Why rebar needs careful securing
Rebar is heavy, long and smooth, so it can slide under braking and cornering if it is not properly restrained. Securing it correctly protects the driver, other road users and the load itself.
The European Commission's best practice guidelines on cargo securing estimate that up to 25% of accidents involving trucks can be attributed to inadequate cargo securing. Steel is one of the loads where the consequences are most serious, because a moving bundle carries a great deal of energy.
Step 1: Plan the load
- Weight. Know the total weight and the weight of each bundle. The load must stay within the vehicle's legal limits – see UAE weight and axle-load rules.
- Length. Know the longest bar. The deck must suit it, and any overhang must be within the rules and clearly marked.
- Unloading. Know how the load will come off at site, usually by crane or other lifting equipment, so bundles can be placed and spaced to suit.
Step 2: Check the vehicle and deck
Before loading, check that the deck is clean and dry, that the headboard is sound, and that lashing points, straps and ratchets are in good condition. Damaged straps or worn ratchets should be replaced, not used "just this once".
Step 3: Use dunnage
Place timber bearers (dunnage) across the deck before loading. Dunnage lifts bundles off the deck so lifting slings can be passed underneath at site, and it spreads the load. Bearers should be sound, of even height and placed so each bundle is supported along its length.
Step 4: Place bundles correctly
- Load bundles low and close to the headboard, so the headboard helps stop forward movement under braking.
- Keep the weight centred across the width of the deck and spread along its length to suit the axles.
- Place heavier bundles at the bottom; separate layers with dunnage.
- Avoid gaps between bundles where they could gain momentum.
Step 5: Restrain every bundle
Use webbing straps or chains over the load, tensioned with ratchets, so the friction between the load and the deck – and the headboard – keeps it in place. The number of restraints needed depends on the weight of the load and the friction between surfaces; the European guidelines set out the method for calculating it. As a principle, every bundle must be held, not just the top layer, and short loads must not be left unrestrained between longer ones.
Step 6: Protect edges and straps
Steel edges can cut webbing straps, and straps can damage coated bars. Use edge protectors or sleeves where straps cross bundle edges. This protects both the restraint and the steel.
Step 7: Mark overhangs
If bars extend beyond the deck, the overhang must be within the permitted limits and clearly marked so other road users can see it. Where the load needs more length, choose a longer deck rather than accepting an excessive overhang.
Step 8: Check, then check again
Inspect the load before departure. Loads settle in the first part of the journey and straps can lose tension, so stop and re-check after the first few kilometres and after any heavy braking. Re-tension straps as needed.
Step 9: Unload safely
At site, keep people clear of the load while straps are released, because bundles can move once restraint is removed. Lift bundles using the gaps created by the dunnage, with tag lines to control them, and follow the site's lifting plan.
Quick checklist
| Stage | Check |
|---|---|
| Before loading | Weight known, deck clean, headboard sound, straps and ratchets in good condition |
| Loading | Dunnage placed; bundles low, centred and against the headboard; no gaps |
| Securing | Every bundle restrained; edge protection fitted; overhang marked |
| On the road | Re-check after the first few kilometres and after heavy braking |
| At site | People clear; straps released carefully; lift with control |
How Nafees Transport handles steel
At Nafees Transport, steel bars, rebar bundles and pipes are loaded, strapped and secured on our trucks and flatbed trailers before they leave. See our steel and rebar haulage service, and the companion guide on how rebar, bars and pipes are bundled.
Need materials moved?
Nafees Transport is a Dubai-based transport company that moves construction and industrial materials, steel and rebar across all seven emirates. Send your requirement through the quote form or WhatsApp on +971 54 161 0526, Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 6 PM.
Sources
- European Commission – European Best Practice Guidelines on Cargo Securing for Road Transport (2014)
- Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure – Table of maximum weights and dimensions of heavy vehicles on federal roads (January 2024)
Road rules change. Always check the latest notice from the relevant authority before dispatch.