Numerous sources provide detailed information as to the loading, blocking, bracing, and unloading of specific types of cargo in unimodal and intermodal transport. Some of these sources are proprietary, others are massive and complex in scope, and none are consistently promulgated to shippers, carriers, and consignees. Many of the losses experienced by cargo in transport are due to the failure to practice proper basic cargo handling and loading techniques. These practices are intended to outline those techniques in simple, clear, generic, and easy to promulgate formats, including posters, slides, videotapes, and pamphlets, and are further intended to serve as the basis upon which a comprehensive cargo handling methodology may be built.

Users of these practices should avail themselves of the detailed resource information available. The practices as defined are not sufficient to form a complete cargo handling protocol.

1.1 These practices are intended to serve as a guide to shippers, carriers, and consignees for load planning, loading, blocking, and bracing of intermodal and unimodal cargo in surface transport. The practices are referenced to a bibliography of information concerning the above. Hazardous materials, bulk cargo, non-containerized break bulk in ocean carriage, and transport of cargo by air are not included in these practices at this time.

1.2 These practices shall apply to cargo in surface transport on flat bed, open top, box car, truck van and intermodal containers.

1.3 The practices are intended to form a framework for the safe and effective loading and unloading of cargo in intermodal and unimodal surface transport. They are not intended to provide comprehensive detail relating to specific types of cargo, but will reference to source materials wherein such detail may be found.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.