Fri Feb 24 2023 03:59:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) - QikTruck Media
As a South African, you’ve likely heard of the horrors involved with loading and unloading rental vans or trucks for gigs or events. With limited space, transporting and loading cumbersome furniture or equipment can be a tricky and potentially dangerous job. Storing items in a safe and secure way is key to preventing damage to either the hired vehicles and your personal belongings, and so it is important to take the proper precautions when loading and unloading your rental van or truck. Here, we will show you some tips to help make sure that your gig or event goes smoothly.
The first step to safe loading and unloading is pre-planning. Figuring out where your belongings will go, and how best to secure them, is key to preventing mishaps along the way. Create an inventory with descriptions and approximate measurements of the items you need to transport. When deciding how to load the vehicle, ensure that heavier items are placed at the bottom, with lighter items on top. Make use of the rental van or truck interior walls to secure the items with rope. To prevent any unnecessary accidents, make sure that any loose items are secured and organized before you begin the loading process.
To make sure that you don’t damage your belongings or the vehicle, you must use the right packing materials. Investing in protective packaging like bubble wrap, or use smooth surfaces like wood to zone off sections of the cargo area, will ensure that your items stay safe. Flexible straps and cords are also useful materials, and can be easily adjusted to fit any size or shape of item. Securing cords or straps to their full length is also essential, to remove any excess slack that could cause the loaded items to move around in transit.
The most important factor to consider when loading your van is the weight limit, which should be clearly stated before you begin. Overloading the van can lead to stability and mechanical problems, which can be potentially dangerous. Be sure to evenly distribute the cargo weight and don’t leave more than a few inches between the vehicle floor and the items. If you are unsure of what the weight limit for the vehicle is, you should check with the rental company. Overturning the van is another potential hazard and the rental company should provide detailed instructions on how to safely load and unload the van while keeping it upright.
A good way to determine what type of vehicle you need is by understanding the size and weight of the items which will be loaded in the van. Depending on the size and weight of the items, you may need to upgrade to a bigger vehicle. Safety and comfort should always be a priority, so selecting the right van is essential. A reputable rental company like QikTruck™ can provide you with information regarding the right “type” of rental van or truck in South Africa, so you can make an informed decision as to what is best for your needs. Failing to understand the weight limits and what type of van or truck to choose can be dangerous, and lead to liabilities further down the line.
Unloading the van can be just as tricky as loading it, you'll need the same degree of caution and care. Understand exactly how the freight was initially loaded, so that you can unload it accordingly. Remove the items carefully, and in the same shape that was initially packed. If the item is particularly large, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Unload the lighter items first, as they will be easier to manage, and use ropes or straps as you progress through the van. If possible, wait until the van or truck is parked in a level spot or on grassy terrain, before beginning the unloading.
With our on-demand truck and driver hire service, QikTruck™ has revolutionized the industry of goods transportation. QikTruck™ provides you with the rental van or truck, as well as the driver, making sure that the rules are followed and that you stay safe. When it comes to events, deliveries, or helping you to move house, they provide you with the best transportation without any of the physical or mental labor. To help make sure that your planned gig or event runs smoothly, get in touch with QikTruck™ today and let them do the hard work.