Which is the first step in securing a load?

The first step in securing a load is to properly position the load within the vehicle. This step is crucial because the placement of the load significantly affects how it can be secured and how it will behave during transport. Proper positioning allows for an even weight distribution across the vehicle, which is essential for maintaining stability and ensuring that the vehicle handles correctly on the road.

If the load is not placed correctly, it may shift during transit, leading to unsafe driving conditions and potential accidents. After the load is positioned, other steps such as checking the securement equipment, calculating the load's weight, and finally securing the load with straps can be effectively carried out. Therefore, the foundational step is ensuring the load is correctly positioned to facilitate all subsequent actions involved in safe load securement.