Should you carry the load?
When deciding whether to carry a load, ask yourself these questions:
Will the load create a hazard for other road users?
An object projecting from the front, rear or side of your vehicle can distract others, collide with vehicles or injure pedestrians. Make sure you are within legal limits, even for short trips (eg: from our warehouse to your home)
Will the load create a hazard for you?
Very heavy or high loads may affect your ability to steer and brake safely. A badly placed load may interfere with your view of the road. All increase the risk of an accident.
Will the load endanger your passengers?
Carrying a load projecting from the interior of a passenger vehicle can be dangerous. Passengers should not be responsible for keeping a load in place. You must be confident that the load is stable and will not harm passengers when you stop, accelerate or turn.
Will the load endanger your vehicle?
Overloading or incorrectly loading your vehicle puts extra stress on the engine, suspension and brakes. Remember, passenger vehicles are generally not designed to carry large or heavy loads. Badly packed loads can also damage interior fittings or exterior paintwork.
Will the load be safe?
It's easy to damage valuable purchases by loading them badly - even on a short trip from store to home. Professional transporters have the correct materials to secure and protect your goods.
If in doubt, don't carry the load. Consider hiring a vehicle specifically designed to move loads, or paying for a professional delivery. It could be much cheaper than the consequences of a crash, injury, vehicle repairs or load damage.
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