Rank, I use 3/8" chains. That is probably the most versatile size to use. I think you will find more flat bedders using 3/8" than any other size. There is really no need to go with anything heavier.

Not all over-sized loads require a light. Unless the load is very wide, you may or may not want to use it. You can either mount it on the back of the trailer or on the product. I have used bungee's to keep the light on the product. I have a plug made into the rear of my step deck for a light. You can put a plug on one of the tail light wires to power your light on the trailer. If you want a light on your tractor and don't haul a lot of over sized loads, you can use duct tape to keep it on top of the truck and use a cigarette plug to power the light. It can be very expensive to put a permanent lighting system on your truck, depending on the type of lights. If you use a light in Georgia, make sure you get a permit. I believe Georgia is the only state in the U.S. which requires you to have a permit for a light. It only costs $2/per vehicle. Some over-sized loads have different requirements or restrictions as to using lights on over-sized loads. Everything should be outlined on your permits.

 

Not going to repeat what everyone else says because they are pretty complete but I carry in addition/different than the others

8 20'chains and 2 40' chains. The 2 40' chains are for belly wraps on pyramided pipe loads.

12 4x4" oak boards (and this is not always enough!)

Pipe Stakes, 3" channel, 4 - 3' tall and 4 - 1' tall, these slide into the stake pockets and hold the pipe steady, be sure to use chain and binder between to keep stake pockets from breaking off.

Hammer, nails and small wood blocks (or commercial plastic) for chocks to prevent pipe from spreading.

Did anyone say Winch Bar? Cheater?


Good luck and don't worry, with all of us telling you what to get, you will definitely get to the first shipper and need something else!!

 

I believe I listed a winch bar in my list, thebaldeagle655, but it doesn't hurt to mention it again. It would be a shame to be at a shipper with all the chains, straps, etc., and not have a winch bar. 8)

 

G-man, what is "belting" for the coil racks?

 

Red Clay Rambler, the rubber belting is about 4" x 4' x 1/4" thick. I use about 2 per coil rack. If it is a wide coil, I may use 3. You lay them across the beveled wood in the cradle of the coil rack. It helps to protect the coil and prevent it from slipping. Some shippers may require them. Most probably won't.

 

I couldn't remember if it had been mentioned or not. I carry two, that way when one of my friendly co-truckers "borrow" mine will still have one the next place I load/unload. Actually two since someone did borrow mine and I had to buy another then he returned it next time he saw me.