Wheel Chocks for Semi Trucks: A Comprehensive Guide to Selection and Use

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Wheel chocks for semi trucks are a crucial safety device that prevents your rig from rolling or moving while parked. They come in different materials and designs, but the most common ones are made of metal and rubber.

The size and shape of the chock also vary, with some being specifically designed for certain types of trailers. According to the article, metal chocks are more durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, while rubber chocks are more flexible and can be used on slippery surfaces.

When choosing wheel chocks, consider the weight and size of your semi truck, as well as the type of terrain you'll be parking on. A good rule of thumb is to use chocks that are at least 2 inches thick and have a sturdy design to prevent them from bending or breaking.

Types of Wheel Chocks

There are several types of wheel chocks suitable for semi-trucks.

Block wheel chocks are a popular choice due to their durability and versatility.

Credit: youtube.com, What Are Wheel Chocks? - Big Truck Lovers

They are often made of heavy-duty rubber or plastic and can be used on various types of surfaces.

Pit wheel chocks, on the other hand, are designed for use on sloping surfaces, providing extra stability and security.

These chocks have a unique design that allows them to dig into the ground, preventing the semi-truck from rolling or moving.

Toro Type, Size, Quantity

When choosing the right wheel chocks for your vehicle, it's essential to consider the type, size, and quantity needed. You'll want to ensure they properly suit your application needs.

Your vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) will determine the type of wheel chock required. You can find more information on this in the TORO Wheel Chocks Chocking Procedures.

The type of wheel chock you need will also depend on your vehicle's environment, payload, and maximum GVW. This is why it's crucial to check the Chocking Procedures for land vehicle use.

The TORO Wheel Chocks Wheel Chock Reference Guide suggests choosing wheel chocks based on the Maximum Gross Vehicle Operating Weight (with payload) and Tire Size (or Tire Diameter) of the vehicle. This will help you select the right chocks for your vehicle.

Credit: youtube.com, The Importance of a Good Wheel Chock - Gear Up With Gregg's

You'll need to consider the following factors when selecting wheel chocks:

  • Gross Operating Weight (GVW)
  • Maximum Load Capacity
  • Tire Size (Diameter)
  • Chock models & proper chocking – factoring environmental conditions, ground surfaces and grade/level of ground surface

Here's a quick reference guide to help you choose the right wheel chocks:

Remember to test and qualify the wheel chocks for each application to ensure they meet site requirements. It's also essential to complete a risk assessment before using chocks and to check for any damage before use.

Wheel Comparison

When choosing the right wheel chock, the type of wheel is a crucial factor to consider.

A wheel chock's effectiveness depends on the type of wheel it's designed to fit.

For example, a wheel chock designed for a steel wheel can be too thin for a larger aluminum wheel.

Steel wheels are commonly used on heavy-duty vehicles, such as construction equipment.

Aluminum wheels, on the other hand, are often used on smaller vehicles, like cars and trucks.

Some wheel chocks are specifically designed to fit both steel and aluminum wheels, making them a versatile option.

These universal wheel chocks are often made of a thicker, more durable material to accommodate the larger size of aluminum wheels.

Choosing the Right Wheel Chock

Credit: youtube.com, How Do You Use Wheel Chocks For Trailers? - Big Truck Lovers

To select the correct wheel chock, you need to identify the tire diameter of your vehicle, as this will determine the right size chock needed.

You should also understand the Gross Vehicle Operating Weight (GVW) of your semi truck, as this will help you determine the necessary wheel chock for your specific requirements.

Each chock is designed to handle a certain amount of tonnage, so make sure to check the minimum weight limit of the chock you're considering. A minimum of two chocks is required per vehicle, so don't even think about using just one.

Be aware of the environmental conditions and ground surface the tires are exposed to, as the right chock should adhere to all types of surfaces.

How to Select

To select the right wheel chock, you need to identify the tire diameter of your vehicle to choose the correct wheel chock needed. This will ensure you're getting the right fit for your vehicle.

