18 
BULLETIN 1412, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 
Irrespective of the types of packages used, all end-to-end slack 
should be taken up as the loading proceeds, beginning with the first 
stack of containers placed in the car. If a small amount of play is 
left between the stacks, it is practically impossible to tighten up 
the load by forcing a bracing tightly into position between the doors; 
the bracing is almost certain to loosen up and perhaps to collapse 
as a result of the weaving and the end thrusts encountered in transit. 
Loose loading frequently results in breakage and damage. 
The first stack should be placed solidly against the bunker and 
each succeeding stack placed firmly in contact with the packages 
already in position. If measurement of the car prior to loading- 
shows that some end play may be expected which will be too small 
to permit the construction of a center bracing, this space can be taken 
up as the loading progresses by nailing car strips to the front of a 
few stacks of packages. 
Fig. 13. — Diagram of center bracing recommended for use in loading lettuce 
Directions for constructing the center bracing shown in Figure 22 
are as follows : 3 
For uprights A and B and braces D use 2 by 4 inch lumber : the horizontal 
strips C may be 1-inch boards. Make two gates as shown on the left : one 
upright (A or B) to be in the center of each row of packages: the horizontal 
strips C to be nailed to uprights. One upright (B) in each gate should extend 
to the ceiling of the car to prevent buckling of the brace. Place one gate 
against each end of the load with the uprights touching the packages. Wedge 
braces D tightly into position between the gates at top. bottom and center. 
toe-nailing securely to the horizontal strips. Nails should not be driven into 
the car floor, walls or ceilings. The diagram at the right in Figure 13 shows 
the bracing assembled. 
REFRIGERATION 
Shipments m which the bunkers are kept filled with ice until the 
car arrives at its destination are said to be made under " Standard 
3 I. C. C. No. 10. Specifications of Standard Containers for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables 
and Loading Rules No. 3. issued by agent for numerous carriers. Oct, 26, 1921. Present 
address of agent is 101 Marietta Street. Atlanta. Ga, 
