Things to do before you start a lorry journey

Introduction

Before you set off on a lorry journey, it makes sense to do some advance preparation. This will not only help to minimise your journey time, but may prevent accidents and emergencies caused by poor planning.

This guide explains all aspects of journey planning, such as checking if roadworks are taking place on the planned route, knowing where truck stops are, and weather forecasts. It also covers making sure you are fit to drive, and the checks you need to make to the vehicle and its load before you get behind the wheel.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Use traffic information to plan the best route for your lorry
• Preparing for bad weather when making a lorry journey
• Avoiding bridge strikes when driving a lorry
• Find truckstops along your route
• Know the drivers' hours rules
• Making sure you are fit to drive a lorry
• Ensuring your lorry is safe to drive
• Securing loads carried by your lorry