Credit: youtube.com, Correct Placement of Wheel Chocks Autorestomod 3 2 17 YT

You should also understand the GVW of your vehicle to determine the necessary wheel chock for your specific requirements. This will help you choose a chock that can handle your vehicle's weight.

Each chock is designed to handle a certain amount of tonnage, so make sure to check the minimum weight limit of the chock before making a purchase. A minimum of two chocks is required per vehicle.

Be aware of the environmental conditions and ground surface the tires are exposed to. Our chocks adhere to all types of surfaces, so you can rest assured they'll work in any situation.

Roblock

The ROBLOCK Wheel Chocks are a dependable option for keeping your vehicle secure. They have high grip edges that make placement and removal a breeze.

These wheel chocks are made with an anti-slip design, which helps prevent them from slipping or moving around while in use. This feature is especially useful on uneven or slippery surfaces.

The ROBLOCK Wheel Chocks are also weather and oil resistant, making them suitable for use in a variety of environments.

Safety and Security

Credit: youtube.com, Checkers UC Wheel Chocks Product Overview - General Purpose

Driver Industrial Safety's TORO Wheel Chocks Exceed Expectations. They surpass quality standards and comply with multiple industry safety requirements, including MSHA, OSHA, NFPA, DOT, SAE, and ANSI standards.

Proper chocking of tires is required to prevent a simple mechanical failure from becoming something far worse. Without chocks, a vehicle failure can result in fatalities.

Wheel chocks are a simple tool, but they're also an essential piece to ensure a safe trip. They help secure your vehicle from theft or movement, giving you confidence when stopped.

Before Using

First and foremost, it's crucial to understand the Gross Vehicle Operating Weight (GVW) of the vehicle to determine the necessary wheel chock for your specific requirements.

You must consider the Maximum Load Capacity, which is based per chock, and each chock is designed to handle a certain amount of tonnage, with a minimum of two chocks required per vehicle.

Tire Size is also a critical factor, as you need to identify the tire diameter of the vehicle to select the correct wheel chock needed.

A large semi truck labeled 'Supply Chain Solutions' travels down a highway under a cloudy sky.
Credit: pexels.com, A large semi truck labeled 'Supply Chain Solutions' travels down a highway under a cloudy sky.

Tire Pressure should be inline, as changing and shifting pressures can happen naturally with changes in the environment, and it's essential to ensure your tire pressure is stable.

Ground Surface Level or Grade is another vital consideration, as you need to be aware of the environmental conditions and ground surface the tires are exposed to, whether it's firm, soft, wet, dry, icy, or frozen.

Here are the key factors to consider when selecting the most appropriate wheel chock for each application:

  1. Gross Vehicle Operating Weight (GVW)
  2. Maximum Load Capacity
  3. Tire Size
  4. Tire Pressure
  5. Ground Surface Level or Grade

Regular visual examination of wheel chocks is also necessary to ensure they meet their requirements, as they require little to no maintenance but can develop cracks, chips, or other physical malfunctions that indicate the need for replacement.

Security and Safety

Proper chocking of tires is required to prevent a simple mechanical failure from becoming something far worse, as it can result in fatalities.

Using wheel chocks is a simple tool for truck drivers, but it's also an essential piece to help ensure a safe trip. Wheel chocks are extremely effective safety tools providing optimum security when used correctly.

A silver semi truck driving on an open highway under a clear blue sky.
Credit: pexels.com, A silver semi truck driving on an open highway under a clear blue sky.

According to OSHA, brakes shall be set and wheel blocks shall be in place to prevent movement of trucks, trailer, or railroad cars while loading or unloading. At least two chock blocks shall be provided.

Wheel chocks MUST BE used in pairs, positioned downhill firmly against the tire and below the truck's center of gravity. This means placing a chock in front of both front tires if the truck is disabled and traveling down a grade.

