LGV Theory Test: Vehicle Loading

There are 71 LGV theory test Vehicle Loading questions. You must get 86% (60 out of 71) to pass the test. You may review answers after each question by clicking the 'check answer' button or you can wait until the end of the test for your final score. Good luck!

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LGV Theory Test: Vehicle Loading Quick View

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A Arrange the load to make it easy for unloading
B Load it towards the front
C Load it towards the rear
D Spread the load evenly
Correct Answer: D Spread the load evenly
Explanation: It's your responsibility to make sure that the vehicle's load is spread evenly, to avoid overloading individual axles. Overloading carries severe penalties for the driver and operator.
A The container must be held up against the headboard
B The container must be sealed
C The container must be secured by ropes
D The container must be secured using the locking levers
Correct Answer: D The container must be secured using the locking levers
Explanation: ISO (International Standards Organization) cargo containers should only be carried on lorries or trailers with the appropriate securing points. These are designed to lock into the container body.
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Keep a check in your mirrors as you're driving to make sure that the sheets are secure. Air can force itself under the sheets and work them loose.
A To make it easier to carry longer loads
B To make it much easier to fold up the sheets
C To stop wind and rain from getting under the sheets
D To stop you tripping when walking on the load
Correct Answer: C To stop wind and rain from getting under the sheets
Explanation: If the load is sheeted incorrectly, the wind may get underneath a sheet, making it flap about. This is dangerous, as it can catch unsuspecting pedestrians or cyclists, and it can also seriously reduce the driver's view of what's happening behind.
A A bowline knot
B A dolly knot
C A reef knot
D A slip knot
Correct Answer: B A dolly knot
Explanation: If a load is being secured with ropes, you must make sure it's tied securely to the body of the unit. The most effective method of tying is with 'dolly knots'. These are non-slip knots that hold firmly.
A Ropes are hard to tie
B Ropes are hard to untie
C Ropes can wear and snap
D Ropes will loosen in rain
Correct Answer: C Ropes can wear and snap
Explanation: When securing a load, the driver must use the most suitable type of restraint. Scrap metal is likely to have sharp edges that could wear through straps or ropes. Security of the load is the driver's responsibility; a load that has been correctly secured shouldn't move if an emergency arises.
A To stop the handling from being affected
B To stop the load from blowing away
C To stop the load from shifting
D To stop the tipper mechanism from accidentally operating
Correct Answer: B To stop the load from blowing away
Explanation: If you're carrying a load that consists of loose materials, it must be covered by suitable sheeting. You mustn't risk losing any part of your load. This could cause damage or injury to other road users, and you would be responsible.
A Attach 'hazard' boards to the load to warn other road users
B Continue at a slower speed to ensure the load doesn't fall off
C Inform base at the earliest opportunity
D Park and resecure the load before continuing
Correct Answer: D Park and resecure the load before continuing
Explanation: If you become aware that any part of your load is insecure, you must stop as soon as it's safe to do so. Resecure the load before continuing your journey. If this isn't possible, then you must seek assistance. Don't take risks.
A Baffle plates
B Harsh braking
C Spray guards
D Wind deflectors
Correct Answer: A Baffle plates
Explanation: Modern tankers are fitted with baffle plates inside the tank compartment. These help to minimise the movement of liquids and, therefore, reduce the 'wave effect'.
A It will make the trailer wheels bounce
B It will make the trailer wheels skid
C It will try to push the vehicle forward
D It will try to push the vehicle to the side
Correct Answer: C It will try to push the vehicle forward
Explanation: When braking a vehicle carrying a liquid load, it's important to apply even pressure on the brake pedal. Don't relax the pedal pressure until the vehicle has stopped. Secure the vehicle with the parking brake before releasing the footbrake; this will minimise the risk of unintentional movement of the vehicle caused by 'surge' from the liquid load.
