Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned courier or haulier, securing your load properly is essential. Unsecured loads can damage goods, cause serious road accidents, and lead to fines or even prosecution.
Here’s a quick overview of best practice – but we strongly recommend completing the appropriate training before taking on any loads via the Exchange.
Load the vehicle properly
- Stack the load against the headboard with the centre of gravity as low as possible. It should be stable even without lashings to reduce the risk of the load falling over during unloading.
- If the load isn’t stable on its own, use a box, stillage or transport frame to support it.
- If the load doesn’t sit flush against the headboard—or could slide over it—use extra lashings, sails, chocks or blocking to stop it moving forward.
- The headboard is a key part of your securing system. If it’s damaged, fix it before loading.
Choose a suitable securing method
- Not all loads or vehicles are the same. Choose a method that keeps the load secure without introducing new risks (like unnecessary manual handling or working at height).
- Webbing straps and chains are common, but not always suitable—fragile or live loads may need alternative solutions.
Use adequate load restraint
- Many incidents happen because the amount of restraint needed is underestimated.
- Keep in mind: the force acting on a load while the vehicle is moving (like braking, turning or accelerating) is much stronger than when it’s standing still.
Safety is a shared responsibility
- It’s not just your responsibility to keep the vehicle and its load secure—everyone in the transport chain plays a part. From planners to operators, each person involved should be familiar with the rules set out in the DVSA's Code of practice.
Stay up to date with industry changes
- Keep up to date with changes in legislation and best practice. The DVSA’s Moving On blog is a great resource. You can also sign up to get email alerts when new posts are published.
- Trade associations also provide regular updates and guidance.
Health and safety
Whether you're an owner-driver or employed by a transport company, you have a duty to protect yourself and others.
Employers have legal responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 to ensure the wellbeing of:
- Their employees
- Anyone affected by their work activities
Manage risks
- Risk assessments are a legal requirement for anyone transporting goods—whether you're self-employed or part of a team.
- They help you spot potential issues and take practical steps to prevent accidents or damage.
Remember to:
- Always check your load before setting off. Even well-secured loads can shift during transit.
- Never continue a journey if your load isn’t safe. You should never be left stranded with an unsafe vehicle.
For more information and government guidance: Securing loads on HGVs and goods vehicles.