Trunking Driving Tips for HGV Drivers

If you haul heavy loads, you’ve probably heard the term “trunking” tossed around in the yard. It’s not a fancy gadget – it’s the way you load, secure, and balance cargo so your truck stays stable on the road. Good trunking makes a difference in safety, fuel use, and how often you get stopped by the police.

What Is Trunking and Why It Matters

Trunking is simply the practice of arranging the load inside a lorry’s box (or “trunk”) so the weight sits where it should. The goal is to keep the centre of gravity low and centred between the axles. When a load is too far forward, too high, or uneven, the truck can sway, brake poorly, or even tip over in a sharp turn.

In the UK, the law requires you to keep the load within the vehicle’s legal limits and to secure it so it won’t shift. Failing to do so can lead to fines, points, or worse – an accident that could have been avoided.

Practical Tips for Safe Trunking

1. Check the weight rating. Before you even hit the dock, know the maximum gross weight of your vehicle and each axle. Compare that to the load’s weight and plan where to place the heaviest items.

2. Keep heavy stuff low. Put the heaviest pallets or crates on the floor, close to the axle line. This lowers the centre of gravity and reduces sway.

3. Balance left‑to‑right. If you load everything on one side, the truck will pull that way and you’ll fight the steering wheel. Divide the load evenly across the width of the box.

4. Secure with straps or nets. Use high‑tension straps, rope, or cargo nets to fasten the load. Tighten them so nothing can move when you brake or turn sharply.

5. Watch the front and rear overhang. The load shouldn’t stick out more than 1 metre beyond the front or rear of the vehicle unless you have a special permit. Overhang changes the balance and can be illegal.

6. Do a pre‑trip check. Walk around the truck, jiggle the load a bit, and make sure nothing shifts. If you notice movement, re‑strap before you go.

7. Adjust your driving. Even with perfect trunking, heavy loads need smoother inputs. Brake earlier, steer gently, and avoid sudden lane changes. That reduces the chance of cargo shifting.

Following these steps not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also saves fuel. A well‑balanced truck rolls more efficiently, meaning lower running costs for you and your company.

Next time you load a lorry, think of trunking as a quick safety checklist rather than an extra chore. It takes a few minutes, but the payoff – fewer fines, safer trips, and a smoother ride – is worth it.