A comprehensive guide to FMCSA cargo securement rules (49 CFR 393), chain grades, binder types, Working Load Limits, and step-by-step procedures for securing steel, lumber, pipe, coils, and other flatbed freight.
return ( FMCSA Cargo Securement Rules Overview Cargo securement on flatbed trailers is governed by 49 CFR Part 393, Subparts I and J — the FMCSA's federal cargo securement standards.
These aren't guidelines or suggestions — they're enforceable regulations.
Violations result in fines, out-of-service orders, and CSA points that follow your carrier.
The fundamental rule is simple: cargo must be immobilized or secured to prevent it from shifting, falling, or otherwise becoming a hazard during transportation, including when the vehicle is involved in braking, turning, or an accident.
Understanding Working Load Limit (WLL) The Working Load Limit (WLL) is the maximum load that a securement device (chain, strap, or cable) is designed to support during normal use.
It's approximately one-third of the device's breaking strength, providing a safety margin.
Under FMCSA rules, the aggregate WLL of all tie-downs on a load must equal or exceed 50% of the cargo weight .
This is a minimum — experienced drivers often exceed this requirement for safety.
For example, a 40,000-pound load requires a total WLL of at least 20,000 pounds from all tie-downs combined.
80 Grade 70 (Transport Chain) Grade 70 chain is the standard transport chain used in flatbed trucking.
It's made from heat-treated carbon steel and is identified by a gold/yellow chromate finish .
WLL for common Grade 70 sizes: 5/16" Grade 70: 4,700 lbs WLL 3/8" Grade 70: 6,600 lbs WLL 1/2" Grade 70: 11,300 lbs WLL Grade 70 is the most commonly used chain on flatbeds.
It's what most drivers carry and what most securement situations call for.
Grade 80 (Alloy Chain) Grade 80 chain is made from alloy steel, giving it a higher strength-to-weight ratio.
It's identified by markings stamped on each link.
WLL for common Grade 80 sizes: 5/16" Grade 80: 5,700 lbs WLL 3/8" Grade 80: 7,100 lbs WLL 1/2" Grade 80: 12,000 lbs WLL Grade 80 is lighter than Grade 70 for the same WLL, but it costs more.
It's commonly used for overhead lifting but also works for cargo securement.
NEVER use Grade 30 (proof chain) or Grade 43 (high-test chain) for cargo securement.
These grades are not heat-treated for transport use and have significantly lower WLL.
Grade 30 is for barriers and non-load-bearing applications.
Grade 43 is for non-transport tie-down only.
Using the wrong chain grade is a federal violation and a serious safety hazard.
Lever Ratchet Binders (Ratchet Load Binders) Ratchet binders use a threaded screw mechanism to tighten chains.
You turn the ratchet handle to draw the chain tight, similar to a turnbuckle.
They provide controlled, incremental tightening.
Pros: Easier and safer to tighten — no sudden release of stored energy.
Better for precise tension adjustment.
The ratchet mechanism can strip or fail if over-tightened or not maintained.
More expensive than lever binders.
Lever Binders (Snap Binders) Lever binders use a l.
View All Guides | Browse Trailers
MotorCarrierLeasing.com — 22529 Hwy 189, Elba, AL 36323 — 1-334-316-3198 — USDOT# 4256528
Browse Available Trailers | Free Trucking Guides | List Your Trailer