Cargo Securement, Hours of Service, Load Limits and Documentation
This domain tests load control, securement, hours of service and paperwork for a Class C bus. On a passenger bus, “cargo” includes luggage, parcels and mobility devices, and the same weight and securement principles apply.
Securement and load limits
- Secure luggage and parcels so they cannot shift, block aisles, cover exits or strike passengers.
- Check baggage-compartment latches and overhead-rack limits.
- Never exceed the lesser of GVWR, GAWR, tire load rating or manufacturer's rating. Distribute weight evenly.
- Overweight or overdimension operation requires a permit; know the route restrictions.
Hours of service and documents
- Ontario commercial hours: no driving after 13 hours driving, 14 hours on-duty or 16 hours elapsed from start of shift; take at least 8 consecutive hours off.
- Follow the 70-hour/7-day or 120-hour/14-day cycle; complete a daily log.
- Carry the inspection report, registration, insurance, permits and any required manifest or bill of lading.
Worked example
A bus has a curb weight of 12,000 kg and a GVWR of 16,000 kg. It carries 40 passengers at 70 kg each (2,800 kg) and 1,400 kg of luggage. Total = 12,000 + 2,800 + 1,400 = 16,200 kg, which is 200 kg over GVWR. The driver must offload at least 200 kg of luggage or reduce the passenger load; checking only the gross weight is not enough if an axle is also overloaded.
Traps
- Adding passengers but not luggage to the weight calculation.
- Assuming GVWR is the only limit; axle ratings matter.
- Logging driving time but not on-duty time.
- Carrying unsecured items in the passenger compartment.