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In structural design, loads are split into permanent ones and those that can change over time. The term for any load that is not part of the structure’s own weight (not a dead load) is live load. This includes loads that come from occupancy and use, such as people moving around, furniture being moved, equipment in spaces, and vehicles on a bridge. These loads are variable and can be present or absent depending on use, so the design must account for their range and location.

Axial load refers to a force along the length of a member, which is an internal force concept rather than a category of external loads. Impact load is a specific dynamic load caused by a sudden force, which is a subset of live/dynamic loads rather than the general category. Dead load is the permanent, self-weight of the structure.