24 Apr Different Types of Cargo Control for Truck Bodies

When it comes to truck bodies, one of the most important components of successfully transporting goods from one location to another is cargo control. The most popular truck body is the dry van, followed closely by the reefer. These two configurations account for the bulk of truck bodies ordered each year from manufacturers.

Carrying cargo across the road requires more than simply stacking boxes in a truck body and hitting the road. Transportation companies need to provide safe and secure transport of goods to ensure each load is delivered to their respective destinations in good condition. Cargo control allows shipping companies the ability to secure cargo in a truck body to prevent shifting while being transported.

Here we will discuss some of the most popular types of cargo control currently available in the truck body industry and what shippers should consider when choosing the right cargo control options for their fleet.

Straps and E-Track

One of the first things to consider when choosing cargo control for a dry van or reefer body is; what will be shipped? Cargo control configurations are primarily dictated by the goods being shipped in the unit. Being most products are shipped in boxes, ratchet and winch straps are the most commonly used forms of cargo handling. These straps come in varying lengths and strengths in order to accommodate different types of loads. Dry goods, foods, and other large products can also be shipped utilizing these versatile cargo handling systems.

Straps are most often attached to track that is attached to the side posts of the truck body. E-track is the most common track found in dry van and reefer bodies, with it typically being mounted directly on the wall or recessed to prevent the loss of interior width. Tracking can be mounted horizontally or vertically, depending on the load requirements. E-track is manufactured from high-strength steel that can also be galvanized for further resilience.

Additionally, E-track can also be used with shoring beams that provide extra strength for cargo control. These shoring beams allow haulers to maximize the amount of space they have in their trucks to accommodate the largest load possible. 

F-Track and Loading Bars

While not as popular as its counterpart E-track, F-track still remains a popular choice for cargo control, especially in refrigerated truck bodies. F-track works similarly to E-track in that it is directly attached to the side posts of the truck body, allowing for maximum strength. Loading bars are attached firmly to the tracking and can be moved to accommodate different-sized cargo requirements. F-Track remains a popular choice in the dairy industry for its versatility and ability to be used in unique configurations.

Cargo Control Posts

Similar to both E-track and F-track in their design, cargo control posts offer interior load control utilizing the side posts of the truck body. Each post is equipped with the ability to accommodate both straps and loading bars. This type of cargo control is almost always installed during the construction of the dry van or refrigerated body, as the side posts are a critical component in the unit’s structural integrity.

Load Lock Bars

Load lock bars differ from straps, and E-track shoring bars as no existing cargo control configuration needs to be installed to use them. Load lock bars are secured on the opposing walls with rubber foot pads that are welded or bolted to a steel or aluminum bar. Bars can be adjusted to work in varying widths and heights and come in different load capacities as well.

It should be noted that bars made from aluminum are most often used for lighter loads, whereas steel load lock bars are used in heavier-duty applications.

Slats

Slats are exactly what their name implies, large pieces of wood attached to the side posts of a truck body. Slats are most commonly used in the moving industry, as they are one of the least likely cargo control configurations to cause damage to large pieces of furniture. Slats are almost always made from solid wood like apitong. They’re also incredibly versatile, being each load a furniture hauler carries might be of a different size or dimension. By utilizing a slat configuration in a dry van truck body, the driver can quickly and securely tie down whatever load they’re hauling.

The Importance of Cargo Control in Shipping

Cargo control is an essential part of the shipping industry. Without adequate load control options, freight would quickly become damaged, and workers who load or unload the truck would be putting themselves at risk of injury or worse.

The aforementioned cargo control options are the most popular in today’s trucking industry, yet other options are available. A professional truck body distributor like ANJER, Inc. can custom design truck bodies to meet the needs of their customers and provide comprehensive schematics on the various cargo control options available to their customers.

ANJER, Inc. is a family-owned and operated trailer and truck body supplier located in Bensalem, PA. If you’re interested in purchasing from a certified Morgan truck body distributor near Philadelphia, PA, or are looking to buy a used trailer, contact their team today!