Mass force

Mass force is also known as inertial force and is the tendency of a load to resist any change in its state of motion. Mass forces always arise when masses are accelerated. This happens, for example, when a vehicle starts moving. The load wants to maintain its state of motion (rest) and not be set in motion, and may fall backwards out of the vehicle. When the vehicle brakes, the load is in motion and should be slowed down; the forces generated in this process are directed in the direction of travel and attempt to push the load towards the front wall. When cornering (circular motion), centrifugal forces arise that tend to push the load towards the outside of the curve. The relevant standards and guidelines specify how large these forces can be In the direction of travel: 80% of the weight force. To the sides and rear: 50% of the weight force in each direction.

Loads must be secured properly for normal driving conditions. This includes emergency braking, sharp evasive manoeuvres, poor weather conditions and long distances.