Loading up a ute and want to make sure everything’s secure, safe and legal? You’re in the right place!

What is a “light vehicle”?

First things first – are you driving a light vehicle? This includes cars, utes, vans, trucks or trailers with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of up to 4.5 tonnes. If that sounds like you, read on because this blog is going to be your go-to guide for mastering load restraint for your vehicle.

Why are loading requirements important? 

Safety on the road is always priority. A load that isn’t secured correctly can shift during travel, making your vehicle unstable and increases the risk of accidents. Ensuring your load is secure protects not only you but everyone else on the road.

 

How do I achieve safe loading?  

Safe loading isn’t rocket-science, but it does require attention to detail. Always secure your load properly, spread the load weight evenly and comply with legal standards.*

Load restraint rules 

Here are the key rules to keep your load secure and safe for the road:

  • Your load must stay secure during everyday driving—including braking, turning and acceleration
  • Ensure your load doesn’t make driving unsafe or obstruct others
  • Avoid protrusions that could harm people or property
  • If anything falls off your vehicle, remember you’re responsible for retrieving it

Your load restraint should handle forces in all directions, even during emergency stops. Keep the 80/50/20 rule in mind:

  • 80% of the load’s weight pushing forward
  • 50% of the load’s weight to the sides and back
  • 20% of the load’s weight upwards (if the load isn’t fully contained)

Load restraint methods 

There are two main ways to secure a load.  

  • Tie-down restraint: Use straps or ropes to hold down the load 
  • Direct restraint: Contain the load, block it with solid barriers (like a heavy-duty headboard) or attach it physically to the vehicle 

 

Steps for restraining a load 

  • Understand your load: Consider size, shape, weight, stability and fragility
  • Choose the right restraint method: Match your approach to the type of load
  • Check throughout your trip: Adjust restraints as needed
  • Distribute weight evenly: Avoid overloading any part of your vehicle
  • Use quality equipment: Don’t skimp on restraints 
  • Inspect restraints regularly: Replace worn-out gear promptly
  • Upgrade if necessary: Consider a heavy-duty Norweld ute tray or canopy for better load management

Load restraint equipment 

Using the right load restraint equipment and materials is important, so to is the condition of them. Using the wrong equipment or damaged gear can result in your load falling off, causing accidents, property damage or  injury. 

Common load restraint equipment can include:  

  • Lashings: Straps or ropes that secure your load. The tighter, the better. 
  • Webbing Straps: Ideal for various loads, with fittings and tensioners. Check for stretching. 
  • Synthetic Ropes: Good for lighter loads. Make sure you use proper knots. 
  • Chains: Best for heavy or unstable loads. 
  • Cargo Nets: Great for covering open areas, especially on utes or trailers. 
  • Tarps: Protect your load from the elements but won’t secure it. 

For extra security, Norweld’s Elite Tray features tie-down points to help secure your load, while the Deluxe and Deluxe Plus Trays come with rope rails, making it even easier to restrain gear.

Ready to upgrade?

Norweld’s heavy-duty aluminium ute trays are built tough for both work and adventure, offering features like dust and water-resistant toolboxes, integrated mounts, tie-down points, rope rails and loads of extra storage solutions. With a robust design and practical features like lockable canopies and toolboxes, you’ll have everything you need for peace of mind on any drive.

* Please note below is a general guide, based off the information inside the National Transport Commission’s (NTC) Load Restraint Guild for Light Vehicles.