A shifting load can cause an accident, delay, and requiring a load shift service means expensive downtime. Improper loading is the leading cause of a load shift. There are a few key things to avoid when loading your trailers or flatbeds. Preventing load shifts keeps drivers safe, trucks on the road and customers happy. It’s worth taking the extra time to ensure your cargo is loaded correctly.
Don’t overload
Overloading is very dangerous. Exceeding the gross vehicle weight rates can cause a load to shift, brakes to fail, and increase the distance drivers need to stop. Also, if the roads are slick or the weather is bad, you’ll find yourself in trouble fast.
Balance the Load
It is more likely to shift if your load is imbalanced or off-center. Unbalanced loads make handling difficult, impact safe turning, and the wrong amount of weight on the drive axle can impact traction. All these issues can cause sway, an accident, or the need for a load shift service.
Balancing the load also means watching its center of gravity. If the cargo is stacked is too high, it can lead to tipping and roll-overs. Keep the load stacked low to avoid hazards and the need for load recovery.
Secure the Cargo
You must secure cargo correctly to avoid load shifts. If it’s not braced or tied down right, it can shift and even fall from an open or flatbed trailer. Ensure all straps and tarps are secure, so they don’t flap and cause hazards for other drivers.
Get Drivers Involved
While loading and securing cargo is the responsibility of your warehouse and yard workers, your drivers play an essential role too. Include cargo checks in your pre and post-trip inspection checklist. They can also check that the vehicle and axle weights are within limits. The coupling and suspension ratings also need to be appropriate for each load. Drivers should also ensure that heavier cargo is beneath lighter cargo and all tie-down devices are tight and secure.
Pre-trip inspections conducted by the driver are critical to preventing load shift and load recovery. If you find yourself needing a load shift service, contact Team Pro-Enviro!
Team Pro-Enviro Performs Load Shift and Recovery Services
Pro-Enviro is a division of Pro-Tow 24 Hour Towing. The Pro-Enviro division specializes in motor vehicle fluid spill response, recovery, and cleanup. Another big part of what we do is load shift and load recovery services.
If you’re load shifts, or you need cleanup response, contact Pro-Enviro!
