CDL General Knowledge Test
Cargo: practice questions
Our CDL General Knowledge bank has 13 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
What should be done to secure cargo such as pipes on a flatbed?
- Leave it loose
- Stack it as high as possible so it takes up less room on the deck
- Use blocking, bracing and enough tiedowns so it can't move
- Use one rope
Show the answer
C. Use blocking, bracing and enough tiedowns so it can't move — Cargo must not shift forward, backward or sideways.
Question 2
Why must a high center of gravity be avoided when loading?
- It improves fuel economy
- It is required for flatbeds so the load is easy to unload
- It makes the vehicle more likely to roll over
- It improves braking
Show the answer
C. It makes the vehicle more likely to roll over — Load the heaviest cargo low and spread it evenly.
Question 3
How should cargo weight be distributed in a trailer?
- Evenly, keeping the center of gravity low
- On one side
- Mostly at the back, so the drive axle has traction
- All on top
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A. Evenly, keeping the center of gravity low — Poor weight balance makes steering and braking difficult.
Question 4
Which cargo requires special care because of a high center of gravity and shifting?
- Bricks on pallets
- Hanging meat
- Steel coils lying flat
- Sand
Show the answer
B. Hanging meat — Hanging meat can swing and make the vehicle unstable.
Question 5
Who is responsible for checking that cargo is properly loaded and secured?
- Only the shipper
- No one
- The driver
- Only the receiver
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C. The driver — Even if you didn't load it, you are responsible for inspecting it.