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OOSC, Part II, Item 2. Cargo Securement, n. Heavy Vehicles, Equipment and Machinery - Flatbed Trailers

Entry DateAugust 20, 2023
Issue Number23-039-VEH
NameJason Ward
AgencyIndiana State Police
Address7811 MIlhouse Road Suite SIndianapolis, In, 46241United StatesMap It (opens in a new tab)
Phone317-615-7373
Email[email protected]
CommitteeVehicle Committee
StatusOpen
Summary of Issue

Newer manufactured trailers, both 48 and 53 foot in length, are now coming in empty weights of under 10,000lbs When securing a trailer to a flatbed trailer, per 393.130 it would require a minimum of 4 tiedowns to properly secure. However, if the item is below 10,000lbs according to 393.130, it can be secured under 393.128 or 393.100-393.114. If securing under 393.128, it would only require 2 straps on a 48 foot trailer for proper securement if under 10,000lbs.

Justification or Need

If the trailer was secured under length and width it would required 6 straps if 48 foot and no headerboard. 7 for 53 feet. The trailer if over 10,000lbs can be secured with 4 tiedowns, but if under it can be secured with just 2 per 393.128? Two would be enough to cover the weight, but it doesn't make logical sense to have 48 feet and only 2 straps on an item of a trailers size. Trailers are defined as a motor vehicle in 390.5 which fits into the wording of 393.130 as it is a heavy vehicle under Ops Policy 15 Cargo Securement (b)(10).

Request for Action

Request guidance on what securement is required for a trailer under 10,000lbs that is transported on a flatbed trailer? 393.130 allows for vehicles under 10,000lbs to be secured by either 393.130, 393.128, or 393.100-393.114. One is 4 tiedowns, one is 2, the other could be 6 or 7 depending on trailer length. What is correct securement minimum requirements?