A Keep pressure on the brake pedal until you've stopped
B Pump the brake pedal rapidly
C Relax pressure on the brake pedal before you've stopped
D Use the footbrake and parking brake together
Correct Answer: A Keep pressure on the brake pedal until you've stopped
Explanation: When braking, always maintain steady pressure on the brake pedal until the vehicle has stopped. This helps to reduce the 'wave effect' that can build up as the liquid load moves when the vehicle changes speed.
Correct Answer: B Glass
Explanation: Fragile loads need extra care in loading and handling. The load must be secured using the most appropriate form of restraint. Air suspension reduces the vibration caused by the impact of the lorry wheels on road surfaces. This also reduces damage to the road, bridges and adjacent structures.
A 2.6 metres [8 feet 5 inches]
B 3.0 metres [9 feet 9 inches]
C 3.3 metres [10 feet 9 inches]
D 3.5 metres [11 feet 5 inches]
Correct Answer: D 3.5 metres [11 feet 5 inches]
Explanation: Wide loads are a hazard to other road users. In addition to having an attendant with you, you must notify the police if your load is wider than 3.5 metres [11 feet 5 inches]. Side markers must also be used to show other road users the limits of your vehicle.
A When it's carrying a high load
B When it's fully loaded
C When it's unloaded
D When its load is carried at the rear of the trailer
Correct Answer: C When it's unloaded
Explanation: When the trailer is loaded, the weight of the load presses the trailer tyres firmly onto the road surface, so improving the tyres' grip. Unladen, there is no load bearing down on the tyres, and under heavy braking the trailer wheels can lock or slide across the road surface, making the trailer more difficult to stop. Severe braking can result in jack-knifing: the trailer doesn't slow as quickly as the tractor unit and this causes it to pivot around the coupling.
A Reverse with the trailer parking brake off
B Reverse with the trailer parking brake on
C Try to move forward with the trailer parking brake off
D Try to move forward with the trailer parking brake on
Correct Answer: D Try to move forward with the trailer parking brake on
Explanation: Make sure the locking mechanism is secure by selecting a low gear and attempting to move forward. Apply the parking brake again before leaving the cab. Connect the 'dog clip' to secure the kingpin release handle.
A The air lines are safely stowed
B The lights are working
C The tilt-cab mechanism is secure
D The trailer brake is applied
Correct Answer: D The trailer brake is applied
Explanation: If the trailer begins moving while you're working on it, you could put yourself and others in great danger. You must make sure that it's properly secured by the brake before you start work.
A Apply the trailer brake
B Drive forward slowly
C Lower the landing gear
D Stow it away safely
Correct Answer: D Stow it away safely
Explanation: It's important to stow away all your electrical cables and air lines safely to avoid causing injury to others. Connectors left lying around can be a trip hazard and can be damaged if they're run over by another vehicle.
A The body is unloaded and empty
B The legs are up
C The rear doors are open
D The surface is firm and level
Correct Answer: D The surface is firm and level
Explanation: If you demount the body on a poor or soft surface, there's a danger of it sinking and becoming difficult to handle. Always think carefully before you demount the body and be sure that the site is suitable.
A To give a clear view of both pairs of rear wheels
B To give a full view of your load
C To give a view down each side of the trailer
D To give a view of the road on the other side
Correct Answer: C To give a view down each side of the trailer
Explanation: The view you get in your mirrors may vary, depending on the size of the trailer and the load it carries. Always adjust your mirrors to ensure that you have the best possible view down each side of the trailer before you drive away.
A A long-wheelbase empty vehicle
B A long-wheelbase laden vehicle
C A short-wheelbase empty vehicle
D A short-wheelbase laden vehicle
Correct Answer: C A short-wheelbase empty vehicle
Explanation: A short-wheelbase empty vehicle will bounce more noticeably than some long-wheelbase vehicles. This can affect braking efficiency and all-round control. Don't be tempted to push this type of vehicle into bends or corners simply because the vehicle appears to be easier to drive.
