Strapping/Chaining Flatbeds advice???

Actually, the rule about no straps outside the rub rail was later changed.
You can legally do it that way when needed. I did it allot, when I could not get them to line up properly and had several DOT inspections with them on the outside without any issues.
The big thing to look at on securement is to always try to have a chain or strap within 2' of each end of the item. For round steel I would always use chains for my belly wraps, and check them after a few miles. Also get them tight on the main secure side, and then I would always put another binder on the other side to force it tighter.
No matter how well you secure round stock it is always possible for it to move forward. We had a driver with 30 years flatbedding get killed by his load a few years ago when he had to bail off the road to keep from hitting a school bus. All his chains were tight, and he had more than legally needed on it. Still on the sudden stop the load came forward thru the cab.
My loads I would always visualize turning that trailer upside down and shaking it. IF the load would possibly move doing that I would add more straps or chains.

 

heres one I got knabbed for in OK. I was carrying a dozer. I chained it down the way I always do. 2 rachet binders on the front and rear on each side, total of 8. I never checked them but two of the ratchet binders were rated for 5500 lbs instead of the 7200 rated ones I usually use. Thus the dozer weighed more than the tie downs would allow. Just a warning on that one from DOT