Q&A - Camper Tie Downs

Q&A ImageQ: Are there any specific regulations for truck camper tie-downs in BC? Iā€™m particularly interested in stake pocket tie downs, are they legal? I have a 900 pound camper.


Do you have a question that needs an answer? First, use seach to make sure it hasn't already been answered here. If not, send me a request and I will create a Q & A for you.

A: It depends on the licenced gross vehicle weight of the vehicle that you are hauling the camper with.

If the licenced gross vehicle weight of the truck is 5,000 Kgs or less, then yes, follow the tie down manufacturers recommendations and there is no requirement for the tie downs to be marked with a working load limit.  

This situation must meet the Motor Vehicle Act Regulations 35.04:

Cargo securement

35.04   Vehicles must be equipped and cargo must be contained, immobilized or secured in accordance with the applicable requirements of this Division and the Standard and so that it cannot

(a) leak, spill, blow off, fall from, fall through or otherwise be dislodged from the vehicle, or

(b) shift on or within the vehicle in a manner that affects the stability or manoeuverability of the vehicle.

If the licenced gross vehicle weight of the pick up truck exceeds 5,000 Kgs then National Safety Code Standard 10 Part 1 applies.  In this case you would need the tiedowns to be marked with a working load limit and the load limit for each tie down must be half the weight of the camper.

(If you mean the type that have a piece of square rubber block that expands as you tighten the bolt running through it) my experience is that they are good for really light stuff, that can be secured with rope.