Load distribution
*
NOTE Risk of damage to the floor cover‐
ing
Excessive point loading on the load compart‐
ment floor or on the load area can negatively
affect the driving characteristics and could
damage the floor covering.
#
Vehicles with rear wheel drive: dis‐
tribute the load uniformly. While doing
so, ensure the overall centre of gravity
of the load is always as low as possible,
centred and between the axles near the
rear axle.
#
Vehicles with front wheel drive: dis‐
tribute the load uniformly. While doing
so, ensure the overall centre of gravity
of the load is always as low as possible,
centred and between the axles near the
front axle.
Excessive point loading on the load compartment
floor or on the load area can negatively affect the
driving characteristics and could damage the
floor covering.
For panel vans and crewbuses:
R
always transport loads in the load compart‐
ment.
R
always place the load against the seat backr‐
ests of the rear bench seat.
R
move large and heavy loads as far towards
the front of the vehicle as possible against
the rear bench seat. Stow loads flush with the
rear bench seat.
R
always additionally secure the load with suita‐
ble load securing aids or lashing material.
R
the load must not protrude above the upper
edge of the seat backrests.
R
transport loads behind seats that are not
occupied.
R
if the rear bench seat is not occupied, insert
the seat belts crosswise into the seat belt
buckle of the opposite seat belt.
Securing loads
Notes on load securing
&
WARNING Risk of accident and injury
due to incorrect use of the lashing straps
If you attach the lashing strap incorrectly
when securing loads, the following may occur
in the event of abrupt changes in direction,
braking manoeuvres or an accident:
R
the tie-down eyes may become detached
or the lashing strap may tear if the per‐
missible load is exceeded.
R
the load cannot be restrained.
This may cause the load to slip, tip over or be
flung about, striking vehicle occupants.
#
Always tension the lashing straps in the
proper manner and only between the
described tie-down eyes.
#
Always use lashing straps designed spe‐
cifically for the loads.
%
Observe the information relating to the maxi‐
mum loading capacity of the individual lash‐
ing points. If you combine various lashing
points to secure a load, you must always take
the maximum loading capacity of the weak‐
est lashing point into account. During a full
brake application, forces may act which can
multiply the weight of the load. Always use
several lashing points to distribute and
spread the load. Spread the load evenly
between the lashing points or tie-down eyes.
Always observe the operating instructions or the
lashing strap manufacturer's instructions for the
operation of the lashing strap.
Information on the maximum loading capacity of
As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring
that:
R
The load is secured against slipping, tipping,
rolling or falling off.
Take usual traffic conditions as well as swerv‐
ing or full brake application and bad roads
into account.
R
The applicable requirements and guidelines
relating to load-securing practices are met.
If this is not the case, this may constitute a
punishable offence, depending on local legis‐
lation and any ensuing consequences.
Observe country-specific laws.
264
Transporting