To ensure the wheel chocks perform up to their potential, numerous variables must be considered, including:

  • Wheel Size or Tire Diameter
  • Maximum Gross Vehicle Operating Weight
  • Grade or Level of the ground surface
  • Radial Tires vs. Bias Ply tires
  • Changing tire pressures
  • State or current condition of the ground surface

Investing in safety, such as using wheel chocks, can protect your fleet and team. By emphasizing their use and keeping them in top condition, your maintenance shop will stay compliant, efficient, and accident-free.

Materials and Design

When choosing wheel chocks for your semi trucks, the material and design of the chocks are crucial. Rubber chocks are durable and affordable, making them ideal for most fleet vehicles.

Credit: youtube.com, Heavy duty Wheel Chocks

Chocks can be made from various materials, each with its own benefits. Rubber chocks are a popular choice due to their affordability and durability.

Here are some key benefits of different wheel chock materials:

Remember to consider your fleet's vehicle weight, tire sizes, and operating environment when choosing the best type of wheel chock for your needs.

Urethane vs. Aluminum

Urethane wheel chocks are manufactured with high visibility orange and yellow safety colors, making them stand out in any environment.

One of the main advantages of urethane chocks is that they won't chip, peel, or get scratched up like metal chocks can. This means they'll maintain their safety colors and visibility even after repeated use.

Urethane chocks are also formed from a high impact absorbing material, which can help prevent damage to the chocks themselves and the surrounding area.

In contrast, aluminum chocks are at risk of tire puncture or tears, which can be a serious safety hazard.

Portrait of a confident truck driver in a safety vest, wearing sunglasses inside his vehicle.
Credit: pexels.com, Portrait of a confident truck driver in a safety vest, wearing sunglasses inside his vehicle.

Urethane chocks are also non-conductive, meaning they won't conduct electricity, which can be a major safety benefit.

Here are some key differences between urethane and aluminum wheel chocks:

  • Urethane: High visibility orange and yellow safety colors, high impact absorbing material, non-conductive
  • Aluminum: At risk of tire puncture or tears, conductive

Overall, urethane wheel chocks offer a range of benefits that make them a safer and more practical choice than aluminum chocks.

Urethane vs. Wood

Urethane vs. Wood Wheel Chocks are two different materials used for the same purpose, but they have distinct advantages. Urethane wheel chocks are completely maintenance-free, requiring only routine inspection.

One of the main benefits of urethane wheel chocks is their resistance to abrasion and harsh weather. Unlike wood, they won't start splitting, rotting, or cracking.

Urethane wheel chocks are also incredibly lightweight and high-impact absorbing. They're perfect for applications where weight is a concern.

Here are some key differences between urethane and wood wheel chocks:

Urethane wheel chocks are also designed with safety in mind, featuring built-in carrying handles and anti-skid cleated rubber traction pads to prevent delamination due to corrosion.

Materials vs. Design: Best Options?

Six Wheel Drive Big Industrial Truck in Parking Lot
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When choosing the best chocks for your fleet, material and design are crucial factors to consider. Rubber chocks are durable and affordable, making them ideal for most fleet vehicles.

If you're looking for a more lightweight option, polyurethane chocks are a great choice. They're also weather-resistant, perfect for outdoor use.

Steel chocks are heavy-duty and built for the largest commercial vehicles. They're the best option if you need to secure large or heavy vehicles.

When it comes to durability, polyurethane chocks have a much longer lifespan than rubber competition. They're also extremely resistant to abrasion and harsh weather.

Here are some key differences between urethane and rubber wheel chocks:

Ultimately, the best material and design for your chocks will depend on your fleet's specific needs and operating environment.

Durable Material

Our chocks are made from incredibly durable yet lightweight urethane material, making them ideal for rough environments. This material is perfect for use with heavy-duty vehicles such as loads, haul trucks, and cranes.

Credit: youtube.com, Understanding Material Strength, Ductility and Toughness

You can choose from a variety of materials for your chocks, each offering unique benefits. Rubber chocks are durable and affordable, ideal for most fleet vehicles.

