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core rules

Large Boulders

Large boulders create irregular contact points and high movement risk. The federal commodity section should be read closely before loading.

Risk: high Last reviewed: Indexable

Quick Answer

Large boulders create irregular contact points and high movement risk. The federal commodity section should be read closely before loading.

Irregular shape changes everything

A boulder may sit on a small contact patch, roll from an unexpected edge, or let a chain slide into a different position after movement. The securement plan should start with shape and contact, not equipment count.

The federal source makes this an indexable commodity page, but the exact load still needs careful field review. Two boulders with the same weight can behave differently if one has a flat bearing face and the other rests on rounded points.

Questions before loading

Identify the approximate weight, shape, contact points, intended orientation, and whether the boulder can be blocked without splitting dunnage or damaging the deck. If the stable face is not obvious, the load needs more review.

Ask how the boulder will be placed and removed. Handling method does not replace road securement, but it can expose whether the planned support points are temporary or suitable for transport.

Red flags before departure

Watch for rounded contact points with no blocking, dunnage that can split, chain contact that can slip, and cargo that can climb over a stop during braking or turning.

Look for straps or chains bearing on a high point that may chip, crumble, or let the device move. If a boulder cannot be described in a stable orientation, escalate the load plan.

Securement review areas

Review blocking, dunnage, anchor points, chain or strap path, edge contact, deck condition, and whether the restraint direction matches the likely movement path.

Large irregular cargo often tempts a driver to rely on weight alone. Weight may resist movement, but it does not remove roll, slide, tip, or falling-cargo concerns.

Photos and notes

Helpful photos show the boulder from several angles, blocking contact, tiedown contact, dunnage, anchor points, and the deck area around the load. A single side photo usually does not show enough geometry.

Notes should focus on observed shape, contact, and visible securement concerns. Do not convert an unusual load into a simple formula unless a controlling source and qualified plan support it.

What this page does not decide

This page does not approve a boulder orientation, choose a blocking pattern, or substitute for live review of weight, shape, equipment ratings, and carrier policy.

Source notes

This page maps to 49 CFR 393.136 and avoids creating a generic boulder formula.

Checklist

  • Identify roll, tip, and slide paths.
  • Use suitable blocking and tiedown methods under the current rule.
  • Check edge contact and device protection.

Practical Notes

This topic carries elevated securement risk. Verify the current eCFR rule text, carrier policy, shipper requirements, manufacturer ratings, and the physical condition of every device before a truck moves.

Primary Sources / References

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