Glossary

Load Bar

A load bar is an interior load control device used to help block or restrain freight in a trailer.

Plain-English Meaning

Load bars are used in dry vans and reefers to help keep freight from moving. They need a suitable trailer surface or track and must be placed against freight that can handle the pressure.

A load bar is not a magic wall. Cargo can settle, packaging can crush, and trailer tracks can be damaged or weak.

In day-to-day freight work, the safest use of the term is narrow and factual. Confirm the current rule, equipment rating, shipment condition, and company procedure before using any glossary definition for a live securement decision.

Watchouts

  • Inspect rubber feet, locks, fittings, and trailer tracks.
  • Do not block required reefer airflow.
  • Do not rely on a load bar against unstable freight without other controls.

Related Terms

Primary Sources / References

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