Did you know that over 2,000 prohibitions to vehicles were issued by the DVSA in 2013 because of how their load was secured? In addition to 22,000 road impact incidents being caused by objects falling in the same year, load securing requirements have been tightened.
Although the fundamental principles have not changed, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has made important additions to its guidance notes.
Guide to Safe Loading of Pallets
Correct Packaging & Stacking
Shrink wrap or banding must be used to securely attach palletised goods to the pallet. The goods must be stable on the pallet before they are loaded onto the vehicle or trailer and secured for transport.
A load that is fundamentally unstable can never be secured correctly. Where pallets are stacked, the stack must be stable without lashings.
Means of Securing Pallets
For individual pallets or stacks that weigh less than 400kg, buckle straps or internal nets hanging from roof rails inside a curtain-sided trailer can be used to secure them. Alternative means must be used for pallets or stacks that weigh more than 400kg.
Also, the gap between the front of the load and the headboard must be no more than 30cm.
Upper Deck of Curtain-sided Trailers
Pallets should constitute light freight in-line with guidance, be single-stacked and internal straps are properly engaged. The new guidance suggests using an additional internal curtain-and-strap-arrangement rather than using straps on their own. This will contain the pallets more effectively, improving safety and security both on the road and unloading.
Pallets that weigh more than 400kg should not be loaded on the upper deck of a curtain-sided double-deck trailer, they should be on the main deck or swan neck.
BS EN 12642 XL Standard Trailers
These trailers allow goods to be carried without additional lashings depending on certain conditions being met. In addition to the gap between the front of the load and the headboard being no more than 30cm, the gap between the load and the rear doors must also not be more than 30cm.
Plus, the gap between the load and the curtain side must be no more than 8cm on either side.
The Future of Pallet Securing Safety
These requirements are vital to avoid further incidents with unsecure palletised goods. At Cross Country Carriers, we recognise this importance of these changes and requirements and will always do our upmost to make sure our drivers and shipments stay safe on the roads.
Contact to find out more about our team and what we can do for you today.
