Cargo & Delivery Vans
Plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs and delivery drivers spend their days in cargo vans. Vans carry heavy tools and parts close behind the driver, have big blind spots and no rear window, and catch the wind. A van that’s overloaded or badly packed can kill the driver in an ordinary crash.
- Work vehicles
- Trades
- Delivery
Cargo is the biggest hazard
In a 30 mph crash, a 50-pound toolbox hits with the force of a much heavier object. Pipe, ladders, cylinders and parts bins slide forward into the cab. To prevent that:
- Install a bulkhead (partition) between the cab and cargo area.
- Use shelving bolted to the van, designed for vehicle use, with doors or straps that keep items in place.
- Strap heavy items to tie-down points on the floor or walls.
- Keep the heaviest items low and forward, between the axles.
- Secure gas cylinders upright and make sure the van is ventilated. Never carry leaking cylinders.
Weight
Check the payload on the door-jamb sticker. Shelving, tools, parts and a ladder rack can add up to more than the van is rated for, especially on smaller vans. Overloading increases stopping distance and the risk of tire failure and rollover.
Seeing around a van
- No rear window means you depend on mirrors and cameras. Keep them clean and adjusted.
- Walk around before backing, and back into spaces when you arrive so you can pull out forward.
- Watch for children and pedestrians in driveways and parking lots. See Backing & Spotters.
High-roof vans
- Know your height and watch for drive-through canopies, parking garages and low branches.
- Slow down in crosswinds. Tall, empty vans can be pushed across lanes or tip.
- Take curves and ramps slower than in a car.
Inside the van
- Heat: parked vans get dangerously hot. Drivers who load and unload all day need water, breaks and air conditioning. See Heat Illness.
- Carbon monoxide: never run a generator or fuel-burning heater inside a van. See Carbon Monoxide.
- Ergonomics: climbing in and out and reaching to the back of shelves strains backs and knees. Use step plates and organize so heavy items are easy to reach.
Theft and security
Tool theft from vans is common. Lock the van every time, don’t leave tools in sight, and park in well-lit areas. Never chase a thief.
Daily check
- Load secured; shelves latched; nothing loose in the cab
- Payload within the rating
- Tires, lights, mirrors and backup camera OK
- Cylinders secured upright with caps
- Water on board in hot weather
Standards & references
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