> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://baobab-interactive.gitbook.io/baobab-interactive-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://baobab-interactive.gitbook.io/baobab-interactive-docs/hotshot-trucking-simulator/cargo-handling.md).

# Cargo Handling

## Physical crate pickup

Building Materials and Crated Equipment use physical forklift loading. The other current freight types load automatically when pickup preparation succeeds.

Use the assigned forklift inside its work area. `E` selects a crate; mast movement uses the game's vehicle controls.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Approach the crate

Approach through the skid's open fork channels.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Lift and position

Lift steadily and position the crate upright inside its green deck circle.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Set down and clear the forks

Lower it, then back out until the forks are fully clear.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Placement uses the measured trailer deck, a settled crate, and server validation. The forklift may continue reversing during confirmation; the crate itself must be stable and clear of the forks.

On the current 20-foot layout there are three crates and three strap points. The 30/40-foot crate layouts carry four. Follow the contract's actual quantity and markers.

## If a crate will not snap into place

* Check that you selected the correct piece and are using its green slot.
* Keep the crate upright and centered, with no forks underneath.
* Allow it to settle instead of pushing or bouncing it.
* Wait for the green slot if deck collision has not become available.
* Remain in the assigned forklift and within the work area.

The physical placement radius is currently 1 metre; the cargo speed threshold is 0.35 m/s. Fork-clear checks include distance from the forklift origin, so move the whole forklift back rather than only lowering the mast.

{% hint style="info" %}
These are configuration tolerances, not permission to bypass the visible placement instructions.
{% endhint %}

## Recover a tipped or loose crate

When the recovery prompt appears, withdraw the forks, stop, and hold `R`. The current hold duration is two seconds, with a 15-second cooldown.

Clear the recovery position and move the forklift away from the selected crate first. Recovery returns an eligible loose piece to its staging/recovery position. It does not create extra cargo or award loading/delivery credit.

After the final pickup piece, park the empty forklift in the yellow circle and exit. The phase completes automatically once return conditions pass.

## Tie-downs and tension

Hold `E` at each securement marker. Releasing the key, moving away, entering a vehicle, or changing job state can cancel the action.

Hard braking, sharp cornering, and impacts can reduce strap tension. Watch the HUD and warnings, pull over safely, and retighten loose points. Visual strap slack reflects tension; the Load Control perk reduces tension loss.

The current base strap/unstrap duration is six seconds. Retightening has a separate three-second base duration. Perks can shorten actions.

## Delivery

With the current `requireUnloading = false` setting, stop in the destination marker to check in, exit, and remove the current stop's marked straps.

Cargo disappears after the last required strap, the receipt updates, and the next stop or final report opens. Cargo assigned to later stops stays aboard.

Disabling `requireStrapRemoval` skips delivery strap work after validated check-in. Pickup securement has its own setting.

## Optional legacy unloading

Setting `Config.CargoOperations.requireUnloading = true` restores manual unloading, including forklift work for self-loaded crate cargo. Follow the resulting unloading/receiving prompts; the automatic-delivery instructions above no longer describe that configured flow.

Test changed handling settings with a fresh job and another player observing before opening the server.