Cargo securement tiedown rules: how many straps a load needs

Cargo securement tiedown rules answer a question every flatbed driver asks: how many straps or chains does this load need? The federal rule gives a minimum count based on how long and how heavy each piece is, and whether it is blocked in front. Here is the count in plain words, with examples, so you can check your load before you roll.

What a tiedown is

A tiedown is a strap, chain, cable or similar device that holds cargo down or keeps it from moving. It is attached to the truck or trailer and goes over or through the cargo.

The count rule is 49 CFR 393.110. It sets the minimum number of tiedowns for each article, or group of articles, when tiedowns are part of how you secure the load.

The count when the article is not blocked in front

"Blocked in front" means something solid stops the article from sliding forward, like a headerboard, a bulkhead or another piece of cargo that is itself secured. When the article is not blocked in front, the minimum is:

• 1 tiedown if the article is 5 feet long or less and 1,100 pounds or less.
• 2 tiedowns if the article is 5 feet long or less but weighs more than 1,100 pounds.
• 2 tiedowns if the article is longer than 5 feet, up to 10 feet.
• More than 10 feet long: 2 tiedowns for the first 10 feet, plus 1 more for every extra 10 feet, or part of 10 feet.

Examples you can use

• A crate 4 feet long that weighs 900 pounds: at least 1 tiedown.
• A crate 4 feet long that weighs 2,000 pounds: at least 2.
• A bundle 8 feet long: at least 2.
• A bundle 15 feet long: 2 for the first 10 feet, plus 1 for the extra 5 feet. At least 3.
• A beam 25 feet long: 2 for the first 10 feet, plus 1 for the next 10 feet, plus 1 for the last 5 feet. At least 4.

Cargo securement tiedown rules when the load is blocked

If the article is blocked or braced so it cannot move forward, the count is different. Then you need at least 1 tiedown for every 10 feet of length, or part of 10 feet.

So a 15-foot article that is blocked in front needs at least 2 tiedowns. A 25-foot article that is blocked needs at least 3.

The exception for special cargo

The count rule does not apply to cargo like machinery or fabricated structural items that, because of their design, size, shape or weight, must be fastened by special methods. Those loads follow other securement rules. If you haul heavy equipment, read the rules for your kind of cargo before you load.

The count is only a minimum

Two things to remember:

• Strength matters too. Separate rules (49 CFR 393.106 and 393.108) cover how strong your tiedowns must be together, based on their working load limit. The right number of weak straps can still fail an inspection.
• More can be better. The rule sets the least you can use. Many loads need more to stay in place.

Also check your straps and chains before every trip. Worn, cut or knotted tiedowns can be a problem at a roadside inspection. Our guide to DOT inspection levels explains what officers look at.

How to check your load, step by step

1. Measure each article and know its weight from the bill of lading.
2. Decide if it is blocked in front.
3. Count the minimum using the lists above.
4. Check the strength of the tiedowns you will use.
5. Inspect after you start. Check the load again after the first few miles and when you stop.

Mistakes to avoid

• Counting a group of short pieces as one article when they are not tied together.
• Forgetting the "part of 10 feet." A 21-foot article needs a tiedown for that last foot.
• Using damaged straps.
• Assuming a headerboard means "blocked" when the cargo is not against it.

When to call us

Starting a flatbed operation or opening your own authority? Call TCZ Permits at 956-526-6727. We help you build your whole file so you can focus on the load. For your full list of filings, see our filing guide.

Common questions

How many tiedowns for a 20-foot load that is not blocked? 2 for the first 10 feet and 1 for the next 10 feet. At least 3.

Does the rule apply to every kind of cargo? The count rule does not apply to items like machinery or fabricated structural items that must be fastened by special methods. Those have their own rules.

Is the minimum count enough to pass an inspection? Not by itself. The tiedowns must also be strong enough together and in good condition.