Driving safely with a load

Start with the capacity. Read off the permitted load for the actual load centre and the lift height you need — an overload or an offset centre of gravity makes the counterweight lift, and then the truck tips over. If the load is too heavy or too far out, it is not lifted.

Drive the forks fully in under the load, so that the centre of gravity is as close to the mast (and the front axle) as possible. The further the load's centre of gravity is from the front axle, the greater the overturning moment for the same weight. Heavy loads belong low and close in.

Moment = force · arm — a short arm close to the mast is your best friend.

Before driving: tilt the mast slightly back so the load rests against the backrest, and lower the forks to travel height — about 15–30 cm above the floor. A load lifted high raises the centre of gravity and makes the truck unstable. Only lift just before setting down at the location.

Indoors, the speed is normally no more than 10 km/h, and lower in narrow aisles and at pedestrian crossings. The company sets the specific limit according to the conditions. Speed gives you less time to react and increases the dynamic forces when turning and braking.

In a bend, a centrifugal force acts that pushes the combined centre of gravity out towards the narrow rear of the triangle — which is why trucks typically tip over sideways in bends. Reduce your speed before the bend, turn smoothly, and avoid sharp turns with a raised load. Brake evenly so that the load does not slide forward.

On a ramp or slope the load must face uphill: drive up the slope with the load in front and reverse down the slope with the load behind (uphill). That way the load points towards the top of the slope and the risk of tipping is kept down. Never drive down a slope with the load in front and downhill.

Rule of thumb: the heavy end uphill — both going up and going down a slope.

If the load blocks your view in the direction of travel, you must reverse (with the load behind) or use a banksman/signaller. Look in the direction of travel, use mirrors at blind corners, and sound the horn at junctions with poor visibility.

When parking or when you leave the truck: lower the forks fully to the floor, set the mast vertical, apply the parking brake and remove the key. A truck left with a raised load is a danger to everyone around it.