What is the purpose of cross-bracing in cribbing?

• A. To increase height.
• B. To provide stability and prevent shifting.
• C. To reduce the weight of blocks.
• D. To decorate the cribbing.

Answer: (B)

Stability under load is what cross-bracing is all about in cribbing. When cribbing blocks are stacked, a heavy load can push the stack to spread or rack. Diagonal supports run between opposite faces and create a triangular frame, turning the stack into a rigid, load-sharing structure. This arrangement resists shear and prevents shifting, so the cribbing stays in place and the load remains safely supported. The goal isn’t to gain height, reduce block weight, or add decoration.