Knowledge is power.

Anyone who is a driver understands that it is, “Always the drivers fault.” The discussion begins, “Who is responsible?” A load has shifted. The shipper blames the driver, the broker blames the driver and now wants to withhold payment, and the driver says, “It’s not my fault!” Sound familiar? The truth is it’s every bodies fault. The shipper for improper loading and improper containers, the driver for accepting the load without questions, and the broker, because they just don’t know.

The FMCSA, has a Drivers Handbook. Chapter two specifically addresses this questions.

Chapter 2 Three ways to transport cargo. All types of cargo must meet one of three conditions:

1. Condition 1: Cargo is fully contained by structures of adequate strength. (Cardboard contIners for unprocessed food probably does not meet this condition.

2. Cargo is immobilized by structures adequate strength or a combination of structure, blocking, and bracing to prevent shifting or tipping.

3. To prevent shifting or tipping, cargo is immobilized or secured on or within a vehicle by Tiedowns along with:

Blocking, bracing, friction mats, other cargo, void fillers, combination of these.

We ask the driver to take a photo of the load before the seal is placed we then send the photo to the broker for approval. Driver, always check your load prior to leaving the shipper when possible or note you were not allowed to do so. Nothing is perfect, however it is always better to be pro-active, other. Than reactive.

Be careful and have a blessed day!