How To Improve Your Van Cargo Management And Logistics
Optimising your van loading when driving a commercial vehicle is just as important as selecting the right model from the start.
Indeed, there are several good reasons for learning the best ways to load your van, secure your cargo and ensure you aren’t flouting any laws.
Failing to do so could result in your precious cargo becoming damaged, not to mention the irritation of it rattling around in the back of your van. Moreover, overloading your van could leave you susceptible to penalties from law enforcement if you’re caught out.
And since we recommend removing any valuable items from your van overnight so as not to attract potential thieves, an organised load bay will make such a task much easier.
These are Vansdirect’s top tips on how to load your van securely and improve cargo logistics.
1. Tips for Improving Van Cargo Management and Logistics
Van Partition Solutions
Van partitions can be highly beneficial in splitting the cargo space into its separate space, such as racking. This helps improve both safety and security in your van. By splitting the cargo area from the cabin, this also reduces noise. You can enjoy the drive without having to listen to a banging metal sound. Plus, it also makes heating the cabin more energy efficient, as the heat won’t escape to the cargo area.
Distribute your Van Load Evenly
To make sure your van doesn’t feel lopsided, arrange the cargo evenly across the area. It’s also a good idea to place any smaller items inside larger items to limit movement. Make sure to check you haven’t stacked the load too high to avoid boxes falling off if you stop suddenly.
Secure the Van Cargo Properly
To protect fragile items, make sure to use anchoring points within your van. Lashing or tensioning straps are also useful to secure everything in place. It’s good to ensure no items are piled against the doors too.
Avoid Load Hanging off your Van
It’s dangerous to have anything hanging out the back of your van. If not secured properly, the load can fall off and risk causing an accident.
However, sometimes, on short distances, this cannot be helped. In this case, you must secure the load carefully and attach high-visibility materials to the end. It’s then easier for other motorists to see.
Drive Slower
If you have a van full of cargo, we recommend controlling your van speed. With heavy items inside, driving a van is different from your average car. You should accelerate and brake carefully, as well as make sure there’s a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles.
Van Unloading
To avoid getting hurt or damaging the goods in your van, always wear gloves. You should also check that the unloading area is free from traffic. It’s best to choose a flat surface or place brake chocks under the wheels – this is to make sure the van is balanced
2. Rules and Regulations for Van Cargo Management
If you drive a van in the UK, you must be aware of the latest cargo management rules.
When it comes to the design gross weight, sometimes called ‘gross vehicle weight’, you must not exceed it. If you are found to have exceeded the maximum permitted axle weight, you will receive a £300 fine or get a court summons.
The weight limit includes: the Van itself, the driver and any passengers, the fuel and the payload
It’s the responsibility of the van driver to ensure all cargo is loaded and secured safely.
You should use appropriate restraints to secure the load, including straps or netting. It’s also recommended to load the heaviest items at the bottom.
If you want to learn how to load your van legally, watch the video provided by the UK government.
3. Best Vans for Cargo Management
At Vansdirect, we stock a vast range of new vans ideal for cargo management. These include the Ford Transit Custom, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit Connect, Nissan Townstar, and more.
These vans provide a practical cargo space, ideal for transporting goods. They also feature the latest safety features, giving you a hand when you need it most. Many of the models are also fully electric vans, producing zero tailpipe emissions.
Van Cargo Management FAQs
What is the best way to load a cargo van?
You should load the larger and heavier items first, and evenly. You should also place the first items at the back of the cargo space. If you have items that are top-heavy, you should place them lower down. It’s also good to check all your fragile items are appropriately secured.
How do I stop things from moving in the back of my van?
You can use lashing straps, nets, and other tools to secure your items. You should try to minimise the risk of your load moving around.
How do I organise my maintenance van?
The larger items should be placed at the bottom of the van. If you have a lot of items, it might be a good idea to label them to make locating specific items easier. You can also group tools depending how you use them for faster gathering.
How to secure items in a cargo van?
We recommend using ratchet straps, cargo bars and chains. By securing the load appropriately, you can minimise movement in the space.
Where is the best place for weight in a van?
If you have large, bulky items, you should place these at the bottom of the load. Pack the heavier boxes against the walls and lighter items in the middle if possible. This way, you can optimise the weight distribution.
Best Large Van Leasing Deals With Vansdirect
Buying or leasing a new large van with Vansdirect has never been easier or better value.
Get the right van at the right deal, right now with the best van leasing deals available across a wide range of models, including the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the Iveco Daily
Speak to our expert team today and you could be driving a large van for less than you think, sooner than you thought.
