CDL General Knowledge TestTransporting Cargo SafelyMedium
A commercial driver is preparing to transport a load of vehicles (e.g., cars, trucks) on a car carrier. Which of the following is a specific requirement for securing vehicles as cargo?
- AAll vehicle doors must be securely locked and windows rolled up.
- BThe parking brake of each secured vehicle must be set, and the vehicle must be in gear or park.
- CEach vehicle must be secured with at least four tiedowns that prevent movement in any direction.
- DThe fuel tanks of all transported vehicles must be drained to less than one-quarter full.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Each vehicle must be secured with at least four tiedowns that prevent movement in any direction.
FMCSA regulations (393.128) for securing vehicles state that each vehicle must be secured with at least four tiedowns. These tiedowns must be placed so that they prevent the vehicle from moving forward, backward, or sideways, and must be attached to the vehicle frame or axles.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While good practice, this is not a specific federal cargo securement regulation for vehicles.
- B. Incorrect. The parking brake must be set, but the vehicle should generally be in neutral to allow for minor suspension movement without stressing the drivetrain.
- D. This is a requirement for certain types of hazardous materials transport (e.g., fuel in containers), but not a general requirement for vehicles being transported as cargo.
Securing Vehicles as Cargo
Specific federal regulations govern the securement of vehicles (cars, trucks, etc.) transported as cargo on a commercial motor vehicle.
- Minimum of four tiedowns per vehicle.
- Tiedowns prevent movement in all directions.
- Tiedowns must be attached to the vehicle frame or axles.
- Parking brake must be set.
Memory trick: Four points on the frame, no wiggle, no blame!