FMCSR 393.112: Tiedown Not Adjustable by Driver

No. Across our 13 million inspection records, 393.112 citations result in out-of-service placement only 0.6% of the time—5 OOS placements out of 878 all-time citations. This is far below the national FMCSR average of 31.4%, meaning inspectors treat this violation as correctable without immediate vehicle removal. You can typically continue operating while you arrange the repair.

No, it's among the least severe. The data shows 393.112 sits at rank #748 of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume, with 878 all-time citations. Similar cargo and equipment violations like 393.128 (cargo securement for roll-on/roll-off containers) and 393.130 (cargo securement for heavy equipment) both appear in our co-occurring violation list, but 393.112's 0.6% OOS rate is dramatically lower than codes like 396.3(a)(1) at 45.3% OOS or 393.9(a) at 15.4% OOS.

First, inspect the tiedown mechanism to confirm the finding. Second, check if you were also cited for related violations—our data shows 393.112 frequently co-occurs with 392.2RG (fatigue/illness), 393.9 (lamp issues), 396.17C (inspection proof), and 391.41APC (medical certificate problems). Address those immediately if cited. Third, schedule repair of the tiedown adjustment mechanism before your next load. Fourth, document the repair for your records and the FMCSA DataQs system if you contest the citation.

Our inspection records show 17 citations for 393.112 in the last 90 days, with zero out-of-service placements. This is a steady but low-volume violation. The 12-month trend shows fluctuation between 1 and 13 citations per month, with August 2025 hitting the highest at 13 citations and April 2025 the lowest at 1 citation.

Over the last 180 days, Texas leads by far with 27 citations and a 0.0% OOS rate, followed by Iowa with 6 citations and also a 0.0% OOS rate. These are the only two states with significant 393.112 citation counts in our database. The concentration in Texas suggests regional differences in inspection focus or carrier operations in that jurisdiction.

Ford is the most-cited make with 104 all-time 393.112 citations, representing a clear majority. Freightliner (36 citations), International (32 citations), and trailers generically (28 citations) follow. This pattern likely reflects fleet composition and the prevalence of Ford vehicles in towing and wrecker operations—our top-cited carriers include tow services like TOW 2 TOW WRECKER SERVICE LLC and ROAD STAR TOWING INC.

Yes. The FMCSA DataQs system allows you to challenge roadside inspection findings through the Roadside Defect Remediation (RDR) process. Since 393.112 is an equipment-based violation (tiedown adjustment capability), you can contest by providing documentation of repair, photos of the corrected tiedown mechanism, or maintenance records. Submit your evidence within 45 days of the citation issuance. Consult your company's safety manager or a compliance professional for guidance on your specific case.

Moderately urgent. While only 0.6% of 393.112 citations lead to immediate OOS placement, the violation indicates a safety defect that affects load security. Our data shows 17 citations in the past 90 days, a steady enforcement pattern. More importantly, 393.112 co-occurs frequently with serious violations like fatigue (392.2RG) and missing medical certificates (391.41APC), suggesting inspectors may scrutinize your entire operation. Repair within 5–7 business days to avoid a second citation and protect your CSA scores.