Backing and Docking Flashcards

What is a 'straight-line backing' maneuver?

Answer: Backing the vehicle in a direct straight path without turning

Straight-line backing means moving the entire vehicle combination in a direct, straight path to the rear without intentional turning of the trailer.

When should wheel chocks be placed during a loading dock operation?

Answer: Before the driver exits the cab during docking

Wheel chocks should be placed as soon as the trailer is positioned at the dock and before the driver leaves the cab to prevent trailer creep.

What is 'trailer creep' and why is it dangerous during docking?

Answer: The gradual forward movement of the trailer away from the dock; dangerous because it can cause a dock worker to fall

Trailer creep is the slow forward movement of the trailer away from the dock, which can create a gap that dock workers may fall into.

What does a dock lock (also called a trailer restraint) do?

Answer: Secures the trailer's rear ICC bar to prevent it from moving away from the dock

A dock lock (trailer restraint) hooks onto the trailer's rear ICC bar and physically prevents the trailer from creeping away from the dock during loading.

How should a driver verify the trailer is properly seated against the dock bumpers before loading begins?

Answer: By visually inspecting that the trailer is flush against the bumpers and confirming dock lock engagement

The driver should visually confirm the trailer is flush with the bumpers and verify that the dock lock or wheel chocks are properly engaged before loading begins.

Which of the following best describes the 'offset backing' maneuver?

Answer: Backing at an angle to place the trailer into a space that is not directly behind the tractor

Offset backing requires the driver to maneuver the trailer into a space that is laterally offset (to the left or right) from the truck's original path.

After completing a docking maneuver and before leaving the cab, what is the correct sequence of actions?

Answer: Apply parking brake, turn off the engine, place wheel chocks, and then exit

The driver must secure the vehicle with the parking brake, shut off the engine, and place wheel chocks before exiting to prevent any unintended movement.