 |  | HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RESTRAINT
The most important things to consider when evaluating different restraints is how well they prevent trailer separation and how reliably they communicate. Factors specific to your operation will also help guide the selection process. Not all restraints perform the same. You need to consider:
Your Specific Needs
- Types of trailers you service
- Dock layout
- Loading practices
- Facility design
Restraint Effectiveness Against Trailer Creep
- Below dock endloads
- Air-ride trailers
Restraint Effectiveness Against Early Departure
- Gradual vs. aggressive pullout attempts
- Effectiveness of different restraint designs
Restraint Effectiveness Against Trailer Tipover
- Landing gear failure
- Trailer up-ending
- Collision with other trucks
Communication
- System components
- Safe/unsafe condition alerts
Types of Vehicle Restraints: There are several different types of vehicle restraints. Each style provides a different degree of protection against trailer separation.
RIG Dependent - Restraint attaches onto the trailer’s RIG (rear impact guard or ICC bar) Vertical barrier restraints - Can address trailer creep and early departure Rotating hook restraints - Can address trailer creep, early departure, landing gear failure and trailer tipover
Wheel Dependent - Restraint engages trailer’s rear wheel(s) instead of the RIG. Used often with lift gate trailers.
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| What are the Questions to Ask When Choosing a Restraint? |
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