After loading or unloading, what is one of the essential checks to perform?

Ensuring that securement is tight after loading or unloading is crucial for safe transportation. This check is essential because loose loads can shift during transit, increasing the risk of accidents and compromising the safety of the vehicle and others on the road. A properly secured load minimizes movement, which helps maintain the vehicle's stability and handling.

In addition, verifying that the securement is tight allows the driver to identify any potential issues with the straps, chains, or other securing mechanisms before embarking on their journey. This proactive measure is key to preventing load-related incidents. While factors like weather conditions, licensing checks, and item counts are important in their own right, they do not directly relate to the immediate safety of the load during transit.