Load Securement

This test evaluates your understanding of proper techniques for securing cargo, ensuring safety and compliance while transporting freight. A well-secured load prevents accidents, protects cargo integrity, and keeps roadways safe for all drivers.

Topics Covered:

FMCSA and DOT cargo securement regulations
Choosing the right equipment (straps, chains, binders)
Best practices for securing various types of freight
Load balancing and weight distribution for stability
Inspecting and maintaining securement devices

Passing this test proves you have the knowledge to secure cargo safely and efficiently, reducing risk and ensuring compliance

1 / 30

What documentation is required for drivers regarding cargo securement?

A detailed map of the cargo placement

A cargo securement certificate for each type of cargo

Proof of weight for all secured items

No documentation is required, but best practices should be followed

2 / 30

In terms of load securement, what must be done with loose items in the cargo area?

Loose items can remain free as long as heavy items are secured

Loose items must be secured or contained to prevent shifting

Loose items are allowed if they are below a certain weight

Securing loose items is optional and at the driver’s discretion

3 / 30

What is the effect of driving speed on cargo securement?

Higher speeds decrease the risk of cargo shifting

Speed has no effect on cargo security

Higher speeds increase the risk of cargo shifting

Only sudden stops affect cargo security, not speed

4 / 30

How should drivers check if cargo is properly secured throughout a trip?

By using mirrors only

By stopping and checking at regular intervals

By relying on vehicle sensors

By asking for feedback from other drivers on the road

5 / 30

Which type of cargo does NOT typically require special consideration for securement?

Logs

Metal coils

Fresh produce

Machinery parts

6 / 30

What must drivers do before a trip regarding cargo securement?

Inspect the cargo and its securing devices

Ensure the cargo does not exceed 45,000 lbs

Apply additional tie-downs regardless of cargo size

Contact the manufacturer for securement recommendations

7 / 30

Under the North American Cargo Securement Standard, what is the aggregate working load limit of tie-downs required to secure a load?

At least 1/2 times the weight of the cargo

At least equal to the weight of the cargo

At least 1/3 times the weight of the cargo

At least twice the weight of the cargo

8 / 30

What is the primary purpose of blocking and bracing as a load securement technique?

To prevent shifting and tipping of cargo

To increase the weight of the load

To improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle

To make unloading the cargo easier

9 / 30

Which factor does NOT directly affect how cargo should be secured on a vehicle?

The weight of the cargo

The length of the journey

The shape of the cargo

Weather conditions

10 / 30

What is the minimum number of tie-downs required for a flatbed load?

At least 1 tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo

At least 2 tie-downs regardless of load length

At least 1 tie-down for every 20 feet of cargo

The number of tie-downs is determined by the weight of the cargo, not its length

11 / 30

What must drivers check within the first 50 miles after beginning a trip?

Cargo securement devices and cargo

Fuel levels

Weather conditions

Traffic reports

12 / 30

Direct tie-downs are used to?

Prevent side-to-side movement

Increase the weight on the cargo

Secure cargo by attaching it directly to the vehicle

All of the above

13 / 30

Which part of the cargo securement standards does NOT apply to the transportation of logs?

General cargo securement requirements

Specific commodity requirements

The requirement for edge protection

All parts apply

14 / 30

What is the minimum WLL for securing heavy vehicles, equipment, and machinery?

1,000 pounds

1,500 pounds

2,000 pounds

4,000 pounds

15 / 30

The securement system must be capable of resisting how much minimum forward force relative to the weight of the cargo?

80%

50%

20%

0.5%

16 / 30

Edge protection is required when tie-downs could be?

Cut or torn because of movement of the cargo

Exposed to rain

Used on sharp edges of the cargo

All of the above

17 / 30

What factor determines the number of tie-downs needed for cargo longer than 10 feet?

The weight of the cargo

The length and weight of the cargo

The type of cargo

The type of tie-down

18 / 30

Which of the following is NOT a proper method for securing a load?

Using chains

Using ropes

Using locked-in wood blocks

Placing items loosely on the flatbed

19 / 30

For cargo securement purposes, what is the Aggregate Working Load Limit (WLL) required for cargo weighing 10,000 pounds?

5,000 pounds

10,000 pounds

2,500 pounds

1,000 pounds

20 / 30

What is the minimum number of tie-downs required for a flatbed load shorter than 10 feet and lighter than 1,100 pounds?

1

2

3

4

21 / 30

What factor does NOT affect the type and amount of securement required?

The weight of the cargo

The value of the cargo

The shape of the cargo

Weather conditions during transport

22 / 30

For securing logs on a log carrier, what is the minimum requirement for the number of tie-downs?

Two tie-downs for loads less than 5 feet long

One tie-down for every 5 feet of load length

Two tie-downs regardless of load length

One tie-down at the front and rear only

23 / 30

When securing a heavy vehicle, equipment, or machinery on a flatbed, what is the minimum requirement for the number of tie-downs?

One tie-down for every 10,000 pounds of cargo weight

Two tie-downs, regardless of the cargo’s weight

One tie-down for every 15,000 pounds of cargo weight

Four tie-downs if the item is more than 10 feet long

24 / 30

What must be done with loose parts of the securement system?

They should be left as is if not in use

They must be securely fastened to the vehicle

They should be stored inside the cab

They can be left on the trailer bed if space allows

25 / 30

Which type of cargo does NOT necessarily require direct tie-downs?

Intermodal containers

Bagged goods

Rolls of paper

Automobiles on a car hauler

26 / 30

Under the North American Cargo Securement Standard, how is the adequacy of cargo securement determined?

By the weight and dimension of the cargo only

By the number of tie-downs only

By the type of cargo and its propensity to shift

By performance criteria during transport

27 / 30

What is the aggregate working load limit (WLL) required for cargoes not blocked by a headerboard, bulkhead, or another cargo?

At least one-half times the weight of the cargo

Equal to the weight of the cargo

At least one-third times the weight of the cargo

Twice the weight of the cargo

28 / 30

Which of the following is NOT a primary goal of load securement according to FMCSA regulations?

Preventing cargo from leaking or spilling

Ensuring cargo does not shift or fall during transport

Allowing for easy access to cargo during transit

Protecting the cargo from damage

29 / 30

How often should cargo securement devices be inspected during transit?

Every 3 hours or 150 miles

Every 2 hours or 100 miles

At the beginning and end of a trip only

Every 6 hours or 300 miles

30 / 30

What is the minimum number of tie-downs required for a flatbed load?

At least 1 tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo

At least 2 tie-downs regardless of load length

At least 1 tie-down for every 20 feet of cargo

At least 3 tie-downs for loads over 15 feet

Your score is

The average score is 21%