An overload is a cargo shipment that pushes a truck, trailer, or axle group beyond its maximum allowable weight limit. Driving with an overload strains the suspension, damages road surfaces, and increases braking distances. Enforcement agencies issue heavy fines for these violations at weigh stations.
Heard on the job
The weighmaster caught an overload on the tandem axles, so we've to shift the pallets forward before they let the truck leave.
Do not mix it up with
- Overweight: Overload refers to the physical cargo causing the issue, while overweight is the legal status of the vehicle.