Glossary
Dunnage
Dunnage is material placed under or around cargo to support, separate, protect, or stabilize it.
Plain-English Meaning
Dunnage can create forklift clearance, spread load pressure, protect cargo, or help keep freight from rolling. It is common on pipe, steel, lumber, machinery, and many open-deck loads.
The material and placement should match the load. Weak, wet, split, narrow, or poorly placed dunnage can create movement and damage risk.
Look for dunnage that can roll, crush, slide, or leave the load unsupported between contact points. Dunnage is part of the load path, not just packing material.
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
- Dunnage can crush or roll if undersized.
- Uneven dunnage can make a load unstable.
- Dunnage is not a substitute for required securement.
- Recheck after settling on heavy or irregular freight.
Related Terms
Primary Sources / References
Last reviewed:
- FMCSA Cargo Securement Rules Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration · official · reliability: high
- 49 CFR Part 393 Subpart I - Protection Against Shifting and Falling Cargo Electronic Code of Federal Regulations · regulation · reliability: high