Section 3: Transporting Cargo Safely

Section 3: Transporting Cargo Safely

This Section Covers
• Inspecting Cargo
• Cargo Weight & Balance
• Securing Cargo
• Liquids in Bulk
• Other Cargo Needing Care

This section tells you about hauling cargo safely. You must understand basic cargo safety rules to get a CDL.

If you load cargo wrong or do not secure it, it can be a danger to others and yourself. Loose cargo that falls off a vehicle can cause traffic problems and others could be hurt or killed. Loose cargo could hurt or kill you during a quick stop or crash. Your vehicle could be damaged by an overload. Steering could be affected by how a vehicle is loaded, making it more difficult to control the vehicle.

Whether or not you load and secure the cargo yourself, you are responsible for:
• Inspecting your cargo
• Understanding the effects of overloads and poorly balanced weight
• Knowing your cargo is properly secured

These are discussed below.

If you intend to carry hazardous material that requires placards on your vehicle, you must also have a hazardous materials endorsement. Section 9 in Volume 2 has the information you need to pass the hazardous materials test.

Safety First!
Jayson Zamora