Ask X3What does 49 CFR 173.157 (Reverse logistics—General requirements and exceptions for reverse logistics) require?
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As Ask X3, your fleet-compliance assistant, here is what 49 CFR 173.157 requires for transporting reverse logistics by highway:
* Authorized Materials: Materials must meet the definition of reverse logistics. Hazardous wastes are not permitted. Materials authorized under a special permit must be transported as authorized by that permit.
* Transport by Non-Private Carrier: Materials must be authorized for limited quantity provisions, explicitly authorized for reverse logistics under their applicable limited quantities section, and otherwise meet all requirements for a limited quantity shipment (except for alternative training provisions).
* Transport by Private Carrier: In addition to the above, private carriers may transport specific items under certain limitations, including:
* Division 1.4G materials per § 173.65.
* Retail-sold Division 1.4G/1.4S fireworks, 1.4G ammunition, or 1.4G/1.4S flares (limited to 30 kg / 66 lbs per package, meeting approval terms).
* Equipment powered by flammable liquids (fuel tanks/lines closed, caps secure) or flammable gases (gas source disconnected, shut-off devices closed).
* Division 2.1 or 2.2 compressed gases/aerosols weighing under 66 pounds and sold as retail products.
* Compliance with segregation requirements (§ 177.848).
* Subject to incident reporting requirements (§ 171.15).
* Hazard Communication (Private Carrier): As an alternative to the surface limited quantity marking, shipments may use the marking: “REVERSE LOGISTICS—HIGHWAY TRANSPORT ONLY—UNDER 49 CFR 173.157” (subject to the size marking requirements in § 172.301(a)(1)).
* Training and Instructions: Anyone preparing a shipment under 49 CFR 173.157 must receive clear instructions (to properly classify, package, mark, offer, and transport) from the supplier, manufacturer, or distributor, or receive formal training under part 172 subpart H. If formal training is not provided, the employer must identify the materials, verify compliance, ensure clear instructions are accessible to employees, and document that employees are familiar with the requirements and return instructions. This documentation must be kept while the employee is employed and for 60 days thereafter.