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Dry van seals and load locks: what the rules say and what to record

Helm PartnersUpdated Oct 30, 2026Sources checked Oct 30, 2026

This guide is general information, not advice on any policy.

Short answer

Load locks and shoring bars are among the means 49 CFR 393.106 lists to keep cargo from shifting in a van, along with dunnage, dunnage bags and tiedowns. The securement rules in Part 393 do not set seal requirements for general freight. Seal terms come from your shipper, broker or customer agreements. Record seal numbers at pickup and delivery.

In this guide
  • Load locks and the general rule
  • Where seal terms come from
  • What to record
  • FAQ

Load locks and the general rule

  • Cargo is immobilized or secured by structure, dunnage, dunnage bags, shoring bars, tiedowns or a mix (49 CFR 393.106(b)).
  • Load locks at the rear keep freight off the doors.
  • Use two or more bars on tall or partial loads, and check them at each stop.

Where seal terms come from

Seal rules for general freight come from your shipper, broker or customer agreements, not from Part 393. Read them before the load.

What to record

  • Seal number on the bill of lading at pickup.
  • Photos of the load and locks before the doors close.
  • Seal number and condition at delivery, signed.
  • Any seal change, with time, reason and who did it.

Related: general load securement rules for dry vans, paper roll securement in vans and on flatbeds, dry van insurance requirements, dry van cargo theft prevention.

FAQ

Are load locks required?

Not by name. 393.106(b) requires cargo to be immobilized or secured by structure, dunnage, dunnage bags, shoring bars, tiedowns or a mix. Load locks are one common way.

Does Part 393 require a seal?

The cargo securement rules do not set seal requirements for general dry van freight. Check your shipper, broker and customer agreements.

What if a seal number does not match?

Note it on the bill of lading before you sign, photograph it, and call your dispatcher and the shipper or broker.

Should drivers break a seal to check the load?

Follow your contract and the shipper's instructions. If a seal is broken for an inspection, record who broke it, when, and the new seal number.

This guide is general information, not advice on any policy.

Sources