PURPOSE:

Hauling mulch and soil can be challenging. By following simple precautions, you can ensure your cargo stays secure and prevent accidents.

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Inspect the Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle, whether it's a pickup truck, box truck, or trailer, is in good condition. Check the tires, suspension, and load capacity.

2. Clear the Cargo Area: Make sure the cargo area is empty and clean to accommodate the bags.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Equipment

• Straps: Use ratchet straps or bungee cords to secure the load.

• Tarp: To cover the bags if needed, especially in case of rain.

• Gloves: To protect your hands while handling the bags.

• Pallets or Wooden Boards: Optional, to create a flat surface and prevent damage to the bags.

• Plastic: Optional, to keep a clean truck bed, ask a store associate for free plastic lining.

Step 3: Load the Mulch or Soil Bags

1. Distribute Weight Evenly: Place the heaviest bags at the bottom and distribute the weight evenly across the cargo area.

2. Do Not Overload: Check for payload capabilities. Overloading can lead to decreased maneuverability, longer stopping distances, and an increased risk of accidents, especially during emergency situations.

3. Stack Neatly: Stack the bags in an interlocking pattern to create a stable load. Avoid stacking too high to prevent tipping.

4. Use Pallets or Boards (Optional): Lay down pallets or wooden boards to create a flat surface and protect the bags from punctures.

Step 4: Secure the Load

1. Strap the Load: Use ratchet straps or bungee cords to secure the bags in place. Run the straps over the top and around the sides of the stack.

2. Check for Movement: Ensure the bags are tightly secured and do not move when you push or pull them.

Step 5: Cover the Load (if needed)

1. Use a Tarp: If there is a risk of rain or debris, cover the bags with a tarp to protect them.

2. Secure the Tarp:

Step 6: Drive Safely

1. Check Your Load: Periodically stop to check the security of your load.

2. Drive Cautiously: Avoid sudden stops, sharp turns, and high speeds. Drive slowly, especially over bumps and rough terrain.

UNLOADING/DELIVER
Step 7: Unload the Bags

1. Prepare the Unloading Area: Ensure the unloading area is clear and has enough space to accommodate the doors. Under a roof is preferred.

2. Wear Gloves: Protect your hands by wearing gloves while handling the bags.

3. Lift with Care: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury. Lift with your legs, not your back.

4. Place Neatly: Arrange the bags neatly at the delivery location, ensuring they are stable and accessible to the recipient.

Load/Unload Mulch/Soil - Pickup, Box Truck, or Trailer (Downloadable PDF)