The MC series of heavy-duty truck chocks features replaceable rubber traction pads and optional ice studs for excellent grip on almost all surfaces. This is especially important for use in harsh weather conditions.

Here's a comparison of different chock materials:

Consider your fleet's vehicle weight, tire sizes, and operating environment to determine the best type of chock for your shop.

Product Options

When choosing the right wheel chocks for your semi trucks, you'll want to consider the material options available. Rubber chocks are durable and affordable, making them ideal for most fleet vehicles.

If you're looking for a more specialized option, polyurethane chocks are a great choice. They're lightweight and weather-resistant, perfect for outdoor use.

Steel chocks are the heaviest-duty option, built for the largest commercial vehicles. They're a great choice if you're working with heavy-duty trucks that require extra support.

Here are some key material options to consider:

5 Best Semi Options

Diagnostic Tool of an Airplane on a Trailer
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When shopping for semi wheel chocks, it's essential to consider the materials used. Aluminum wheel chocks, like the Buyers Products WC6096A, are a great option as they are lightweight and durable.

If you're looking for a wheel chock that can grip in icy conditions, a ribbed surface is a must-have. The Buyers Products aluminum wheel chock has a ribbed surface that provides superior grip.

Here are some key features to look for in a semi wheel chock:

In addition to the material and dimensions, consider the size of the wheel chock. A larger wheel chock will provide more stability, but may be more difficult to store. A smaller wheel chock, on the other hand, may be more convenient to store, but may not provide as much stability.

Ultimately, the right semi wheel chock for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a lightweight and durable option that can grip in icy conditions, an aluminum wheel chock with a ribbed surface is a great choice.

Genubi Industry 2-Pack Heavy Duty

A Fire Truck Parked on the Street
Credit: pexels.com, A Fire Truck Parked on the Street

The Genubi Industry 2-Pack Heavy Duty Wheel Chocks are a great option for those who need a reliable and visible solution.

These chocks are designed with high visibility in mind, featuring three reflective yellow stripes that make them easy to see, regardless of the time of day.

The dimensions of these chocks are 7.8 x 4.1 x 3.9 inches, and they're made to withstand extreme temperatures, oil, and other harsh conditions.

They have a non-slip rubber bottom and increased friction with convex lines, making them perfect for heavy-duty use.

Here are some key features of the Genubi Industry 2-Pack Heavy Duty Wheel Chocks:

  • 3 reflective stripes for high visibility
  • Non-slip rubber bottom
  • Increased friction with convex lines
  • Resistant to ultraviolet light, oil, extreme temperatures, and moisture

Cost and Comparison

Cost is a major factor to consider when purchasing wheel chocks for your semi truck, but it shouldn't be the only thing you think about.

The price range of wheel chocks can vary greatly, with budget-friendly options available alongside higher-priced products.

You don't necessarily need to spend a lot of money to get a good wheel chock, but you also shouldn't settle for the cheapest option that may not do the job well enough.

Knowing your specific needs before making a purchase is crucial to finding the right wheel chock for your semi truck.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the OSHA rule for wheel chocks?

According to OSHA regulations, employers must use chocks or similar measures, such as dock locks, during loading or unloading operations to prevent vehicles from moving. This safety requirement is specified in 1910.26(d), 1910.178(k)(1), and 1910.178(m)(7).

What size wheel chocks do I need?

Choose wheel chocks that are ¼ the height of your tires and suitable for your vehicle's weight rating (GVOW) to ensure safe and effective use

Where do wheel chocks go on a semi trailer?

Wheel chocks should be placed behind the wheel on one side and in front of the wheel on the other side of a semi-trailer to prevent it from rolling. Proper placement of wheel chocks is crucial for safety and securing the trailer in place.

Felicia Larson

Writer

Felicia Larson is a seasoned writer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for logistics. Her work focuses on the intricate world of shipping companies, where she delves into the complexities of global logistics and supply chain management. Through her articles, she aims to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the industry, from the latest technological advancements to the challenges faced by shipping companies.

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