Ask X3What does 49 CFR 392.9 (Inspection of cargo, cargo securement devices and systems) require?
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Short answer
49 CFR 392.9 requires that a commercial motor vehicle's cargo be properly distributed and adequately secured, and that the driver inspect the cargo and securement devices at the start of the trip and periodically during transportation. The driver must also ensure that the cargo does not obscure the driver's view or interfere with the driver's movement.
The rule says
"A driver may not operate a commercial motor vehicle and a motor carrier may not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle unless (1) The commercial motor vehicle's cargo is properly distributed and adequately secured as specified in 393.100 through 393.136 of this subchapter." (49 CFR 392.9(a))
"The driver of a truck or truck tractor must (1) Assure himself/herself that the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section have been complied with before he/she drives that commercial motor vehicle" (49 CFR 392.9(b)(1))
The driver of a truck or truck tractor must (2) Inspect the cargo and the devices used to secure the cargo within the first 50 miles after beginning a trip and cause any adjustments to be made to the cargo or load securement devices as necessary — 49 CFR 392.9(b)(2).
In plain English
This rule is about making sure that cargo is properly secured on a commercial motor vehicle to prevent it from shifting or falling during transport. The driver has a key role in ensuring that the cargo is secure, and must inspect the cargo and securement devices at the start of the trip and periodically during transportation. The rule also requires that the cargo be properly distributed and that the driver's view and movement are not obstructed.
What to do
- Ensure that cargo is properly distributed and secured on the vehicle before starting the trip
- Inspect the cargo and securement devices within the first 50 miles of the trip and make any necessary adjustments
- Re-examine the cargo and securement devices periodically during transportation and make any necessary adjustments
- Ensure that the cargo does not obscure the driver's view or interfere with the driver's movement