The Manifest
Understanding Securement Types: Choosing the Right Method for Safer Hauls
June 3, 2026Whether you are new to flatbed or have decades of experience under your belt, securement is just as important as loading. The right type of securement helps protect the cargo, your equipment, and everyone out on the road. Not to mention, helping drivers like you comply with cargo securement standards.
Why Securement Matters
Cargo must be firmly immobilized using a securement system with enough working load limit (WLL) to hold the load in place. In general, the total WLL of the securement system must be at least one-half the weight of the cargo being secured. That means choosing the right method is not just about convenience; it is about matching the securement setup to the freight type and its movement risk.
Direct vs Indirect Securement
There are two basic approaches to cargo securement: direct and indirect. Direct securement runs from the trailer directly to the load, while indirect securement goes from one side of the trailer, over or through the cargo, and back to the trailer.
Indirect securement often allows better use of the tie-down’s full WLL because the force is spread across the load and anchored on the opposite sides of the trailer. Direct securement, on the other hand, places the securement force more directly on the tie-down points and may reduce how efficiently the load is stabilized.
Common Securement Types
Different cargo calls for different securement methods. The attached materials highlight several specialized coil and transformer securement setups that are commonly used in flatbed hauling.
- Eye-to-side coil securement: This setup is used for steel coils and relies on coil racks, beveled lumber, edge protection, and chains arranged according to coil weight.
- Eye-to-front coil securement: This method uses X-pattern chains through the eye of the coil and requires specific chain counts based on the coil weight.
- Skidded coil securement: This approach uses chains over the coil, including an X over the top and a trip chain at the front to help prevent shifting.
- Aluminum coil securement: This method uses straps over the top of the coil and a trip chain at the front to keep the load stable.
- Transformer securement: For transformers, the securement may use chains through hooks or straps with foam protection to avoid damage to sensitive parts.
What Makes Securement Different by Load
The biggest difference between securement types is the shape, weight, and movement tendency of the freight. Coils are heavy and round, so they require blocking, racks, and carefully placed chains to stop rolling. Transformers are more square and equipment-sensitive, so the focus is often on protecting the unit from damage while keeping it firmly anchored.
Some shipments also have special handling rules. For example, the transformer materias note not to damage radiators, not to break pallets, and to use foam protection or proper contact points when required. Coil securement also emphasizes edge protection, rubber belting, and keeping chains from touching or damaging the load.
Safe Securement Habits
Good securement is not only about the main tie-downs. It also includes checking pallet condition, banding, lumber placement, edge protection, and loose equipment before departure. Drivers should also make sure chains, binders, straps, and other gear are secured so they do not shift during transit.
A practical example: a steel coil may need coil racks, beveled lumber, rubber belting, and a set number of chains based on weight, while a transformer may need chains through specific hooks or straps with foam protection to prevent cosmetic or structural damage. In both cases, the goal is the same: to keep the freight stable and compliant.
Conclusion
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all securement method. The correct choice depends on the cargo type, weight, shape, and handling requirements, which is why drivers and dispatch teams should follow shipment-specific instructions closely. When securement is done right, it supports safer roads, better freight protection, and smoother operations.
Inside Sunline’s Safety Practices: Our Approach to Safe Loading and Unloading
June 3, 2026At Sunline, safety is not just a policy; it is a daily commitment that protects our drivers and staff while at the terminal. Whether loading or unloading, every step in the yard matters. By following these safety practices, we ensure that operations run smoothly while minimizing risk.
SAFETY STARTS BEFORE YOU ENTER
Every safe operation begins with communication and awareness. Drivers are required to check in with office personnel before proceeding to the loading or unloading area. This ensures proper coordination and keeps everyone informed of activity.
PROPER GEAR MATTERS
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a critical part of staying safe on-site. We ask drivers to always wear required PPE, including safety vests, hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toe boots.
STAYING SAFE DURING LOADING AND UNLOADING
Patience and awareness play a role in safety during active hours. We ask that drivers remain inside their tractor or commercial motor vehicle (CMV) unless otherwise instructed by yard personnel. For example, staying inside the cab protects drivers from moving equipment during forklift operations.
