Advice for Hauling Steel Plate

X-chain the front. Use a chain across the load in the front, middle and rear. If you think you need to X-chain the back, do so. I like to use straps on the load because you can get the straps really tight, use edge protectors. If the different layers are separated with dunnage, you can belly strap to make the load more secure.

 

Exactly how he said..do it like that and you won't have any problems. ..

 

I dont carry 5/16 chains , I like to run a chain at the front of the load and at the rear, I run the chain across the plate but like to make "chain loops" at each end so that each loop secures the plate at the corners and avoids the plate move forward, then I sucure the rest of the load.
Im a dummie but I hope I gave you a visual or expleained myself well.

 

Use what you have, it won't make a difference.

 

Dry plates do not slide. Oily sheets maybe, dry plate no. Just chain straight across stake pocket to stake pocket. Put a block under the chain on top of the plate. Then put the binder close to the 4X4 block,this way it lifts the chain up a little and makes it easier to snap or crank the binder. If you use snap binders try to get one hook hooked back into the chain on top of the plate. That way if you need 1/2 link you can do it without getting down off the load. When you have multiple plates try to put your blocking over the blocking on the first plate. Then put your chain as close to the blocking as you can. This puts even pressure on the entire load.

 

dilley, the 3/8 will be fine, 5/16ths would also be fine . on most standard flats or steps for that matter the stake pockets and spools have a wll rating,

using a bigger chain without a bigger rated anchor point is useless, the lowest rating of the securement system is the factor . example if ya got 6000 pound rating on your spools a 1/2 chain and binder would be overkill as it would be worth only 6000 pounds on a 6000 pound spool.

that the reason I carry 5/16ths only with my flat , anything else is a waste of weight

 

5/16 ths would be fine for your trailer then.