Decking beams and load bars are important parts of safe cargo transportation. Both decking beams and load bars are designed to secure cargo during transport. Preventing cargo from moving during transport not only prevents damage to the items but also safety hazards that can arise when weight is shifted.

Here we will look at the purpose of each, how to use them, and which is right for your needs.

What is a Decking Beam?

A decking beam is a sturdy, expandable metal bar that can be used to both secure items and create additional space in your truck. Use the bar to extend across the width of your truck to keep items from shifting or use several to create a second, secure level to double your cargo space.

Heavy duty decking beams can expand up to 103” or be retracted down to 92” making them the perfect fit for most cargo trailers. They can also support up to 3000 lbs, making them capable of handling some of the largest shipments.

How to Use Decking Beams

For Secure Shipment: To secure items with a decking beam, simply expand the beam to fit the width of your trailer. Place it so it is securely against the items you want to keep from shifting. For larger, heavier, or taller items you can place multiple beams for extra security. This can be especially useful with awkward packages that are excessively tall or top heavy. Placing a bar at the top and bottom ensures it will not topple over.

To Increase Cargo Space: Create a rack with your decking beams by securing them above the bottom layer of your cargo. This will give you a secure place to stack a second layer of items. You can also use additional bars to prevent shifting on both the top and bottom layers.

Other Uses: Decking beams are most often used in shipping but they can also be helpful in creating additional storage space in your home or other property. As long as a space is the right size for the beams to fit against the walls securely, you can use them as you would in a trailer. Line up several to create a rack that will add another level to your storage space.

What are Load Bars?

Load bars are used in both pick up trucks and semi trucks to secure shipments and prevent damage. Use them with our E-track system for added security and versatility. Their purpose is similar to decking beams though they come in several varieties to fit different size shipments and systems.

Do I Need a Trailer Track System to Use Load Bars?

For lighter cargo loads you can use bars that do not require a track. These bars have rubber grips on their ends to prevent slipping on the trailer walls.  Expand the bars to snuggly fit against the walls of the trailer and the pressure will keep the bar in place without the use of a track system. The rubber feet on the ends of the bars will also improve grip here.

Make your trackless load bar successful by ensuring you do not put excessive weight on the bar. The amount of acceptable weight will depend on the bar itself.  Follow these tips when using a load bar without a trailer track system:

1. Test that the bar is secure by pushing the cargo into it. If the bar moves simply by pushing on it, the cargo may be too heavy for a trackless bar to hold. Driving over bumps and speeding down the road is likely to put even more pressure on the bar and definitely cause the load to shift.
2. Limit how far you travel with this type of load bar setup. The longer the trip, the more opportunity for the bar to slip. You may also want to increase how frequently you check on your cargo to ensure it has not shifted.
3. Use More than One Bar: Unsure if the bar is secure enough? Add another bar to distribute the weight that each is responsible for holding.

How to Use Load Bars

Load bars come in several varieties and can be configured in several ways to create the best, and most secure environment for your shipment. As discussed above, some use a track while others can be secured through pressure against the sides of the trailer.

There are also load bars that are used with a jack. Jack style load bars can be tightened more securely against the sides of a trailer with the help of the jack. While this type of bar is more secure than the trackless ones, you do run the risk of applying too much pressure. When using the jack, secure the bar to where it fits snuggly but does not start to put excessive pressure on the walls.

Load Bar Safety

1. Do Not Use Damaged Bars: When in a hurry it can be tempting to ignore a small dent or curve to a load bar but this is likely to cost you more in the long run. Should your load bars become damaged, replace them immediately. A damaged load bar is weaker and may break entirely under pressure. Similarly, a bend in a load bar means the bar will not be able to grip the walls securely.
2. Check Rubber Feet: The rubber ends on load bars are very important to the bar’s ability to grip the sides of the trailer. Ensure that these are not worn down or damaged before you use them to secure your shipment.
3. Use the Right Amount of Pressure: Load bars that do not use a track system secure themselves against the trailer walls with pressure.  It is important that you expand the bar just enough to ensure it is pressed tightly against the walls. Expanding it too far can put unnecessary and dangerous pressure on the walls of the trailer.

Are Load Bars the Same as Cargo Bars?

If you know what a “cargo bar” is, you may be wondering why a load  bar sounds so similar. That is because they are the same thing.  Both names are acceptable and both products will help to keep your shipments safe. They are also sometimes called “distribution bars” as they help to keep cargo evenly distributed to prevent a shipment from being unbalanced.

Choose the Right Decking Beam and Load Bars for your Cargo

Both decking beams and load bars are simple and easy to use. However, it is important that you choose the right ones and place them properly. Extra large or tall items may require additional bars or beams. Fragile items may need additional padding.

For help choosing the right decking or load bar system, contact Toronto Trailers at 416 477 5488. We offer everything you need for safe, secure cargo transportation.