172.514(b) Citation: Bulk Package Placarding | Q&A

No, 172.514(b) is not an out-of-service violation. However, our inspection records show that even though this code is not OOS-eligible, 48.7% of all citations for this violation resulted in the vehicle being placed out of service anyway—likely due to accompanying violations found during the same inspection. That's significantly higher than the all-FMCSR average OOS rate of 31.4%, meaning inspectors often uncover related hazmat handling issues on the same stop.

It's relatively uncommon but sits in a serious category. Across our database, 172.514(b) ranks #1701 of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume with only 39 all-time citations. Compare that to peer hazmat violations: general loading/unloading violations (177.834A and 177.834(a)) have 3,954 and 3,839 citations respectively, while placard deterioration (172.516(c)(6)) has 1,796 citations. When 172.514(b) does appear, it signals a specific compliance gap—bulk packages with hazmat residue being handled outside placarding rules.

1. Document the violation. Note the exact package, residue type, and placarding condition at the time of inspection.
2. Inspect all bulk packages on your truck. Verify placarding is present, legible, and covers all required sides and ends.
3. Review your loading procedures. Residue violations often stem from improper cleaning or packaging before transport.
4. Check for co-violations. The high OOS rate (48.7%) suggests related hazmat issues are cited together—review the full inspection report.
5. Report to your carrier. Flag this for your safety manager and hazmat coordinator.

Very rare. Our 13 million+ inspection records show only 39 citations for 172.514(b) all-time, zero in the last 12 months, and zero in the last 90 days. This code appears so infrequently that it represents less than 0.01% of all hazmat-related enforcement. When it does occur, it's typically in highly specialized bulk transport operations—seven carriers account for 14 of the 39 citations, with no carrier appearing more than twice.

Yes. If you believe the citation is inaccurate, you can submit a DataQs (Safety Management System Data Quality) challenge through FMCSA within 90 days of the roadside inspection. Documentation-based violations like improper placarding are contestable if you can show the placard was present and compliant at the time of the inspection. Gather photos, loading documentation, and maintenance records. The burden is on you to prove the finding incorrect, so documentation is critical.

No single carrier dominates. Our data shows the citations are distributed: Enrique Vega Cobos, Doyle Farms Inc, World Fuel Services Inc, Herc Rentals Inc, Toro Oil Haulers LLC, Francisco Partida Zepeda, and Bosque Disposal Systems LLC each have 2 citations all-time. This pattern suggests 172.514(b) is tied to specific bulk-transport operations and specialized handling rather than endemic to any one carrier type. The violation typically appears in fuel, mud, and liquid-waste transport fleets.

Immediate. Although 172.514(b) itself is not OOS-eligible, the 48.7% OOS rate tells you inspectors are finding serious companion violations. Hazmat placarding rules exist for public safety—improper residue handling puts responders and the public at risk. There have been zero citations in the last 90 days in our database, which may reflect heightened operator awareness or lower violation frequency in bulk-transport sectors. Don't assume your operation is below enforcement radar—correct placarding and residue handling now.

The citation typically follows the carrier in FMCSA's Safety Management System, since hazmat placarding and residue handling are carrier-level compliance obligations. However, the driver bears responsibility at roadside: you must verify your load is properly placarded before departing. The violation can affect both the driver's record (for failed inspection) and the carrier's BASIC scores and insurance. Both driver and carrier should treat this as a compliance gap requiring immediate remediation and training.