Load Securing, Weights, Dimensions and Cargo Transport
Weights and dimensions
Belgian and EU rules set maximum authorised masses: generally 40 tonnes for a five-axle articulated combination, and 44 tonnes for certain combined transport operations. Axle loads are limited, commonly 11.5 tonnes for a drive axle and 10 tonnes for a single non-drive axle, so a legal gross weight can still hide an illegal axle load. Maximum width is 2.55 m (2.60 m for refrigerated bodies), height 4 m and length 16.5 m for articulated vehicles. Exceeding these requires an exceptional transport permit.
Securing the load
The driver is responsible for load securing. Forces during braking and cornering can exceed the weight of the load, so lashing alone is rarely enough; blocking, headboards and friction mats are essential. The rule of thumb is that the securing system must withstand at least the force generated by full braking, roughly 0.8 g forward. Use the lashing capacity marked on straps, never exceed it, and inspect straps for cuts and worn ratchets.
Traps in questions
A frequent trap is assuming the headboard alone secures the load, or that a tarpaulin counts as load securing. Another is confusing gross vehicle weight with payload: payload is the difference between the maximum authorised mass and the kerb weight, and must include the driver, fuel and equipment.
Worked example
A trailer has a maximum authorised mass of 24 tonnes and a kerb weight of 7 tonnes, giving a payload of 17 tonnes. If the driver, fuel and equipment weigh 0.5 tonnes, the maximum cargo is 16.5 tonnes. Always calculate the axle loads as well, because a legal total can still overload the rear axle.