Load Securing, Weights and Dimensions
This domain tests your understanding of how to load a commercial vehicle safely and legally, and the weight and dimension limits that apply. Learn the principles of load distribution: keep the centre of gravity low and central, spread weight evenly, load heavier items first and against the headboard, and never exceed the axle or gross weights. Understand the difference between gross vehicle weight, gross train weight, axle weights and payload, and why a load can be legal on total weight but illegal on an axle.
Know the securing methods - lashing, straps, chains, load bars, curtains and sheeting - and the principle that a load must be secured against forward, rearward and sideways movement, including emergency braking. Understand why restraints must be rated for the load and inspected for wear, and why a curtain-sided trailer does not by itself secure a load.
Dimension and weight questions test height, width and length limits, the need to know your vehicle's height (including any roof equipment), and how overhanging loads must be marked. Traps include assuming a load is secure because it 'looks heavy', forgetting that axle limits can be breached while gross weight is fine, and ignoring that load security is the driver's responsibility even when someone else loaded the vehicle.
Worked example: A pallet of dense goods is placed at the rear of a box body. Gross weight is within limit but the rear axle is overloaded and the front axle is light, reducing steering grip. The fix is to move the load forward and redistribute, not simply to add straps.
Rule of thumb: weigh it, spread it, secure it in all directions - and know your height before you drive under anything.