Common Cargo Loading and Unloading Mistakes
It’s important to put safety first when loading and unloading cargo. This task comes with a risk of injury from falling materials, tripping and falling, or heavy machinery accidents. Ensuring that you and your team are within the safety guidelines will help keep everyone injury-free and more productive. Although human error is inevitable, you can curb accidents by knowing these common cargo loading and unloading mistakes to avoid.
Not Ensuring the Loads Are Secured
The number one way to damage your shipment and possibly injure yourself and your team is by not securing your load properly. Loading is only complete once the cargo is strapped in safely and arranged appropriately for transport. If your shipment isn’t secured, the items inside can shift, making it dangerous for the driver and workers. Make sure that your straps are in good condition and that you have updated shipment-securing mechanisms.
You should use security mechanisms like cargo load bars or additional straps to ensure that your items are in place. Adding an extra layer of security to your shipment will reinforce the items and make your job easier.
Estimating Weights and Dimensions Incorrectly
Another common cargo loading and unloading mistake is incorrectly estimating the weight and dimensions of your shipment. Accurate estimates are vital to ensure enough space on the transport for the items. The weight and dimensions also determine the price of the customer’s shipment. Above all, having incorrect measurements can lead to delays and other issues. To avoid this, double-check your measurements!
Not Following a Maintenance Routine
One of the most critical loading and unloading mistakes you can make is not having a regular maintenance routine. Obstructions and rusty, faulty, or corroded parts can cause slips, trips, and injuries. Not inspecting your truck at least twice a month can negatively impact your team’s safety when loading or unloading. Regularly check your equipment to ensure there are no malfunctions or exposed wiring.
Having Poor Time Management Skills
Not having proper time management skills can lead to delays, cancellations, turnarounds, and unhappy partnerships. You must know when to be at the dock to ensure you reach your customer’s destination on time. With the help of your logistics team, you can know the proper transit and turnaround time to have happy customers and long-lasting partnerships.
