Loads, weights and securing cargo

By the end of this topic you can

• You can find the gross and axle weight limits for your vehicle.
• You can explain why axle weights can change during a multi-drop delivery.
• You can describe the main ways of securing a load.
• You can decide what to do if a load moves during a journey.
• You can explain the extra training needed to carry dangerous goods.

What you need to know and understand

• Lorries carry a plate showing the maximum permitted gross weight and the maximum weight for each axle.
• Being within the gross weight is not enough: each axle must also be within its own limit.
• Overloading makes a lorry harder to steer and stop, damages roads and tyres, and is an offence.
• The Highway Code says you must not overload your vehicle or trailer, and you must secure your load so it does not stick out dangerously (rule 98).
• DVSA guidance says operators, drivers and the people who load goods (consignors) all have responsibilities for load safety.
• Drivers who carry dangerous goods need an ADR driver training certificate, which must be renewed every 5 years and carried while driving.

Gross weight versus axle weight

The plate on a lorry, usually in the cab or on the chassis, gives two kinds of limit. The gross weight is the most the whole vehicle can weigh when loaded. The axle weights are the most that each axle can carry.

You can be under the gross weight and still overload an axle if the load is badly placed. A heavy pallet right at the front can overload the front axle and make steering heavy. Weight too far back can lighten the steering axle and reduce grip.

• Load heavy items low and as close to the centre line as possible
• Spread weight evenly along the bed, as your loading plan shows
• Use a weighbridge if you are unsure of the weight

The multi-drop trap

On a delivery round, each drop changes how the weight is spread. Taking pallets off the back can shift more of the remaining weight onto the front axle, and an axle can end up overloaded even though the lorry is now lighter overall. Plan the load so the weight stays balanced as you unload, and move the remaining load if needed.

Keeping the load where it belongs

A load must not be able to slide, tip or fall off under hard braking, cornering or on rough roads. Friction alone is not enough. Use a method suited to the load and the vehicle.

• Blocking or bracing: placing the load tight against the headboard or a solid barrier so it cannot move
• Lashing: using straps or chains in good condition, correctly tensioned and rated for the load
• Anti-slip mats under the load to increase friction
• Curtain-sided vehicles: the curtains alone do not normally restrain the load; it must be secured inside

1. Check the vehicle bed, headboard and lashing points before loading.
2. Load to the plan, heaviest items low and central.
3. Secure the load and check straps, chains and sheets.
4. Recheck after a short distance and at each stop, as loads settle.
5. If the load moves, stop somewhere safe and re-secure it before going on. If you cannot make it safe, do not continue.

Dangerous goods basics

Dangerous goods include fuels, gases, chemicals and some batteries. Carrying them by road follows the international ADR rules. Drivers usually need an ADR driver training certificate for the types of goods carried, and must keep it with them while driving. It is renewed every 5 years. Vehicles carrying dangerous goods generally display orange plates, and drivers must carry the right documents and equipment. Small quantities can be exempt, so always check with your operator's dangerous goods adviser.

Common mistakes

• Checking only the gross weight. Each axle has its own limit.
• Assuming the curtain will hold a load in. Secure the load inside the vehicle.
• Not rechecking straps. Loads settle and straps loosen in the first few miles.
• Forgetting the weight shift after each drop on a multi-drop route.
• Carrying dangerous goods without the right training certificate.

Test yourself: Loads, weights and securing cargo

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.