The most common errors lorry drivers and hauliers make — and how to avoid them. Overloaded axle weight insufficient load securing forgotten driver's licence and illegal dimensions are the classic pitfalls.
Introduction
Experience from roadside checks and accidents shows that the same error types recur. Here are the most common — with explanation and advice on how to avoid them.
1. Overloaded axle load
It is possible to be under the permitted total weight and still exceed an axle load, because the cargo is placed too far to the rear or forward. A single axle on a 3-axle vehicle may typically only carry 10,000 kg, but if the whole centre of gravity gathers over that axle, it can easily be overloaded.
- 01Error: load stacked at rear of cargo hold, front axle unloaded and rear axle overloaded.
- 02Solution: use the calculator 'Axle load & load distribution' to check the moment distribution before departure.
- 03Check: axle-weighted scales and bridge scales show per-axle weight
2. Inadequate load securing
Missing or too few lashings are the most common cause of goods sliding during emergency braking or cornering. The faults are typically:
- 01For low µ-assumption: using strap count calculated for dry surface on a sliding steel plate.
- 02Incorrect lashing angle: straps pulled nearly horizontally give very low vertical pre-tension component.
- 03Unapproved straps: straps without EN 12195-2 marking — LC and STF are unknown.
- 04Forgets to re-tension along the way: straps lose tension in the first kilometres.
3. Tachograph faults and forgotten driver card
- 01Forgotten driver's licence: driving without it is punishable — always have the card with you.
- 02Manual activities not registered: ferry time waiting time and rest must be registered correctly.
- 03Old tachograph unit for international transport: analog/digital (non-smart) and smart 1st gen. are no longer legal for international driving (deadlines exceeded in 2024–2025).
4. Dimensional exceeded
- 01Load extending beyond the vehicle's width (> 2.55 m) requires special transport permit and possibly accompanying vehicle.
- 02Height above 4.00 m (for trucks/buses + trailer above 4.10 m in 2026 and above 4.20 m from 1/1/2027) requires a corresponding permit and route check.
- 03Remember: the permit applies to the route — exceeding a bridge or tunnel can have serious consequences.
5. Emergency equipment — what is mandatory?
- 01A fire extinguisher is mandatory in buses (M2 and M3) and in motor caravans for more than 9 people (BEK 1484/2025, § 22). The detailed regulations have no corresponding general requirement for a lorry.
- 02If you carry dangerous goods, ADR's equipment requirements apply — see the article on ADR.
- 03A warning triangle, high-visibility vest, torch and first-aid kit are recommended equipment in a lorry. If you carry them, check during the pre-trip check that they are intact and in place.
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