It is especially important to maintain a safe distance from all moving equipment. The terminal during operational hours is constantly in motion, with many moving parts. Staying clear helps to keep everyone safe and allows for a smooth operation.
ACCOUNTABILITY AND FINAL CHECKS
Our job to keep everyone safe does not end when the loading process is complete. Before leaving the facility, we ask drivers to conduct a final walk-around inspection with our DOT-certified inspectors. This final step ensures the proper securement of the commodity, documentation is complete, and the driver is ready for the road.
SUNLINE’S SAFETY CULTURE
Here, safety is a shared responsibility. By following these safety practices and respecting the guidance of our personnel, we create a safer environment for all. Every safe decision contributes to a stronger, more reliable operation and helps to ensure that every driver coming in and out of the yard has a positive experience.
What’s Pulling Your Freight? A Guide to Trailer Types
May 27, 2026When it comes to shipping freight, there is no one-size-fits-all. The type of trailer used can significantly affect how efficiently, safely, and effectively a shipment can be transported.
At Sunline, we know that choosing the right trailer is just as important as choosing the right carrier. Here’s a look at some of the most common trailer types and the kinds of freight they’re built to handle.
FLATBED TRAILERS
Flatbed trailers are one of the most versatile trailer types you might see out on the road. With an open deck and no sides or roof, they offer maximum flexibility for loading and unloading freight from virtually any angle.
Because flatbeds can accommodate cargo that is oversized, irregularly shaped, or too large for dry van, they are a popular choice across many industries, such as steel and metal, lumber and building materials, and large palletized freight.
STEP DECK TRAILERS
Sometimes, freight is simply too tall for a standard flatbed. That’s where step decks trailers really shine.
Also known as drop decks, step deck trailers feature two deck levels, allowing taller cargo to ride lower to the ground while remaining within legal height limits. This makes them ideal for transporting equipment and machinery that would otherwise require special permits on a standard flatbed.
For freight that needs a little more vertical clearance, step decks provide an efficient solution.
DOUBLE DROP TRAILERS
When freight exceeds the height limits of both flatbed and step deck trailers, double drop trailers offer another option.
These trailers feature a lower center section, often referred to as a “well,” which allows extremely tall cargo to be transported safely and legally. Their unique design makes them ideal for moving oversized industrial and construction equipment.
For specialized freight that requires extra height accommodations, double drops are a preferred choice.
REMOVABLE GOOSENECK (RGN) TRAILERS
Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailers are specifically designed for transporting heavy, oversized equipment.
What sets an RGN apart is its detachable front sections, which create a ramp that allows machinery to be driven directly onto the trailer. This eliminates the use of extra equipment for loading and unloading, such as cranes or other specialized equipment, and significantly streamlines the loading process.
Providing both convenience and efficiency, RGN trailers are commonly used for specialized construction equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or tractors.
CONESTOGA TRAILERS
Some freight requires protection from weather and road debris, but still benefits from the loading flexibility of a flatbed. Featuring a retractable tarp system that slides open and closed, Conestoga trailers allow freight to be loaded from the top, sides, or rear while keeping cargo protected throughout transport.
Industries often use Conestoga trailers for high-value freight, weather-sensitive materials, or finished steel products. They offer the ease of loading and protection.
HOT SHOT TRAILERS
When time is of the essence, a hot shot trailer is an excellent choice.
Typically pulled by heavy-duty pickup trucks, hot shot trailers are designed for smaller, expedited shipments that need to move quickly. They provide greater flexibility and faster response times than standard semi-truck services.
Common hot shot freight includes construction materials, small machinery, or specialized equipment.
Why Choosing the Right Trailer Matters
Every shipment requires attention to detail. Selecting the proper trailer helps to ensure freight arrives safely, securely, and moves as efficiently as possible.
Whether you’re shipping steel on a flatbed, heavy equipment on an RGN, or weather-sensitive products on a Conestoga, matching freight to the right trailer is critical to a successful delivery.
At Sunline, we help customers navigate these decisions every day. Our team works closely with our network of drivers to identify the best equipment for each load, ensuring reliable service from pick up to delivery.
Connect with Us for Your Logistic Needs
No matter the size, weight, or complexity of your freight, we have the experience and network to get it where it is going. Contact our team today to learn more about our logistics solutions and how we can support your next shipment!