Load Leveler

Is it ill advised to use a load leveler as a header board on the front of a trailer? I'll explain better. Instead of using a header board on the front of a trailer could you use a load leveler instead. Put the load leveler right up against the load and secure it down, instead of using dunnage to make one. Since it would be right up against the load it would help stop the load from shifting forwards instead of having the rack at the front try and stop it after it gained the speed before it hits it. I am looking at alternatives to the standard panel because the all rattle so bad and they rust bad. We already over secure our loads. Are there any states that I would get a fine for doing this in?

 

This is what I found regarding that,

The header board is considered part of the cargo securement system. The regulations at § 393.110 say:

(b) When an article is not blocked or positioned to prevent movement in the forward direction by a header board, bulkhead, other cargo that is positioned to prevent movement, or other appropriate blocking devices, it must be secured by at least:

(1) One tiedown for articles 5 feet (1.52 meters) or less in length, and 1,100 pounds (500 kg) or less in weight;

(2) Two tiedowns if the article is: (i) 5 feet (1.52 meters) or less in length and more than 1,100 pounds (500 kg) in weight; or (ii) Longer than 5 feet (1.52 meters) but less than or equal to 10 feet (3.04 meters) in length, irrespective of the weight.

All tiedowns must be adequate for their intended purpose. These are the regulations in effect at this time.


I'm just worried that if I put one on there some DOT officer in another state will write me up for some obscure rule.

 

We don't figure that in, it would just be extra for piece of mind. The load is concrete blocks. 2 foot tall by 2 foot wide by 6 feet long loaded sideways. Two winch straps over the front and the rear blocks and one over each of the remaining blocks. Weight is 3,400 lbs a piece.