In load planning, what does "overage" refer to?

Overage in load planning specifically refers to the presence of excess cargo beyond what was originally planned or anticipated. This can occur for various reasons, such as inaccurate forecasting of cargo requirements or last-minute changes in customer needs. Understanding overage is crucial for effective load planning as it impacts overall logistics and operational efficiency.

When cargo exceeds the planned limits, it raises concerns regarding space allocation, weight management, and potential compliance with regulations. Therefore, it is essential for load planners to monitor and manage overage situations to avoid disruptions or inefficiencies in the transportation process. Recognizing and addressing overage helps ensure that shipments are executed smoothly and align with both operational capabilities and safety standards.

The other options address different aspects that do not directly relate to the concept of overage. A shortage pertains to having less cargo than needed, which is the opposite of overage. The type of cargo does not define the condition of overage but rather categorizes what is being shipped. Weather conditions, while impactful to logistics, do not pertain to the concept of cargo limits in terms of overage.