20 Sep Traveling Safely With a Load

Traveling Safely With a Load

Transporting materials, tools, equipment, or other cargo creates hazards that must be addressed before the vehicle moves. An improperly loaded or unsecured load can shift, fall from the vehicle, affect steering or braking, contribute to a rollover, or strike other motorists.

The driver is responsible for making sure the vehicle and its cargo are safe for travel before leaving.

Inspect and Secure the Load

As part of the pre-trip inspection:

• Verify that the cargo is properly positioned, distributed, and secured against movement.
• Inspect straps, chains, binders, tie-downs, ropes, racks, and anchor points for damage, excessive wear, or defects.
• Use cargo-securement equipment appropriate for the weight, size, and type of load.
• Make sure doors, tailgates, toolboxes, compartments, and other closures are secured.
• Remove or secure loose tools, materials, and debris that could fall or blow from the vehicle.
• Do not rely on the weight of an object alone to keep it in place.
• Ensure the load and securement system comply with applicable company and regulatory requirements.

Never use damaged or inadequate tie-down equipment.

Load Distribution

Poorly distributed cargo can affect vehicle stability, steering, braking, and handling. A sudden shift can cause the driver to lose control or the vehicle to overturn.

When loading:

• Do not exceed the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), axle ratings, or other rated capacities.
• Distribute weight as evenly as practical.
• Keep heavy items low and properly positioned to maintain vehicle stability.
• Secure individual items that could roll, slide, tip, or shift.
• Avoid excessive weight on one side, axle, or end of the vehicle.
• Do not load cargo in a way that interferes with the driver’s visibility or operation of the vehicle.

Check Height, Width, and Length

Before traveling, know the dimensions of the vehicle and load.

Consider:

• Height: Will the vehicle safely clear bridges, power lines, parking structures, tree limbs, and other overhead obstructions?
• Width: Does the load extend beyond the sides of the vehicle?
• Length: Does cargo extend beyond the front or rear of the vehicle?
• Markings: Are flags, lights, signs, or other markings required for an overhanging or oversized load?
• Permits: Does the size or weight of the load require a special permit?

Never assume an unfamiliar route has adequate clearance.

Open Trucks and Trailers

Materials transported in open trucks or trailers must be secured so they cannot escape, shift, or create a roadway hazard.

Use appropriate tie-downs, covers, tarps, or other securement methods when necessary. A tarp should supplement proper cargo securement—it should not be used as a substitute for securing the load itself.

Plan the Route

Before departure, consider whether the load creates special concerns along the planned route, including:

• Low-clearance bridges or structures.
• Steep grades.
• Sharp curves.
• Narrow roads.
• Construction zones.
• Weight-restricted roads or bridges.
• Weather and road conditions.

Adjust your speed and following distance for the vehicle’s weight and handling characteristics. A heavily loaded vehicle may require significantly more distance to stop.

Recheck the Load

Cargo can settle or shift after the vehicle begins moving. Stop in a safe location and inspect the load and securement devices as required, particularly after beginning the trip and following conditions that could cause the load to shift.

If a load becomes unstable or a securement device loosens or fails, stop in a safe location and correct the condition before continuing.

Remember

Safe transportation begins before the vehicle moves. Know the weight and dimensions of your load, distribute it properly, secure it correctly, inspect your equipment, and plan your route.

The goal is simple: you, the vehicle, and the entire load should arrive safely at the destination.