By: ,
Does anyone have a solution for keeping the load locks with the trailer? Some stops are sealed so I can’t verify if the load locks are inside the trailer or not.
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Response from Mike and Vicki:
Thank you for asking a question on our site.
Actually, you’ve asked two questions:
1. Is there a way to keep load locks with a trailer (inside or outside)?
We’ve never heard of load lock racks being stored either inside or outside a trailer. We know that some tractors have load lock racks (lockable or not) on the backs of the cabs or sleeper berth areas.
2. How do I verify if a sealed load has one or more load locks inside the trailer?
You can’t. You can ask the shipper if load locks (or load straps) were put in place behind a load, but don’t count on that information being accurate.
We were told in orientation with our first trucking company to “never break a seal”. You can read all about the adventure we had when trying to scale out an improperly loaded beer load (so as to try to avoid an overweight fine).
Unless the shipper with whom you are dealing insists upon having the load secured on the back, when you pick up a sealed load, more than likely, that is the way that the shipper intends for it to be shipped: as-is.
If the shipper insists that the load be secured on the back and the trailer is already sealed, go back inside to have someone come out with you to authorize the breaking of the seal, placement of the load lock(s) and resealing of the trailer.
In the case of a trailer with a bolt for a seal, never, ever cut it. Let the receiver take that load as-is.
Remember, always cover your backside, so to speak.
If other drivers have more to add on this, we welcome their comments below.
In the meantime, we wish you safe travels and lots of money saving opportunities on the road.
Best regards,
Mike and Vicki Simons
