Load Securement

Before you go anywhere, secure your load.
Remember that the driver is responsible for proper load securement and for any damage that may occur if the load was not secured or was secured incorrectly.

Even if the load is secured by the shipper, the driver must still verify that the load is properly secured and that it meets all regulatory requirements.

The shipper (unless it is a specialized load) may secure the freight if you provide the necessary equipment, such as straps and/or load bars.
If the load requires special securement, this is usually handled by the shipper — however, the driver must ensure that it is done correctly and in compliance with regulations.

In some cases, you may need to carry additional securement equipment, such as cargo nets for loose freight, wooden boards or plywood, anti-slip mats, corner protectors, and a pry bar for removing nails from the trailer floor.

According to 49 CFR 392.9(a)(1), a driver may not operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV), and a motor carrier may not require or permit a driver to operate, unless the cargo is properly distributed and adequately secured in accordance with §§ 393.100 through 393.136
This means that the driver — and no one else — is responsible for proper load securement and weight distribution.
Of course, this does not mean that you must personally secure the load, but you must understand the cargo securement rules, and before starting your trip you are required to verify that the load is properly secured, even if someone else performed the securement.

The load must also be properly distributed to ensure that axle weight limits and the maximum allowable gross vehicle weight (GROSS WEIGHT) are not exceeded.

If your load weighs more than 35,000 pounds, always weigh your combination and slide the tandems and/or fifth wheel if necessary.
Information about weight limits can be found here: WEIGHTS

If your combination weighs more than the legal 80,000 lbs, or if you have already slid the tandems to the maximum allowable kingpin-to-tandem distance (depending on the states you will be traveling through), return to the shipper and request that the load be repositioned or partially removed.

NEVER DRIVE OVERWEIGHT.

On the FMCSA website, you can find an article that summarizes the cargo securement rules.

Detailed cargo securement regulations can be found here: