CargoNew Zealand
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160. Cargo
Cargo is the goods, materials, equipment or other items carried by a vehicle or trailer. Cargo can range from personal luggage and bicycles to commercial goods, machinery or bulk materials.
Cargo must be positioned and secured so that it cannot shift, fall from the vehicle, interfere with the driver's visibility or affect vehicle stability. The total load must also remain within the vehicle's permitted weight and axle-load limits.
Why must cargo be secured?
Unsecured cargo can move during acceleration, braking or cornering and can affect vehicle stability or fall onto the road. Proper securing protects the occupants, other road users and the cargo itself.
Can cargo affect vehicle handling?
Yes. Heavy or poorly distributed cargo can change the vehicle's centre of gravity, braking distance, steering and stability. Loads should therefore be distributed appropriately and kept within the vehicle's permitted limits.
Can cargo extend beyond a vehicle?
In some circumstances it can, but national rules normally limit how far a load may project beyond the front, rear or sides of a vehicle and may require projecting loads to be specially marked.

Traffic rules
New Zealand