What are the general cargo securement rules under 49 CFR 393.100?

Short answer

The general cargo securement rules under 49 CFR 393.100 require that cargo be loaded and equipped, and secured, to prevent leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the motor vehicle, and that cargo be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting that could affect vehicle stability or maneuverability. Four things are key: the vehicle must be properly loaded, cargo must be secured, tiedowns must meet strength standards, and drivers must inspect cargo.

The rule says

"Cargo must be firmly immobilized or secured on or within a vehicle by structures of adequate strength, dunnage or dunnage bags, shoring bars, tiedowns or a combination of these." (49 CFR 393.106(b))

"The aggregate working load limit of tiedowns used to secure an article or group of articles against movement must be at least one-half times the weight of the article or group of articles." (49 CFR 393.106(d))

"Each commercial motor vehicle must, when transporting cargo on public roads, be loaded and equipped, and the cargo secured, in accordance with this subpart to prevent the cargo from leaking, spilling, blowing or falling from the motor vehicle." (49 CFR 393.100(b))

"Cargo must be contained, immobilized or secured in accordance with this subpart to prevent shifting upon or within the vehicle to such an extent that the vehicle's stability or maneuverability is adversely affected." (49 CFR 393.100(c))

In plain English

The rules under 49 CFR 393.100 are designed to ensure that cargo is properly secured on commercial motor vehicles to prevent accidents and damage. This means that drivers and carriers must take steps to immobilize or secure cargo, using adequate structures, dunnage, and tiedowns. The rules also require that tiedowns meet certain strength standards, and that drivers inspect cargo regularly to ensure it remains secure. In practice, this means that drivers must be trained on proper cargo securement techniques, and that carriers must have procedures in place to ensure compliance with the regulations.

What to do

• Ensure all cargo is properly secured using adequate structures, dunnage, and tiedowns
• Train drivers on proper cargo securement techniques and the requirements of 49 CFR 393.100
• Regularly inspect cargo to ensure it remains secure during transport
• Develop and implement procedures to ensure compliance with the cargo securement regulations