Truck Drivers' Responsibility: Understanding the Load They Deliver

Payment or not, the safety and legal compliance of the trucks on the road is a shared responsibility. In this article, we delve into the detailed responsibilities of truck drivers in ensuring the contents of their loads are safe and legal to transport. We will also explore the importance of verifying the shipment's contents and the potential consequences of neglecting these responsibilities.

Verification and Responsibility

Truck drivers are not merely carriers but also guardians of the cargo they transport. This means they need to be fully aware of what they are delivering and must comply with all legal requirements and safety measures. Here are some critical aspects drivers should pay attention to:

Dispatcher Information and Load Bill of Lading (BOL)

When receiving a load confirmation, drivers should carefully review the dispatch information. The BOL should detail the type of goods, the weight, and the number of pieces. Drivers are encouraged to look beyond the basics. For instance, if the goods are hazardous, what placards are required, and what if the shipment is labeled as FAK (Freight of All Kinds)? FAK shipments are often subject to additional scrutiny as the weight of the cargo may vary significantly.

Drivers also need to be vigilant about the loading distribution and if the load is subject to shifting. This is particularly important if the load is not sealed. According to safety regulations, the driver is responsible for ensuring the load is safely and legally moving on public roads. If the load is not properly secured or declared, a driver may face severe financial penalties, even if the load is sealed. In some cases, drivers may be asked to break the seal to inspect the contents, and another seal may need to be provided with a new BOL.

Inspection and Documentation

The dispatch information should include instructions on what to expect and what actions to take upon delivery. These instructions are crucial for avoiding issues, such as rejected loads. For example, if the load is food containers, the driver must follow the instructions provided on the BOL, such as not breaking the seal, and only sliding tandems back into the dock.

Upon arrival at the shipper, drivers need to confirm the nature of the load, count the pieces, and inspect the loading. It's essential to ensure that the load is properly sealed and secured. Drivers should then go to a weighing station to ensure all axles are legally loaded. Skipping these steps can lead to unforeseen problems and legal issues.

Real-World Examples

Transporting different types of commodities can be fascinating but also challenging. Here are a few examples from the trucking industry:

Cream Cheese: In one instance, a truck driver pulled up to a factory that manufactures cream cheese. The factory loaded the trailer with 22 tonnes of cream cheese, which was a considerable amount to transport. This highlights the importance of understanding the load's weight and potential handling challenges.

Straw: Another job involved loading a Bdouble trailer with 30 tonnes of straw. This task was straightforward, as the crew could visibly see the nature of the load and ensure it was properly secured.

Urea and Wheat: While driving a tipper trailer to a fertiliser supplier, the driver was clearly informed that the trailer would be filled with urea, which was accurately delivered. Similarly, during wheat harvesting, the trailers were filled with wheat, ensuring that the contents matched the expectations.

Conclusion

Truck drivers play a vital role in ensuring the safe and legal transportation of goods. By understanding the load they are responsible for, following the instructions on the BOL, and performing necessary inspections, drivers can avoid potential legal and financial issues. This article highlights the importance of thorough verification and compliance with safety regulations to ensure a smooth and incident-free delivery process.