Freight glossaryCargo HandlingEquipmentTrucking
Blocking and Bracing
Definition
Blocking and bracing is restraining cargo with structures placed against or around it, such as blocks, shoring bars (load bars) and bulkheads, so it cannot slide or tip.
What it means
The federal rules define blocking as "a structure, device or another substantial article placed against or around an article of cargo to prevent horizontal movement," and a shoring bar as "a device placed transversely between the walls of a vehicle and cargo to prevent cargo from tipping or shifting."[1] In a dry van, shoring bars are commonly called load bars.
Blocking changes how many tiedowns a load needs. When an article is blocked against forward movement by a headerboard, bulkhead, other secured cargo or blocking, the minimum is one tiedown for every 10 feet of its length, instead of the higher counts that apply to unblocked cargo.[2]
Example
A partial load leaves open floor behind the last row of pallets. Two load bars set across the trailer behind that row stop it from sliding toward the doors when the truck accelerates or backs up.
Related
Related terms
- DunnageDunnage is loose material used to support and protect cargo, such as boards, blocks, void fill and inflatable...Glossary
- Cargo SecurementCargo securement is restraining freight on or inside a vehicle, with walls, blocking, bracing, dunnage or...Glossary
- Working Load LimitThe working load limit (WLL) is the maximum load that may be applied to a cargo securement component in...Glossary
- Load ShiftA load shift is freight moving from its loaded position inside a trailer or container during transit, such as...Glossary
Related freight problems
Related guides
Sources
- Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School, “49 CFR § 393.5, Definitions (cargo securement),” Federal regulation. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School, “49 CFR § 393.110, Minimum number of tiedowns,” Federal regulation. Accessed September 2026.
General operational information, not legal, customs or regulatory advice. Rules and rates change; confirm current requirements with the agency, carrier or contract that governs your shipment.