Secure and Cover Your Load

Image of correct and incorrect securing of a load in a ute  Image of correct and incorrect securing of a load in a box trailer  Image of correct and incorrect securing of a load in a cage trailer
Uncovered loads create litter and hazards to other road users.  Is your load covered properly?
Cover your load with a tarp AND secure tightly with a rope.
Ensure loose materials can't blow out of or fall from your truck/trailer/ute.

What if I don't have ropes or a tarp to cover my ute/trailer/truck?

Then you must not transport your material or goods to a waste management facility, or wherever your destination may be, until you do have them.

Is it okay to use ropes only?

No.  You must use a combination of securing devices such as a rope, ratchet straps or occy/bungee straps and a cover that will not let loose material escape from the transporting vehicle or trailer such as a tarp, large old blanket or fine mesh trailer/ute cover.  Large cargo nets are generally not good enough to cover loads and are not recommended.

If I have sides on the ute/trailer/truck do I still have to cover my load?

If you are transporting any materials or green waste that may blow out or is at risk of falling out if the vehicle over turns, then you must cover your load, even if you have sides.

If I get caught without the correct cover on my load, what is the fine?

Fines start at $750 for individuals, or $1,500 for corporations.

My tarp only covers half of my load.  Is that good enough?

No.  Your tarp or mesh cover needs to conceal ALL of the load so that nothing can blow out or fall out of the trailer or vehicle.

Image of incorrect securing of a load in a box trailer with a cargo net  Image of correct and incorrect securing of a load in a commercial skip truck