Secure Your Load: Essential Tips

• Use the Right Equipment: Use ropes, straps, and tarps specifically designed and rated for your load's weight.
• Tie Down Securely: Securely fasten your load to prevent movement during sudden traffic shifts. Also, ensure it's tied in a way that prevents loosening during transport.
• Balance Your Load: Distribute weight evenly to avoid shifting while driving.
• Don't overload: Ensure the load is within the vehicle's or trailer's capacity.
• Regularly Inspect: Check your load's security, especially on long journeys.
• Contain Small Items: Use bags, boxes, or containers for small, lightweight items like food wrappers to prevent wind dispersal.

Greenville County's Annual "Haul Smart, Do Your Part" Campaign!

Every June, we partner with the Sheriff's Office and PalmettoPride to educate residents and businesses about SC 56-5-4100 (unsecured loads). This campaign, aligned with the statewide Zero Tolerance for Litter initiative, focuses on legal compliance, practical securement techniques, and safety awareness.

What We're Doing:

• Educating about the laws and penalties for unsecured loads.
• Highlighting enforcement efforts and how to report violations.
• Providing video demonstrations on proper load securement.
• Demonstrating the link between unsecured loads and roadside litter.
• Emphasizing the safety risks for all drivers.
• Business outreach and recognition for responsible practices.
• Distributing free tarps and bungee cords to residents.

Free Tarps & Bungee Cords Available!
Thanks to PalmettoPride's ongoing support, Greenville County Litter Ends Here has distributed over two thousand free tarps and bungee cords to Greenville County residents. Request yours today by emailing litter@greenvillecounty.org.

FAQ: Securing Your Load (SC 56-5-4100)

Q: Do I have to secure tree branches, yard waste, and leaf debris?
A: Yes. SC 56-5-4100 requires you to prevent any materials from escaping your vehicle. This includes tree branches, yard waste, and leaf debris. Even seemingly light items can become dangerous projectiles or road hazards when carried by wind. Secure these items with tarps, netting, or by containing them within boxes or bags.

Q: If something is heavy enough that the wind cannot pick up the items, do I still need to secure it?
A: Yes. While wind may not be a concern for very heavy items, SC 56-5-4100 mandates preventing materials from escaping in any way, including falling, shifting, or rolling off during transport. Sudden stops, turns, or bumps in the road can dislodge even heavy objects. Secure all loads regardless of weight.

Q: I put all my loose or household trash into trash bags, why do I have to tie or strap the trash bags to my truck bed?
A: While trash bags are excellent for containing loose trash, they must be secured to your vehicle. SC 56-5-4100 requires preventing materials from escaping in any way, including falling or shifting. Sudden stops and bumps can dislodge even full bags of trash. In fact, full trash bags are among the most common items the Greenville County Litter Department removes from roadways.

Q: Do I have to use a “tarp” specifically?
A: No, but you must use a suitable covering or securement method that will effectively prevent materials from escaping. The law doesn't specify a "tarp" exclusively. You can use strong netting, sturdy boxes, heavy-duty straps, or other means that provide equivalent securement. The goal is to ensure nothing falls, blows, or leaks from your vehicle.