All trucks have a payload capacity, which is the amount of cargo you can put on board without affecting the vehicle’s integrity or performance. Payload accounts for everything from shopping bags to heavy equipment, and going beyond the recommended capacity can have structural consequences for the vehicle. In general, heavy loads should be left to a trucking company. Here are a few reasons to avoid overloading your personal truck.

Why You Shouldn’t Overload Your Personal Truck

1. Affects Driving Ability

When the cargo isn’t evenly loaded, the excess weight puts a strain on one side. Poor weight distribution can cause you to experience difficulty when turning or changing lanes—uneven loads can even cause the truck to topple.

If it’s raining, unbalanced cargo can make it challenging to retain control of the truck if it spins out. Trucking companies, by contrast, have larger vehicles at their disposal and use chains to ties to secure heavy cargo, making them less likely to experience issues during the commute.

2. Produces Unnecessary Expenses

Once your truck exceeds it’s carrying limit, excess strain is applied to the tires, engine, and drivetrain, which work together to ensure a smooth ride. If you haul heavy loads, your vehicle may be vulnerable to frequent maintenance or damage. If you need to transport a load that exceeds your truck’s abilities, hire a hauling service or trucking company that uses vehicles designed to move heavy freight and cargo safely.

3. Creates Safety Risks

If the back space is piled high with objects and boxes, you may have difficulty seeing through the rear view mirror. A limited field of view can make you less aware of what’s happening around your moving vehicle, increasing the odds of an accident. You may also need to brake suddenly to accommodate your lack of view—this may cause the cargo behind you to fly forward, potentially injuring you or a passenger.

If you need a durable vehicle to transport your heavy load, contact the team at Rojac Trucking in Wailuku, HI. Whether you’re transporting gravel or machinery, this trucking company provides a wide range of hauling services to meet your needs. Call (808) 986-1100 to ask about their available trucks.