Police are investigating the incident, which occurred about 7.30pm on Wednesday.

The driver had not been given chains despite travelling in the four tonne truck on steep and slippery roads up to the mountain.

The vehicle hit black ice and slid out of control before becoming stuck on the edge of a sharp drop.

Bright Sergeant Chris Hepner said the truck had to be pulled to safety.

“The truck did not have snow chains attached and the driver wasn’t carrying any snow chains,” he said.

“He will receive a penalty notice for that.”

Drivers must carry snow chains at Alpine resorts during the snow season. 

Sergeant Hepner said the incident had occurred about 10 kilometres south of Harrietville in steep terrain.

“The truck was hanging there precariously over the edge until it was pulled back,” he said.

“Police will be following up enquiries as to why a supermarket delivery van was on the road without chains.”

Officers have urged drivers to take care on the roads as the temperature drops. 

Senior Constable Owen Clarke said alpine roads were increasingly busy as people headed to the snow. 

“It's appealing for people to go up and check it out,” he said. 

“They should enjoy it, but we just ask that they take their time and get home safely at the end. 

“When you increase the number of motorists on the road, you increase the potential for problems.”

Senior Constable Clarke said the conditions could quickly change near the mountains and said police were increasingly monitoring drivers in such areas.