Cargo
What the exam tests
Cargo questions cover securement, weight limits, and dimensions. The exam tests whether you can load and secure a vehicle legally and safely.
Core rules
- Gross vehicle weight limit is 80,000 pounds; single axle 20,000 pounds; tandem axle 34,000 pounds.
- Maximum height is generally 13 feet 6 inches; maximum width is 8 feet 6 inches.
- Use at least two tie-downs, and one additional tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo.
- Aggregate working load limit of tie-downs must be at least 50% of the cargo weight.
- Distribute weight evenly and check securement during the trip.
Worked example
A 20-foot pipe weighs 2,000 pounds. It needs at least two tie-downs because the length is over 10 feet but not over 20 feet. The tie-downs' combined working load limit must be at least 1,000 pounds. The reasoning is that both the number of tie-downs and their strength are regulated.
Traps that cost marks
- Counting tie-downs incorrectly for long cargo.
- Forgetting the 50% aggregate working load limit rule.
- Overloading an axle while staying under gross weight.
- Ignoring height or width limits on a route.
Exam tip
Cargo questions often combine length, weight, and tie-down strength; work through each limit separately.