What 173.301F-HMGP means in plain language
FMCSR 173.301F-HMGP addresses hazardous materials packaging and containment requirements. Specifically, this regulation sets standards for how hazardous materials must be packaged, labeled, and prepared before transport. The rule requires that hazmat be loaded into appropriate containers that meet DOT specifications and are designed to contain the material safely during normal driving conditions.
When an inspector cites you for 173.301F-HMGP, they are saying that the packaging, container condition, or preparation of your hazardous materials load did not meet federal standards. This could mean the container was damaged, unsealed, improperly labeled on the outside, or not rated for the specific hazmat class you were transporting. It's a violation that focuses on the physical integrity and readiness of the load itself, not just paperwork or placarding.
What our enforcement data actually shows
Across our 13 million+ roadside inspection records, 173.301F-HMGP ranks #2,796 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume. Our database shows only 1 citation on record for this code in the last 12 months, and that single citation resulted in 0 out-of-service placements—an out-of-service rate of 0.0%.
This stands in sharp contrast to the all-FMCSR average out-of-service rate of 31.4%. The data indicates this violation is rarely cited and, when it is, inspectors are not immediately sidelining vehicles. Over the past 90 days, our records show 1 citation. In the 12-month period ending April 2026, we recorded 1 citation, with that single citation occurring in February 2026.
Who gets cited most
Our inspection records show that New York is the only state in the top-three list with reported citations for 173.301F-HMGP in the last 180 days, with 1 citation and a 0.0% out-of-service rate.
At the carrier level, our data shows a fleet such as FleetGenius LLC (USDOT 3490693) with 1 citation on record. This data point reflects the extremely low enforcement frequency for this code across the industry.
How severe is this compared to similar codes
When you look at other hazardous materials violations in the same regulatory family, the enforcement picture changes dramatically. The code 177.834A-HMC, which addresses general loading and unloading of hazmat, has generated 3,954 citations in our database with a 99.2% out-of-service rate. Similarly, 177.834(a) has 3,839 citations and a 97.9% out-of-service rate.
By comparison, 172.502(a)(1)—placarding general requirements—shows 1,820 citations with an 18.5% out-of-service rate. The data in our database indicates that 173.301F-HMGP is among the least-enforced hazmat-related codes, and when violations do occur, they are treated less severely than related loading, unloading, and placarding violations.
How to avoid it
Based on patterns in our inspection data, here are concrete steps to prevent this citation:
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Inspect your container before loading. Check for dents, cracks, leaks, or corrosion on the outside of any hazmat package. Our records show that when 173.301F-HMGP is cited, it frequently appears alongside 393.100B-C (cargo securement violations), suggesting that container condition is tied to overall load integrity. A damaged container fails the standard immediately.
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Verify the container is DOT-rated for your specific hazmat class. Don't assume a generic drum or carboy will work. Confirm the label on the container lists the DOT specification and that it matches the hazmat material you're transporting. This is your first line of defense.
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Ensure all seals are intact and tamper-evident. Before you leave the shipper's facility, physically inspect every seal, cap, and closure. If anything looks worn, loose, or partially open, request a new container or a reseal by the shipper.
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Check that external labels and markings are legible and properly affixed. Our data shows that 173.301F-HMGP co-occurs with 177.834A-HMC (loading/unloading hazmat violations) in the same inspection. Make sure the package itself is clearly marked with the hazmat class and shipping name before you accept it into your vehicle.
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During your pre-trip inspection, walk around the load. Pay special attention to RAM vehicles or any vehicle type in your fleet that may have been cited before; our records show RAM was the make cited in the one case on file. Look for any signs of shifting, spillage, or container degradation that may have occurred since loading.
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Know your shipper's packing standards. Unsafe packaging often originates at the point of origin. If you notice a pattern of poorly packaged hazmat from a particular shipper, escalate it to your safety manager before the next pickup.
The low citation rate for this code should not lull you into complacency. Hazmat violations can result in federal penalties, mandatory safety training, and carrier audits. The best strategy is to enforce strict pre-load and pre-trip inspection routines and never accept a container that shows visible signs of compromise.