Ladder damage from improper transport and storage is responsible for a significant percentage of ladder structural failures that occur during use. A ladder that was dropped on its end, dragged over sharp concrete edges, or stored horizontally across two support points with heavy material stacked on top is compromised — even if it looks fine from the outside. Every transport and storage decision affects the next user's safety.

• Carry extension ladders horizontally, supported at both ends — never trail one end on the ground and drag
• On shoulder carries: announce "LADDER PASSING" before turning corners. The rear end swings wide and will clear out anyone standing nearby
• Secure ladders on vehicles with appropriate tie-downs: minimum two tie-down points per 10 feet of ladder length. Use corner protectors to prevent edge damage at the stake rack
• Ladders transported through doorways or narrow openings: the angle of entry can load the side rails in ways they're not designed for — go slow and straight
• Never drop a ladder from a vehicle tailgate — set it down, end first

• Store extension ladders horizontally with support points every 6 feet — more than 6 feet between supports allows the sections to sag and creates permanent warping in fiberglass
• Storage must be out of the weather — UV and moisture degrade fiberglass ladders and cause corrosion in aluminum
• Do not store near heat sources (salamanders, boilers): heat can warp fiberglass rails and anneal aluminum
• Vertical storage: ladders stored vertically against a wall must be tied to the wall — an unsecured vertical ladder is a falling hazard