Tie-Down Regulations for Agricultural Trucks
As of April 15, 2019, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced its decision to grant a limited five-year exemption from the federal tie-down regulations. This exemption allows for certain alternate methods for securing agricultural commodities transported in wood and plastic boxes, bins and large fiberglass tubs, as well as hay, straw and cotton bales that a grouped together in a larger, singular unit.
FMCSA determined that the utilization of certain alternate securement methods would likely maintain a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety achieved without the exemption. The conclusion was based on the results of a comprehensive test and demonstration program conducted by FMCSA, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Trucking Association (CTA) and the California Farm Bureau Federation (CAFB) over a decade ago.
Between April 15, 2019 and ending April 15, 2024, motor carriers will be allowed to use the alternate methods for the securement of agricultural commodities transported in wood and plastic boxes, bins and large fiberglass tubs, as well as hay, straw and cotton bales that a grouped together in a larger, singular unit. It is because of the published FMCSA exemption that agricultural carriers are no longer required to request permission from CHP to operate by the conditions of the exemption.
Carriers should be familiar with the guidance document provided below from FMCSA to ensure compliance with the regulation. If you have questions regarding this information, please call California Farm Bureau at (916) 446-4647.
FMCSA - "Technical Review of Industry Cargo Securement Practices for Baled Hay and Straw" (PDF)
CHP – Commercial Vehicle Section: Link Here
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