What 393.114D-C means in plain language
This violation covers the improper securement of automobiles and light trucks loaded onto auto transport trailers. When you're hauling vehicles as cargo, federal regulations require them to be fastened, chained, or otherwise secured so they cannot shift, tip, or fall during transit.
Proper securement means using chains, straps, or other devices rated for the weight and type of vehicle you're transporting. A loose bumper, a slack strap, or a vehicle that can rock side-to-side on the trailer deck all constitute failures under this code. Inspectors check whether your securing hardware is tight, correctly positioned, and appropriate for the load.
What our enforcement data actually shows
Across our 13 million+ inspection records, 393.114D-C is a low-volume citation: only 20 all-time citations and just 5 in the last 12 months. In the last 90 days, we saw 1 citation. Notably, this code has a 0.0% out-of-service rate—none of the 20 citations resulted in an out-of-service order. This stands in sharp contrast to the all-FMCSR average out-of-service rate of 31.4%, meaning inspectors typically issue this violation as a warning or minor defect rather than a roadside shutdown.
393.114D-C ranks #1938 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume, placing it well below the enforcement attention given to other vehicle maintenance violations.
Who gets cited most
Our inspection records show citations concentrated in three states over the last 180 days: Arizona (1 citation), California (1 citation), and Kansas (1 citation). All three states showed a 0.0% out-of-service rate for this code.
Among carriers, our data shows fleets such as Corwin Company Inc with 3 citations and Pines Auto Hauling LLC with 2 citations. Both are specialized auto transport operators, which is expected given the code's narrow applicability.
How severe is this compared to similar codes
Within the vehicle maintenance category, 393.114D-C is significantly less cited than peer violations. For comparison:
- 393.9(a) — Inoperable required lamps has generated 660,737 citations with a 15.4% out-of-service rate.
- 396.3(a)(1) — Inspection/repair/maintenance (general) accounts for 236,919 citations with a 45.3% out-of-service rate.
- 393.11 — Lighting devices/reflectors shows 179,734 citations with a 1.8% out-of-service rate.
The 0.0% out-of-service rate for 393.114D-C also contrasts sharply with codes like 396.3(a)(1), where inspectors place vehicles out of service in nearly half of all citations. This suggests that cargo securement defects, when found, are usually correctable on-site or not severe enough to warrant immediate removal from service.
How to avoid it
Pre-trip and loading checks:
-
Inspect all chains and straps before loading. Look for rust, cracks, bent links, or frayed webbing. Replace anything that looks worn or damaged. A visual check takes two minutes and prevents a citation.
-
Use the correct securing method for each vehicle type. Sedans, SUVs, and light trucks have different wheel bases and weight distributions. Ensure your chains or straps are rated for the heaviest vehicle on your load.
-
Tighten every connection point. After loading and before departure, walk the length of the trailer and verify that each chain or strap is snug. Vibration during transit will loosen connections; start tight.
-
Position securing devices symmetrically. Chains should be angled from the frame of the vehicle to the anchor points on the trailer, not just wrapped around bumpers or bumper covers.
-
Check for shifting during your trip. If you stop for fuel or rest, walk around and visually confirm no vehicle has moved or tilted. A 10-second check can catch a problem before an inspection.
-
Carry documentation or photos of your securing setup. Some fleets photograph properly loaded trailers to show inspectors the standard they follow.