3 Questions

1) My signature on the shipping papers means that I certify that the load quantity is correct. Now I understand that no one wants to actually sit there for hours watching the trailer get loaded even if they allowed it (all the doors leading to the warehouse floor I've seen say No Drivers Beyond This Point). But what happens if a load comes up short. Am I the scapegoat?

2) I've noticed that no one locks their trailer. Doesn't anyone worry about theft?

3) I forgot what the 3rd question was

Villain, it all depends on your company.

But Q1 is standard: You sign to accept the load. If the trailer is sealed when you pick it up, look for "SHIPPER LOAD AND COUNT" on the bill. That puts your worries on the shipper.

Q2: Locks. You get a seal, and all but the heavy bolt kind won't stop determined curious people. At Swift, there is an extra strong lock hasp added, and we carry a super strong lock (with an un-duplicatable key. And I'm sure no one will stop you from putting your own lock on the back. I'd suggest you check with your dispatcher to see if yo missed any company policies about load security.

As for #3, just post it here when you remember.

If they don’t allow you in the dock and its not there already write “SLC” next to your signature. That covers you, at most companies. I always put a lock on the trailer. Most companies make you buy one from them. If yours doesn’t I have a super duty one if we run across paths I’ll give you

I lock the trailer unless the shipper has put a bolt lock on it. I especially lock the empty trailer anytime I’m gonna be away from the truck. Even at a truck stop. The last thing I want is some idiot tossing his pee bottle in my empty trailer. Or opening the trailer door at the shipper and finding out I had passengers.