A Canvas sacks
B Hay bales
C Steel plates
D Timber planks
Correct Answer: C Steel plates
Explanation: The choice of restraint will depend on the load. For example, ropes are unsuitable for loads such as steel plates, as there's a danger of sharp edges shearing the ropes. For steel plates, chains must be used with a suitable tensioning device.
A Heavy material in canvas sacks
B Loose sand
C Timber secured with dolly knots
D Tubular metal
Correct Answer: D Tubular metal
Explanation: When deciding which type of restraint to use, consider what may happen if you have to brake sharply. Tubular loads may move forward with some force if you have to brake sharply in an emergency. This could cause serious damage to the vehicle's headboard.
A Close to the fifth wheel
B Close to the trailer edge
C Over the front axle
D Over the rear axles
Correct Answer: D Over the rear axles
Explanation: To increase stability and reduce the risk of the trailer wheels lifting when turning, it's preferable to locate part-loads over the rear axle(s).
A Laid out flat
B Stacked loosely
C Tied down securely
D Visible from the cab
Correct Answer: C Tied down securely
Explanation: All spare sheets and ropes carried on the vehicle must be tied down securely to prevent them falling onto the road, where they may be a hazard for other vehicles.
A A laden fuel tanker
B A loaded flat-bed trailer
C A loaded high-sided trailer
D An unladen trailer
Correct Answer: D An unladen trailer
Explanation: Jack-knifing occurs when the tractor unit is pushed by the semi-trailer pivoting around the coupling (fifth wheel). This is more likely to occur with an unladen vehicle.
A When empty
B When laden
C When travelling slowly
D When turning
Correct Answer: A When empty
Explanation: Short-wheelbase vehicles will bounce more noticeably than some long-wheelbase vehicles when empty. This can affect braking efficiency and all-round control.
A Driving in wet weather
B Driving on motorways
C Driving over a level crossing
D Driving too fast
Correct Answer: D Driving too fast
Explanation: The main causes of lorries shedding their loads are driver errors, such as sudden changes of speed or direction, driving too fast for the conditions, and harsh braking.
A The brakes will be less effective
B The lorry may overturn when cornering
C The lorry will become unstable under normal braking
D You'll need to change gear more often
Correct Answer: B The lorry may overturn when cornering
Explanation: If you're only carrying half a load on a double-deck lorry, this should be carried on the lower deck whenever possible. With only the top deck loaded, your lorry is top-heavy and at risk of overturning as you drive around bends or corners.
Correct Answer: B In high winds
Explanation: A lorry loaded like this will be top-heavy and more likely to overturn in high winds or when cornering. If you're only carrying half a load, you should try to carry it on the lower deck.
Correct Answer: D Restraining straps
Explanation: You should use a suitable restraint and chock the wheels when another vehicle is being carried piggyback. Don't just rely on the other vehicle's parking brake.
A The load will hold the lorry back
B The load will pull your lorry to the right
C The load will push the lorry straight on
D The load will push the lorry to the left
Correct Answer: C The load will push the lorry straight on
Explanation: The forces acting on a lorry will try to move it in a straight line as it enters a bend. The greater the weight, the greater the force. If you're going too fast, there's a danger that you could lose your load or tip over.
A The endurance brake will come on
B You won't be able to brake
C Your could lose control of your vehicle
D Your vehicle may suddenly accelerate
Correct Answer: C Your could lose control of your vehicle
Explanation: Changing down to an inappropriate gear at too high a speed will cause your vehicle to slow down suddenly. With no separate braking for the trailer, the tractor could be pushed to the point where it turns over.
A Continue loading carefully
B Reposition the load
C Tie two straps together
D Use chains and tensioners
Correct Answer: D Use chains and tensioners
Explanation: If there's any danger that the load you're lifting with a crane is too heavy for ropes or straps, or that sharp edges on the load may damage them, you should use chains with compatible tensioners.
