Hauling Heavy Equipment: Best Practices for Securing Loads on Heavy Duty Trailers
Heavy-duty trailers form the backbone of most businesses. Trailers are used in different industries mainly for logistic purposes. From agriculture to construction, the importance of heavy-duty trailers in Geelong and Melbourne cannot be ignored! The primary purpose of trailers is to transport heavy goods from one place to another. While most people focus on choosing high-quality heavy-duty trailers, they often ignore the importance of securing loads. Improper load securing can have severe consequences such as accidents, property damage, and injuries.
Before we get to the effective practices of load securing, it is necessary to know about the types of heavy-duty trailers for sale in Geelong. Every trailer requires a different load-securing technique and that’s why knowledge about the types of trailers is crucial!
Types of Heavy-Duty Trailers in Geelong
- Flatbed Trailers
A flatbed trailer is usually used to carry large and irregularly shaped objects. This trailer helps in transporting cargo that does not require an enclosed or covered space. Flatbed trailers have a flat and levelled platform with no sidewalls or a roof. Load securing is crucial when using flatbed trailers because these trailers can be quite bumpy when in motion and cause the load to move sideways or forward. Some common devices for load securing on a flatbed trailer are steel straps, chains, and cables of high-quality.
- Lowboy Trailers
A lowboy trailer is a heavy-duty trailer used to transport heavy, tall, and wide cargo. These trailers are mainly used for construction equipment, large industrial components, and bulky machinery. The low deck height of this trailer is extremely close to the ground. This helps with the smooth transportation of tall and heavy cargo on roads and bridges that have height restrictions. Tie-down systems are used to secure the load on lowboy trailers.
- Drop Deck Trailers
A drop deck trailer consists of two levels and has no roof or sidewalls. This trailer is specially designed for taller cargo that exceeds the maximum height restrictions. Drop deck trailers are widely used for transporting construction components and heavy machinery. These trailers provide efficient load distribution which is why they are highly preferred. Several winch systems and tie-down systems are used to secure the load on drop deck trailers.
Now that we know about a few heavy-duty trailers in Geelong, let’s know about the best practices one can use for securing the load.
Effective Practices to Secure Load on Heavy-Duty Trailers in Melbourne and Geelong
- Conduct a thorough inspection of the trailer
Before loading any cargo, it is necessary to inspect the trailer in detail. Make sure the load-securing systems in the trailer are in perfect condition. One must also check the structural problems in the trailer. Check if the surface has any damages that can cause problems in the load distribution. Prepare a checklist and follow the same before you load any cargo on the trailer.
- Know the cargo
It is necessary to understand the details of the cargo because it will help you choose the right load-securing method. Make note of the cargo’s weight, height, and other crucial characteristics. Different loads require different securing techniques which is why knowing your cargo is important.
- Check whether the load is balanced
See to it that the load on the trailer is evenly placed and has proper balance. Properly distribute the weight across the trailer to avoid overloading one section of the trailer. Improper weight distribution can lead to stability issues during transportation.
- Choose the right securing equipment
There are many different types of load-securing equipment available. Some commonly used equipment are chains, binders, edge protectors, and ratchet straps. Choose the load-securing equipment as per the cargo’s height and weight. The equipment you choose must have the capacity to bear the load of the cargo efficiently. Make sure the equipment is in good condition.
Similarly, you must also use the right tie-down systems to secure the load effectively.
- Inspect the securing
Double-check the load-securing after the cargo loading. Ensure that all the tie-ups are intact and tight and nothing is falling off, out of balance, or on the edge. In case of any issues, add more straps and chains to secure the position of the cargo.
Proper load-securing practices can save you from accidents caused due to cargo shifting. Adhering to the load-securing guidelines can ensure the protection of cargo and the safety of all road users.
Want to know about different heavy-duty trailers for sale in Geelong? Need a custom-made trailer in Melbourne? We, at Geelong Trailers, are here to assist you. We manufacture and repair a wide range of heavy-duty trailers in Melbourne and Geelong. Get in touch with us today for more information on heavy-duty trailers.
