The method includes loading and/or unloading the car, determining whether the car doors are fully closed or not fully open, measuring a total actual axial mass FΣact hanging from the traction sheave, determining a stalling limit total minimum axial mass FΣmin, checking reopening of the car doors, whereby if the car doors are reopened, then return to beginning, else, continue, permitting starting of elevator, comparing the total actual axial mass with the stalling limit total minimum axial mass, whereby if the total actual axial mass is equal to or greater than the stalling limit total minimum axial mass, then permit normal run of the elevator car to the next landing, else, stop the elevator.