Safe Transportation of a Load - Vanarama’s Best Practise Guide for Van Drivers

It is important that a you apply a safety first policy to loading and securing loads that are to be transported. Vanarama's Carrying Goods Checklist should ensure that a load is as safely transported as possible.

  • · Try and understand the risks of the load. Liquids for example, will have different risks than a palletted load.
  • · All vehicles whose dimensions exceed 10 feet (3M) must have the height of the vehicle displayed in the cab for the drivers information
  • · Loads should be spread as evenly as possible across the loading area.
  • · Heavier items should be placed at the bottom so they can support lighter ones
  • · Always ensure the load is secure. Use securing equipment where needed
  • · Familiarise yourself with your vehicles dimensions before you begin your journey

Stacking a Load Safely

It is essential that loads are stacked correctly and that securing equipment is used where needed. Loads that have been correctly stacked will not shift position or fall out of the van when the doors are opened. Correctly stacked loads have less chance of being damaged when transported, and will not affect steering, braking or handling of the van.

This checklist from Vanarama will help you to correctly stack a load

· Use correct racking for the load

· Only carry what you have to

· Ensure load restraining systems are up to the job

· The heaviest part of the load (its centre of gravity) should be kept as low and central as possible. This is the safest way to carry a load.

· To that end, lighter items should be stored in around the edges and stacked on top of heavier ones. All items should be secure, and no item should be able to move around in the back

· Extra care should be taken if transporting dangerous goods

· No item should be unsecured

All equipment transported on a trailer must be secure by law. It should not pose a danger to van occupants or other road users.

According to the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency, of the 6050 vans weighed, 55% were overloaded.