How should long, not fragile items be loaded to prevent movement?

• A. Load horizontally at the side walls to prevent them from falling.
• B. Stand them upright at the front.
• C. Place them on top of other packages.
• D. Place them in a separate area.

Answer: (A)

Long, nonfragile items should be loaded horizontally along the side walls so they can be restrained against movement using the vehicle’s structure. Placing them against the side walls keeps them from shifting side to side and front to back, makes it easier to apply straps or load bars across their ends, and helps keep the load’s center of gravity low. This setup reduces the risk of tipping or sliding during braking, turning, or sudden stops.

Loading them upright at the front can create leverage that makes tipping more likely if the vehicle moves or decelerates. Placing them on top of other packages is unstable and can cause crushing or movement of the items below. Storing them in a separate area without proper restraint also leaves them free to shift during transport.