Using Strong Poly Strapping To Firmly Lock In A Flatbed Trailer’s Load

By Author: Thelma Bowman
Total Articles: 5
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Flatbed trucks are a common sight near harbors or on the highway. They may carry any kind of goods, but stowing them on the bed itself is a delicate art. If you are tasked to bring something heavy on a flatbed over a long distance, there are ways to lock down the load; one by using durable poly strapping systems.

The flatbed trailer should have a set of mounted winches onboard to ease the tightening of the poly straps. Depending on the type of cargo, you need to have at least 12 rolls of 30-foot straps with flat hooks on both ends, plus a winch bar. The loading area should also be clear of any hindrances and must have proper loading equipment like a forklift or crane.

Start placing the cargo on the front end of the trailer, making sure that the loads are properly set for the winches. This will enable the crew to adequately prepare two straps for locking in with the winches. One end of each strap must be secure on one winch before being tossed to the other end. An assistant should be on the other end to catch ...
... the strap and lock it in with the opposing winch.

Repeat the process with the other cargo until the entire flatbed is fully loaded. You should also coordinate with the loader to make the cargo as tightly spaced. Although there may be strapping on the lateral ends of the trailer, consider putting
extra plastic strapping at the front and back.

There’s a possibility that the winches may have broken loose on the journey. Plan truck stops with your team, where you’ll have a chance to inspect the load. Retighten the cargo if the tension check finds it necessary; you cannot go back out on the road without making sure all is stowed.

Locking down the load real tight atop a flatbed trailer will help make it stable while in transit and also protect your investment when it arrives at the destination. All it takes is due diligence in making it happen. For more information, read on at safetyrisk.net.