Heavy Machinery Cargo Securement

Heavy machinery requires special securement under § 393.130. Machinery is high-value, heavy, and often has multiple anchor points.

Securement requirements

• Each tiedown rated for heavy load (5,000+ lbs WLL typical)
• Multiple tiedowns (typically 4-6)
• Tiedowns at machine attachment points (rated)
• Crossing tiedowns where possible (better stability)

Machinery preparation

• Hydraulic systems isolated (pressure released, valves closed)
• Wheels chocked
• Boom/arm secured in transit position
• Operating fluids checked for transit (no leaks)
• Loose parts removed or strapped

Trailer considerations

• Heavy haul trailers (purpose-built for machinery)
• Reinforced deck
• Anchor points rated for heavy use
• Platform compliance (length, weight rating)

Driver inspection

• Pre-trip: verify tiedowns, chocks, hydraulic isolation
• Mid-trip: stop + verify no shift
• Post-trip: confirm delivery, document any damage

Weight + permit considerations

• Loads over 80,000 lbs gross may require oversize permits
• Per-state permit rules vary
• Pilot car requirements for very large machinery
• Roadway weight restrictions

Common violations

• Tiedowns rated too low for machinery weight
• Tiedowns not crossing (linear, less stable)
• Machinery moves during transit
• Missing chocks (wheels can roll)
• Inadequate platform (under-rated trailer)

Cargo damage prevention

• Padding/dunnage at contact points (prevent paint chipping)
• Tiedown points avoid finished surfaces
• Boom support to prevent stress

Compass cargo securement

• Heavy machinery checklist
• WLL calculator + tiedown configuration
• Permit compliance reminder (if oversize)

CFR citations

• 49 CFR § 393.130

How Compass surfaces this

Searchable in Compass Ask. Runs against carrier fleet data when invoked from the relevant tracker. Read-only; no actions without explicit user approval.

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