Commercial Driver Handbook ( PDF ) - California Department of ...

This section is about cargo safety. You must pass
a written test on cargo safety to get a commercial
driver license.
If you load or secure cargo incorrectly, 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 can hurt
or kill you during a quick stop or collision. Your
vehicle can be damaged by an overload. Steering
can be affected by an improperly loaded vehicle
making it more difficult to control.
Whether or not you load and secure the cargo
yourself, you are responsible for:
• Inspecting cargo.
• Recognizing overloads and poorly balanced
weight.
• Ensuring that the cargo is securely tied down
and covered, if applicable.
If you intend to carry hazardous materials or wastes
that require placards or markings on your vehicle,
you will also need a HazMat endorsement.
InSPectIng cARgO
SectIOn 3: tRAnSPORtIng cARgO
This section is for all commercial drivers
As part of your pre-trip inspection, check for
overloads, poorly balanced weight, and cargo that
is not secured correctly.
Inspect the cargo and its securing devices again
within 25 miles after beginning a trip. Make any
adjustments needed. Check the cargo and securing
devices as often as necessary during a trip to keep
the load secure. Inspect again:
• After you have driven for three hours or 150
miles, whichever comes first.
• After every break you take during driving.
Federal, state, and local regulations of weight,
securement, cover, and truck routes vary greatly
from place to place. Know the regulations where
you will be driving.
cARgO WeIght AnD BAlAnce
You are responsible for making sure that the vehicle
is not overloaded. Here are some definitions you
should know:
gross vehicle weight (gVW). The total weight
of a single vehicle including its load.
gross combination weight (gCW). The total
weight of a combination of vehicles including
the load.
gross vehicle weight rating (gVWR). The maximum
weight rating specified by the manufacturer
for a single vehicle including its load.
gross combination weight rating (gCWR). The
total GVWRs for the power unit and any towed
vehicles. (This is not the same as the GVWR
specified by a manufacturer for the towing capacity
of a vehicle.)
Axle weight. The weight on the ground at one or
more sets of axles.
Tire load. The maximum safe weight rating a
tire can carry at a specified pressure. This rating
is stated on the side of each tire.
Suspension systems. Suspension systems have a
manufacturer’s weight capacity rating.
Coupling device capacity. Coupling devices are
rated for the maximum weight they can pull and/
or carry.
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