Tags – Keep Van Weight in Check
Any reputable man with a van company has to comply with the law – including any and all weight-related regulations.
It’s not uncommon for commercial vans to get pulled over and have their weight checked. If this happens to you, and you’re over the legal weight limit, the fines can be hefty, especially if you end up in court. Not only that, but you face voiding your insurance and damaging the roads too.
The DVSA (Driver Safety Standards Agency) stops more than 15,000 vans a year, of which 83.9% are overloaded.
With that in mind, here’s how to avoid overloading a van so that you stay within the law.
1. Know How Much You Weigh
Before heading to a removal/disposal job, check the Gross Vehicle Weight (GSV) of your van when it’s empty.
You’ll also want to include the driver’s weight, and that of a 90% full fuel tank, oils, and lubricants.
From there, calculate how much you’re allowed to pack into your van within acceptable guidelines.
2. Even Distribution
Before taking on a job, ask customers for precise details about the load. This will give you a better sense of how to best distribute the load inside of your van when you arrive to take it away.
Then, your van’s load must be evenly distributed, ensuring it’s equally spread over the axles.
To begin, the heavy items go in first and are uniformly distributed across the van floor.
Later, if you’re dropping things off at multiple locations, always re-check the remaining van load to ensure the burden remains evenly balanced.
3. Check and Check Again
As we’ve just said, you should always ask customers for details about their load, including its estimated weights.
However, we believe it’s imperative you double-check everything before setting out. That way, you can be confident you’re not overloaded and that you’re carrying your goods safely.
4. Assess The Risks
Always send the most suitable van for the job in hand.
In addition, assess the load and check you have the right restraints (ropes, bars, chains, straps) in place to secure your goods.
Also, you’ll need to take into account the journey length and ensure all your team members are aware of this information. That way, they can also assess the risk of overloading the van as they go about their work.
To learn more, get in touch with us today.
In the meantime, please check our Vehicle Weighing solution here.