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Cargo Securement Checklist
General Requirements
Check that all cargo is properly distributed and adequately secured as per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
Verify that all securing devices like straps, chains, and tensioners are in serviceable condition without damage or defects.
Ensure that the securement system is appropriate for the size, shape, strength, and characteristics of the cargo.
Driver's Responsibilities
Inspect the cargo and the devices securing the cargo within the first 50 miles after beginning a trip.
Re-examine the cargo and its securing devices during every change-of-duty status and after every break during driving.
Adjust cargo and load securement devices as necessary to ensure that cargo cannot shift on or within, or fall from the commercial motor vehicle.
Commodity-Specific Requirements
Verify that commodities requiring special attention such as hazardous materials, oversized loads, or perishable goods are secured according to commodity-specific regulations.
Check that any tarps, if used to protect cargo, are properly secured so as not to become a hazard.
Ensure that any blocking, bracing, or dunnage used to prevent cargo shifting is secured in place to prevent it from becoming loose.
Vehicle Structure and Equipment
Inspect the overall condition of the vehicle structure, including the cargo body, to ensure that it is not damaged or weakened in a way that could affect cargo securement.
Confirm that any anchor points for tie-downs are not damaged, missing, or otherwise compromised.
Ensure that the vehicle's cargo securement equipment is appropriate for the vehicle type and size of the cargo being transported.
Documentation and Record Keeping
Maintain a record of all inspections performed on cargo securement devices and systems.
Keep documentation of any repairs or replacements of cargo securement devices on hand.
Ensure that all drivers have access to and understand the cargo securement requirements for the loads they are transporting.