A Make sure the vehicles are sheeted
B Place chocks under the wheels
C Put the heavy vehicles at the top
D Rope the vehicles together
Correct Answer: B Place chocks under the wheels
Explanation: Vehicles being carried piggyback must always have chocks applied to their wheels, in addition to a restraint. Never rely on just their parking brake.
A When it's fully laden
B When it's unladen
C When only the lower deck is loaded
D When only the top deck is loaded
Correct Answer: D When only the top deck is loaded
Explanation: Keeping the centre of gravity as low as possible will improve the handling of a car transporter. Top-heavy loads are more unstable and require more care when turning and cornering.
A Alter the overall height of the vehicle
B Demount the body without a crane or lift
C Load and unload the body without stopping
D Stack one body on top of another
Correct Answer: B Demount the body without a crane or lift
Explanation: Demountable bodies have legs that can be lowered so that the carrier vehicle can be driven out from underneath the body. This has an advantage over ISO containers, which require some form of crane or lift to remove the container from the trailer.
Correct Answer: B Diamond
Explanation: Hazardous substances in transit are readily identified by a diamond-shaped warning label. This label carries other information to identify the type of hazard more specifically, such as
  • flammable gas
  • toxic gas
  • corrosive agents.
These are just some of the types of hazard encountered. Strict regulations apply to the storage and carriage of these goods. All drivers of this type of load must receive specific certificated training.
A To make the steering lighter
B To reduce the wave effect
C To reduce wind resistance
D To stop the brakes from locking
Correct Answer: B To reduce the wave effect
Explanation: Fluids carried in tankers can move in waves as the vehicle's speed or direction changes. This happens particularly when you brake and then ease off the pedal; the moving wave of liquid causes the vehicle to surge forward. Baffle plates are designed to reduce this surging effect.
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Roll-over' usually happens as a result of the inside rear wheels of an articulated vehicle starting to lift when the driver changes direction sharply. This tends to happen when a driver is changing direction to leave a roundabout. If the load moves during the change of direction, the vehicle is increasingly at risk of rolling over. The problem often involves vehicles carrying fluids in bulk.
A Make sure the vehicle is on a firm, level surface
B Make sure the vehicle is on a soft, sloping surface
C Park downhill for easier unloading
D Park facing uphill to make unloading easy
Correct Answer: A Make sure the vehicle is on a firm, level surface
Explanation: Unless you're on firm, level ground, there's a risk of your lorry overturning when the body is tipped. Before raising the body, check that you're well clear of overhead obstructions such as power lines.
A DVLA
B Highways England
C The local authority
D The railway authority
Correct Answer: D The railway authority
Explanation: If your vehicle hits a bridge, you must report it to the police. If a railway bridge is involved, you must also report it to the railway authority. The phone number is usually shown on or near the bridge.
A The maximum load each tyre can take
B The maximum load over each axle
C The maximum load plus the weight of the vehicle
D The maximum load the vehicle can carry
Correct Answer: D The maximum load the vehicle can carry
Explanation: The formula used to calculate the payload of a vehicle is the maximum authorised mass (MAM) minus the tare weight. The tare weight is the total weight of the vehicle, including the crew and extra equipment.
A Hygiene procedures
B Packaging procedures
C Waste-handling procedures
D Weight-distribution procedures
Correct Answer: A Hygiene procedures
Explanation: When transporting frozen food, you need to know how to operate your refrigeration unit correctly. It's also essential that you're aware of correct hygiene procedures when handling food.
A Lower the stabilising legs
B Set out warning cones
C Switch the engine off
D Turn the steering wheels to the left
Correct Answer: A Lower the stabilising legs
Explanation: Before using the crane, it's vital to make sure the vehicle is parked on level ground and the stabilising legs are lowered. This will reduce the risk of the load becoming unstable during lifting. Also check for any overhead cables that may obstruct the crane.
