When loading a large vehicle, there are certain guidelines you should follow for the sake of safety and to make work easier. A straight truck is the most commonly used truck in the country. They are also referred to as box trucks. Straight truck freight loads are carried on the vehicle rather than on a trailer. Most will only have access from the back end. Here are a few tips on how to best load this kind of vehicle.
Stack Correctly
Cargo will often come in the form of boxes that need to be loaded. They may be boxes of different dimensions and weights. Start by loading the heaviest boxes first on the bottom rows. Anything lightweight and breakable should be at the top to reduce the risk of damage.
Delivery Schedule
If you are making multiple deliveries, be sure to organize your cargo in such a way you can easily access what needs to be delivered first. You do not want to stop somewhere along the way and have to move many items out of the way to gain access to the delivery you need to make at that time. This will mean wasting too much time along the way and delaying delivery for other customers who will be waiting.
Ensure Stability
If you have cargo that is likely to roll around or shift position while you are driving, you will need to find a way to secure it. From potholes to turning sharp corners, many situations can cause cargo to shift and you need to ensure no damage is done.
Distribute Weight Evenly
When arranging the heaviest cargo in a straight truck, you need to ensure a balance is achieved. You do not want too much load on one side. If it shifts while you are driving it can even cause the vehicle to roll. Spreading the load out evenly can help ensure stability and safety.
Check Box Labels
When dealing with different kinds of freight you need to know what is in each box. Check the box labels to ensure anything delicate or vulnerable is not stacked on and is well secured. Some items may also require that the box is kept in an upright position to avoid damage. Ensure you not only load it properly but also carefully handle it at times from receiving to delivery.
Use Necessary Equipment
When transporting heavy cargo, you should make use of equipment like dollies or forklifts. Avoid using just your physical strength as it may lead to injury. If not available, see if you can get others to help you carry the load safely.