ELDT Handling and Documenting Cargo 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of a header board (headache rack) on a flatbed?
- To hold spare tires
- To protect the driver from forward-shifting cargo (Correct answer)
- To store paperwork
- To reduce wind drag only
Correct answer: To protect the driver from forward-shifting cargo
The header board protects the driver from cargo that could shift forward during a hard stop.
Question 2: When hauling a sealed trailer, what should the driver verify against the shipping papers?
- The engine oil level
- The seal number and that it is intact (Correct answer)
- The tire pressure
- The trailer color
Correct answer: The seal number and that it is intact
Drivers should confirm the seal number matches the paperwork and that the seal is unbroken.
Question 3: What is a common cause of cargo becoming loose during transport?
- Straps loosening from vibration and cargo settling (Correct answer)
- Cold weather only
- Driving too slowly
- Empty fuel tank
Correct answer: Straps loosening from vibration and cargo settling
Road vibration and cargo settling can loosen tie-downs, which is why re-checks are required.
Question 4: What is 'blocking and bracing' used for?
- Cleaning the cargo area
- Preventing cargo from sliding or tipping (Correct answer)
- Cooling the trailer
- Weighing the load
Correct answer: Preventing cargo from sliding or tipping
Blocking and bracing keeps cargo from moving forward, backward, or sideways.
Question 5: For every 10 feet of cargo, at least how many tie-downs are generally required?
- One additional tie-down (Correct answer)
- Five tie-downs
- No tie-downs
- Ten tie-downs
Correct answer: One additional tie-down
Rules require a minimum number of tie-downs based on length, adding one for each additional 10 feet.
Question 6: What must a driver do if cargo securement is found unsafe during a trip inspection?
- Continue and fix it at delivery
- Correct the securement before continuing (Correct answer)
- Ignore it if close to destination
- Call the shipper only
Correct answer: Correct the securement before continuing
Unsafe securement must be corrected before the driver continues the trip.
Question 7: What information does a bill of lading typically NOT include?
- Description of goods
- Shipper and consignee
- Driver's personal medical history (Correct answer)
- Number of pieces or weight
Correct answer: Driver's personal medical history
A bill of lading covers the freight details, not the driver's personal medical records.
ELDT Handling and Documenting Cargo 3
What is the purpose of a header board (headache rack) on a flatbed?