Load Securement for Granite Haulers 
This information is provided as guidance to those persons transporting granite blocks 3 (or more) tiedowns may be required, depending on weight and Working Load Limit in securement systems 
Tiedowns as close as possible to wood blocking 
 
Narrow end of tapered blocks/boulders must point forward 
 
General Rules:  The approximate weight of Georgia granite per cubic foot is 170 lbs. 1 
 A minimum of two (2) tiedowns per block are always required for blocks in excess if 1,100 lbs. each [393.110(b)] 
 Three (3) tiedowns per block may be required depending on the weight of the block and the working load limit (WLL) of the tiedown assemblies used [393.136(d)(1)] 
 Always use the weakest link in determining WWL per tiedown assembly (tensioner, chain, or anchor point) [393.108(a)] 
 The WLL of the tiedowns added together must equal at least one-half of the weight of the block of granite [393.136(d)(2)] 
 Only chains are authorized as tiedowns for blocks weighing 11,000 lbs. or more [393.136(c)]. 
 Each boulder must be supported on at least two pieces of 4" X 4" hard wood blocking extending the full width of the boulder [393.136(b)(2)]. 
 The tiedowns must be placed as closely as possible to the wood blocking used to support the boulder [393.136(d)(3)]. 
 
Use the following calculation to determine the weight of each block of granite: Length (ft.) X height (ft.) X width (ft.) X 170 = Weight of block Example: 6.5 ft. long X 3.25 ft. high X 4 ft. wide X 170 = 14,365 lbs. In this example a minimum of two tiedowns are required with the working load limits (WWL) totaling 7,183 lbs. (one-half the weight of the block of granite) 
1Thomas L. Watson, Geological Survey of Georgia: Bulletin No. 9-A (Atlanta: Franklin Printing, 1902) 
 
Fact Sheet #21 
 
Georgia Department of Public Safety 
 
Motor Carrier Compliance Division 
 
404-624-7211 
 
www.dps.georgia.gov