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Friday, March 29, 2024

Ag Haulers get a Five-Year Exemption Allowing New Cargo Securement Practices

 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has granted a five-year exemption to the Agricultural & Food Transporters Conference of American Trucking Associations, approving alternative methods to securing agricultural products grouped into large singular units.

According to Transport Topics, the exemption allows agricultural haulers around the nation to use the alternative methods to secure commodities shipped in wood and plastic boxes, bins and large fibreglass tubs, and hay, straw and cotton bales.

Prior to the exemption by the FMCSA, agricultural haulers were required to follow general cargo securement rules.

The alternative methods of securement have been tested and proven both safe and effective by the John Volpe National Transportation Systems Center in cooperation with FMCSA and the California Highway Patrol.

“This conclusion is based on the results of a comprehensive test program conducted by FMCSA in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Food and Agriculture and the California Trucking Association,” the federal agency said.

Executive Director of the Agricultural & Food Transporters Conference, Jon Samson, said, “This has been a long time coming. It’s been so long in coming that some people have forgotten about it.”

The exemption is valid from April 15, 2019, through April 15, 2024.