I normally put a load bar then use a etrack strap to tighten it up so load bar can’t shift .. and I’ve had them break the seal after they found out I was hauling paper rolls .. a quick glance and he was happy . What is or isn’t required probably depends on officer inspecting you ..

 

We have a contract with a company that does wrapper material printing for MARS.

The trailers are set up with E-Track both horizontal and vertical tracks.

The drivers use shoring bars (NOT load bars) to secure the rolls from forward movement and straps crosswise for side-to-side movement.

They use friction pads under the rolls.

We had one accident with this setup and the rolls never moved.

 

I read friction mats OR blocking and bracing. Only if they’re tall and skinny rolls according to specs are both required. I’ve hauled them standing up mostly. Always mats only. 5 rolls at 9k each. Once hauled them laying down long ways. They were blocked and if I remember correctly stacked. 3 on floor and 2 on top maybe? Maybe 20 rolls total. That was dangerous. Not much keeping them from rolling through the wall. I refuse to haul them. Last time, the 9k lb rolls along with the 20k lb fork Truck put a hole through the floor of my last Trailer. Look underneath while they’re loading or unloading and watch the floor and cross beams roll out. Listen to the wood floor cracking. Too much weight. Even and especially if, I had a brand new Trailer I wouldn’t haul them again. Tears them up.

 

If the roll is twice as tall as it is wide you need to put a strap on it.

That strap will do nothing, as the front set of rolls won't be strapped and there is nothing in front of the rear set, but as soon as dot sees the strap they'll stop looking.

And as others have said, the likelihood of dot breaking your seal to check securement is low, but it is possible. More likely if you are placarded, but still unlikely.

 

Yeah, I have been hauling them with mats alone for over a year now... never had a load shift, so I really am not worried about actually securing anything for real... I just want to make sure that if I get an inspection, I don't have to worry about a ticket or whatever....

 

I used to haul large paper rolls a lot , but most were already loaded and doors sealed when I picked up the trailer .

think they used blocking nailed to the floor .
Dunno about the mats .

 

That’s all well and good, but I ain’t taking any chances! I’m putting extra straps and load locks in my tanker!

 

No tarps on that tank?

I mean some loads need to stay dry.

 

They can absolutely cut the seal if they want. They have to reseal and sign for it though.

But I fully agree with your last sentence, it is nothing to fear. Just another week at the office, LOL.