securing 8" columns question

Pick up the JJ Keller load securment book. You can find it at the truck stop. Sounds like a pretty simple load but the securment devices you use depend upon the weight you are securing. I would guess straps but I can't say that for sure because I haven't seen the columns nor do I know the weight. Invest in the book; after all, it will be a lot cheaper than an unsecured load ticket. Trust me, I know from experience.

 

Do you know how much do they weigh roughly? sound like a pretty simple load.... All straps and chains have load limit on them, so divide the weight and add one more just to be sure. Also you can "belly" wrap in front and back to prevent from sliding out on you...
Hope this helps a little

 

Also be cautious when using chains. While they may seem a good choice for what you are hauling, they can and do cause damage to the product. If you decide to use them, make sure the customer doesn't consider the surface smoothness to be critical. Just another thing to consider.

 

There are rules for securement based upon weight, length, type of freight. You didn't mention what the columns were made of, but you will most likely use straps. The shipper can likely help you with how to best secure their freight. Picking up a book on securement would help you be compliant and answer most of your questions. They are available at most truck stops for about $5 or so. If you use straps, make sure you run then inside the railing.

 

Take some 4x4s for dunnage to rest the cloumns on and talk to the guys loading you about how to secure them. That's about all you really need to know, other then what the others have said. Reading the regs on load securement is also a good idea, of course.

 

One thing about open deck work is it's always something new. I always like to walk around the different types of loads in the truck stops. You never know where you might learn a new trick.