A Heavy items at the front, light items at the rear
B Heavy items near the centre line, light items towards the sides
C Light items at the front, heavy items at the rear
D Light items near the centre line, heavy items towards the sides
Correct Answer: B Heavy items near the centre line, light items towards the sides
Explanation: To achieve maximum stability, the load should be placed to keep the centre of gravity as low as possible. To do this, heavy items should be placed close to the centre line and spread over the full length of the vehicle. Lighter items should be placed along the sides.
A Make sure you can jump down
B Walk backwards near the edges
C Walk forward near the edges
D Work in stockinged feet
Correct Answer: C Walk forward near the edges
Explanation: When working on a flat-bed or open curtain-sided vehicle, you should always be aware of your proximity to the edge of the platform. It's too easy to concentrate on moving and positioning the load, and lose sight of your own position. Stepping backwards could be fatal, so always make sure you're facing the edge as you approach it.
A Bulk grain
B Cement
C Frozen foods
D Timber
Correct Answer: C Frozen foods
Explanation: Some loads need to be transported in special conditions. For example, chilled or frozen foods need to be transported in a refrigeration unit. To drive one of these units, you'll need to be trained in how to use it. You'll also need relevant training in hygiene procedures.
A Membership of the RSPCA
B No driving convictions
C Practical experience in the care of animals
D The ability to drive abroad
Correct Answer: C Practical experience in the care of animals
Explanation: The type of training required by drivers carrying livestock varies according to the distance, journey duration and species involved. For journeys of less than 65 km (40 miles), no formal qualification is required but you must have practical experience in the care of animals being transported.
A Allow no direct access to the animals
B Check them for disease before you load
C Create compartments using moveable panels
D Give the animals plenty of space
Correct Answer: C Create compartments using moveable panels
Explanation: When transporting livestock, it's important to limit the amount of space they have to move around. If you allow them to move around freely, it could increase the risk of injury to the animals. It will also affect the stability of the vehicle when braking and cornering, and could even cause the vehicle to tip over.
A A high-level exhaust stack
B Air conditioning in the driver's cab
C Air suspension on the trailer axles
D Ventilation and temperature-monitoring equipment
Correct Answer: D Ventilation and temperature-monitoring equipment
Explanation: The ventilation and temperature-monitoring equipment must have a system to alert the driver when limits are exceeded. The welfare and condition of the animals you're transporting is very important: they must arrive at their destination in good health.
Correct Answer: B 25 tonnes
Explanation: Overloading a vehicle is dangerous. Your stopping distance will increase, and your vehicle could become unstable and difficult to control. You'll need to work out the payload. Do this by taking away the kerbside weight from the maximum authorised mass (MAM). This will give you the maximum weight you can carry.
A You might exceed your kerbside weight
B You might overload an axle
C You'll always have heavy items remaining
D You'll damage the rest of the load
Correct Answer: B You might overload an axle
Explanation: As items are unloaded from the rear of the vehicle, weight will be transferred to the front axle. Take care that this axle doesn't become overloaded. You may need to redistribute the load.
A Increased fuel efficiency
B Increased kerbside weight
C Reduced braking distance
D Reduced braking efficiency
Correct Answer: D Reduced braking efficiency
Explanation: Too much weight on an axle can reduce braking efficiency and cause brake fade. As well as being dangerous, exceeding the axle weight limit is an offence that can result in prosecution.
A Damage to the road surface
B Damage to the tachograph
C Increased tyre life
D Reduced tyre temperature
Correct Answer: A Damage to the road surface
Explanation: Overloading an axle has an impact on the environment, causing damage to road surfaces. You also risk a fine and driving penalties.
A Covered
B Shrink-wrapped
C Under a waterproof membrane
D While displaying a warning beacon
Correct Answer: A Covered
Explanation: The skip should be covered to prevent any part of the load from blowing away. Loose material blown onto the road could be a danger to other road users and can cause environmental damage.
Correct Answer: C Rope hook
Explanation: Rope hooks aren't designed to withstand high forces. They're usually just welded or bolted to the underside of the platform. Many are so weak that they can easily be distorted by a ratchet buckle when a webbing strap is tightened. Secure anchorage points should be built into the main frame or chassis of the vehicle.
