Hauling terms
Headrack
By Mike Shelton · Updated · How we check facts
Headrack: A headrack, also called a headache rack or headerboard, is the strong wall mounted behind a truck's cab or at the front of a trailer deck. It blocks cargo from sliding forward into the cab under hard braking, and it counts as part of the cargo securement system when cargo rests against it. 49 CFR 393.114Checked October 2026
The federal rule
When cargo is in contact with the front end structure, the structure must reach 4 ft above the vehicle floor, or high enough to block the cargo if that is lower, and be as wide as the vehicle, or wide enough to block the cargo if that is narrower. It must also meet set strength requirements. 49 CFR 393.114Checked October 2026 A headrack that blocks an article's forward movement also lowers the number of tiedowns that article needs: one per 10 ft of length instead of the unblocked rule. 49 CFR 393.110(c)Checked October 2026
Where it matters most
Log trucks and flatbeds hauling steel, pipe and lumber depend on headracks, because their loads are heavy, long and can shift forward in a sudden stop. Car haulers and some specialty trailers use front structures too. A cracked or bent headrack doesn't protect anyone, so it belongs on the pre-trip inspection.
In practice EXAMPLE
A flatbed hauling a 20 ft bundle of steel pipe sets the bundle tight against the headrack. Because the bundle is blocked forward, it needs at least two tiedowns for its 20 ft, one per 10 ft, instead of the three an unblocked 20 ft article would need. The driver still chains it properly and checks the headrack for cracks before leaving. Check counts with the load securement calculator, and see the logging truck guide for headracks on log trucks.
Inspecting a headrack
Check the headrack on every pre-trip: look for cracks at the welds and mounts, bent uprights, missing bolts and damage from loading equipment. A headrack that has been hit by a forklift or grapple may look fine from the cab but be badly weakened where it bolts to the frame. Repair or replace damaged structures before hauling heavy cargo against them, because a failed headrack offers no protection in the one moment it is needed.
Questions
01Is a headache rack required on a flatbed?
Cargo must be secured against forward movement one way or another. A front end structure that meets the federal height, width and strength rules is one way, and it lowers the number of tiedowns needed for blocked cargo. Without one, the cargo needs enough tiedowns and blocking under the general securement rules.