Pallet racking loads frequently shift during transit, causing costly delays, tow bills, and legal issues. The problem stems from poor securement, lack of training, and failure to check load tension mid-route. Proper securement techniques and accountability across the supply chain are essential to preventing these issues.
This happens 5 to 10 times a week.
At just one warehouse...
During ProMat 2025, I spent time at the booths of some of the biggest names in warehouse storage. I had the chance to talk with the teams at Frazier Industrial and AR Racking, and check out the latest innovations in racking systems and storage solutions.
But even while I was there, surrounded by some of the best technology in the industry, I kept thinking about something I see far too often.
In flatbed forums, I constantly come across drivers asking what to do when their pallet racking loads shift during transit. And it’s not just a one-off issue. A towing company driver recently told me they get 5 to 10 calls a week from truckers dealing with the same problem.
When racking loads aren’t secured properly, the consequences hit hard:
Missed deliveries
Per diem installer crews stand around waiting — burning time, and burning your money.
Crazy tow bills
One driver thought he owed $2,000. The final charge? $19,000.
Freight held hostage
Small carriers can't pay these costs up front, so trailers sit for days waiting on insurance.
Shippers dragged into lawsuits
Even if they’re not technically at fault, that doesn’t always stop someone from filing a claim.
Truth is, it’s a little bit of everyone.
🔹 Shippers
For not vetting their logistics providers. Do they have real experience moving open-deck and flatbed freight?
🔹 Brokers
For not training their reps on what proper securement looks like — especially for unstable or high-stacked loads. If your team can't verify that a load is safe to roll, you're guessing.
🔹 Carriers
Dispatchers should follow a securement checklist — not just trust that "the driver knows what they’re doing." Request pictures. Double-check them. Make it a standard process.
🔹 Again, carriers
Drivers need to be trained on how to secure loads like pallet racking, steel, and other tall, shift-prone freight. No shortcuts.
This is not just a driver issue. It’s a supply chain issue.
If you’re moving racking, steel, or anything tall and heavy, this is how to avoid trouble:
Ask for pictures before the truck leaves the customer
X chains at the ends to prevent the load from tipping sideways
Vertical straps straight down from the top to lock the racks in
Belly straps to secure the bottom rack
Blocking at the base to stop movement side to side
Drivers should stop after 50–100 miles and re-tighten securement. Loads settle during transit. What’s tight at pickup may be loose an hour later.
How do you secure pallet racking on a flatbed trailer?
Use X chains at the ends, vertical straps from the top, belly straps on the base, and blocking to prevent side movement. Always re-check tightness after 50–100 miles.
What causes pallet racking loads to shift in transit?
Improper securement, lack of training, and failure to check tension mid-route are the most common causes.
This isn’t just about one warehouse. This is happening every week, all over the country.
The fix starts with everyone doing their part — and not assuming the next link in the chain will catch what you missed.
Related Tags:
#ProMat2025 #PalletRacking #HighValueCargo #FlatbedFreight #CargoSecurement #PharmaLogistics #ElectronicsLogistics #LogisticsFails #SupplyChainProblems #WhoIsResponsible
Companies Mentioned:
Frazier Industrial Company | PROMAN s.r.o. | APEX Companies | Uline | AR Racking | Esnova
Sebastian H.
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