Entry-Level Driver Training: Handling and Documenting Cargo

This course is designed to address the importance of properly handling cargo, cargo security, cargo securement, and weight distribution principles. In addition, it will cover the basics of cargo documentation including a general overview of the bill of lading and procedures learners should follow when making pickups and deliveries.

Course Overview

Properly handling, securing, and delivering cargo are all tasks the professional driver faces on a daily basis. In addition, all drivers deal with some form of freight documentation. Learners need to know what documents are required and what their responsibility is in handling them when out on the road.

This course is designed to address the importance of properly handling cargo, cargo security, cargo securement, and weight distribution principles. In addition, it will cover the basics of cargo documentation including a general overview of the bill of lading and procedures learners should follow when making pickups and deliveries.

OBJECTIVES

After completing this course, learners will be able to:

  • Recognize cargo securement devices
  • Explain how to evenly distribute cargo
  • Identify how to safely load and unload a vehicle
  • Recall the functions served by, and information included on, a bill of lading
  • Summarize pickup and delivery procedures
  • Practice cargo theft prevention measures

Course Topics

  • The Importance of Proper Cargo Handling
  • Principles & Methods of Cargo Securement
    • Regulatory Requirements
    • Securement Devices
  • Cargo Securement Plan
  • Principles of Weight Distribution
    • Overloading
    • Top-Heavy Loads
    • Weight Balance
  • Safe Loading Responsibilities
    • Loading & Unloading Hazardous Materials
  • Loading/Unloading Tools
    • Forklift
    • Pallet Jacks
    • Two-Wheel Dolly
  • Bill of Lading
    • Shipping Papers for Hazardous Materials
  • Shipping Paper Accessibility
  • Pickup & Delivery Procedures
    • Freight Pickup
    • Freight Delivery
    • Split Shipments
    • Interline Freight
  • Cargo Theft
    • Communicating in Advance
    • Communicating in Advance
    • Trailer Seals
    • On the Road
    • At the Receiver
  • In-Transit Security Tips
    • Communications
    • Resting & Parking
    • Parking Shortages
    • Strangers Asking You to Stop
    • Routes