A Oval-link
B Round-link
C Short-link
D Split-link
Correct Answer: D Split-link
Explanation: Split-link and iron chains shouldn't be used to secure loads, as they're less reliable than solid-link and steel chains. For more information on the suitability of various-sized steel chains, consult the relevant British Standard (BS) leaflets.
Correct Answer: A 10 mm
Explanation: When using ropes, the ends should be spliced or otherwise treated to prevent fraying. The rope should be of at least three-strand construction, with a normal diameter of at least 10 mm.
Correct Answer: C Rear
Explanation: When more than one sheet is used to cover and protect a load, the rear sheet should be positioned first. This is so that the overlaps face backwards, rather than forwards, preventing wind and rain from getting between the sheets.
A To keep the contents dry
B To prevent any spillage
C To prevent theft
D To stop children climbing in
Correct Answer: B To prevent any spillage
Explanation: Debris falling from vehicles can be very dangerous to other road users, so skips need to be covered when they're transported. Falling debris may also cause environmental damage.
A Barrels of beer
B Cement
C Perishable foods
D Silage
Correct Answer: C Perishable foods
Explanation: Some foods need to be transported at controlled temperatures. Drivers will need to be trained in the use of refrigeration units and correct hygiene procedures.
A Beer barrels
B Bulk grain
C Chemicals
D Sugar
Correct Answer: C Chemicals
Explanation: Some highly dangerous chemicals have to be transported at prescribed temperatures. Drivers must be fully trained in the use of these specially designed, temperature-controlled vehicles.
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Vehicles carrying dangerous or hazardous goods need to have markings on them that clearly identify the load. This could, for example, help the emergency services to deal with any incident quickly and safely.
A Compressed gases
B Corrosive materials
C Oxidising agents
D Radioactive materials
Correct Answer: C Oxidising agents
Explanation: The symbols on the back or side of a lorry should show the type of material that the vehicle will normally be carrying.
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: If you drive a vehicle carrying dangerous or hazardous material, you must make sure the correct symbol or mark is clearly visible.
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: If any vehicle displaying a warning symbol is involved in an incident, the consequences could be serious. The emergency services need to be aware of how a dangerous or hazardous material will behave in different situations; for example, when it's wet.
A Check the load by carefully entering through the rear door or opposite curtain
B Check the load by carefully opening the curtain in the affected area
C Continue driving at a much reduced speed
D Continue driving, as this is normal for these types of vehicles
Correct Answer: A Check the load by carefully entering through the rear door or opposite curtain
Explanation: You must stop in a safe place as soon as possible. The curtain might be the only support for a slipped load, so don't open it before checking. Check the load by carefully opening the rear door or opposite curtain, if it shows no sign of bulging.
A Improved visibility
B Protection from the weather
C Restraint
D To reduce noise
Correct Answer: B Protection from the weather
Explanation: Unless the curtains are specifically designed, they must not be used to restrain the load. They should be used to protect it from the weather and provide a level of security. Most companies also use them as a mobile advertisement.
A Jockey wheels
B Kingpin locks
C Vehicle stabilisers
D Wheel clamps
Correct Answer: C Vehicle stabilisers
Explanation: When using a lorry-mounted crane, stabilisers should always be used. All drivers should be fully trained and regularly tested on their competence in using stabilisers.
A As high as you can reach
B As low as possible for comfort
C Between the knee and the waist
D Between the shoulder and the waist
Correct Answer: D Between the shoulder and the waist
Explanation: When moving a load, make sure you don't have to bend down or stretch up to reach the handles. Also, try to push rather than pull, so you can see where you're going.
Correct Answer: B 30 tonnes
Explanation: To work out your vehicle's payload, use the following formula: maximum authorised mass (MAM), minus tare weight, equals payload. This is the maximum weight your vehicle can carry.