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Vehicle loading and departure check

Prevent mismatch, unstable loads and unsafe dock handovers.

Download editable checklist

01 / prepare

Before you start

  • Confirm vehicle, driver, dock allocation, route and load plan.
  • Use the site method for immobilising the vehicle and controlling dock access.
  • Inspect load platform, packaging and handling equipment from a safe position.

02 / execute

Procedure

  1. 01

    Make dock safe

    Confirm restraint/chock method and agreed driver position; keep pedestrians outside the loading zone.

  2. 02

    Validate load

    Match pallets or packages to manifest, destination, weight and special handling requirements.

  3. 03

    Plan sequence

    Place goods for axle/load distribution and delivery order under the carrier and site loading plan.

  4. 04

    Load and secure

    Use suitable handling equipment; maintain stable stacks and secure the load according to the approved method.

  5. 05

    Reconcile

    Count loaded units, check damage, note seal number if used and resolve any difference before closing doors.

  6. 06

    Release

    Hand over documents, record departure and confirm dock equipment is reset only after people and equipment are clear.

03 / exception control

Stop and escalate when

  • Unstable load, damaged vehicle or uncertain restraint: stop and seek transport/safety advice.
  • Manifest mismatch or missing regulated-goods documents: hold departure.
  • Driver must not move until the authorised release signal.

04 / verify

Ready-to-use checklist

Mark each item Pass, Fail or N/A in the downloaded CSV. Record evidence and assign a corrective action for every failure.

  • Vehicle and dock identity confirmed
  • Vehicle immobilised under site method
  • Pedestrian exclusion maintained
  • Load and manifest matched
  • Weight and load distribution reviewed
  • Load stable and secured
  • Seal/documents reconciled
  • Departure authorised and recorded
Site / shift: ____________________Date: __________Checked by: ____________________Approved by: ____________________

05 / evidence

Keep these records

Vehicle checklist, manifest, load photo where required, seal record and gate release.

Basis and further reading

This is a working template, not a certification or legal opinion. Local law, site risk assessment, manufacturer instructions and approved procedures take priority. For India-specific licences, start with the warehouse licences guide.