What 393.116D-CL means in plain language
FMCSR 393.116D-CL addresses the secure fastening of intermodal containers to the chassis or platform on which they're transported. When an inspector cites this code, they've determined that the container was not properly anchored, blocked, or otherwise restrained in a way that prevents shifting, tipping, or movement during transit.
This applies to drivers hauling containerized cargo—think shipping containers, portable tanks, or other intermodal units that sit on top of or are mounted to a truck chassis. The regulation requires that these units stay put under normal driving and braking conditions. A loose or inadequately secured container poses a serious safety risk to the driver, other road users, and the cargo itself.
What our enforcement data actually shows
Our inspection records show that 393.116D-CL carries a 97.9% out-of-service rate—far above the all-FMCSR average of 31.4%. That means nearly every citation results in the truck being placed out of service. Over the last 90 days, we recorded 11 citations for this code; over the last 12 months, 34 citations. All-time across our 13 million+ inspection records, there have been 47 citations, ranking this code #1656 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume.
The near-universal OOS rate reflects how seriously inspectors treat cargo securement. A container that isn't properly secured is an imminent hazard, and enforcement is swift. In the all-time data, only 1 citation out of 47 did not result in an out-of-service citation.
Who gets cited most
Across our last 180 days of data, Minnesota leads with 7 citations (all resulting in OOS), followed by Michigan with 4 citations (100% OOS rate), and Georgia with 2 citations (100% OOS rate). South Carolina and West Virginia each recorded 1 citation with a 100% OOS rate.
All-time, our data shows carriers such as Todd William & Beverly Lynn Seeburger (USDOT 606331) and Rieger Trucking Inc (USDOT 1106599) with 2 citations each. Jason Lee Helsel (USDOT 1867691) also has 2 all-time citations. Most other operators in our records have 1 citation. The consistency of the 100% OOS rate across all states indicates uniform and strict enforcement of this rule.
How severe is this compared to similar codes
Within the Vehicle Maintenance category, cargo securement violations sit in a unique position. Compare this to 393.9(a)—Inoperable required lamps—which has accumulated 660,737 citations with a 15.4% OOS rate; or 396.3(a)(1)—Inspection/repair/maintenance general—with 236,919 citations and a 45.3% OOS rate. The sheer citation volume on those codes dwarfs 393.116D-CL's 47, but their OOS rates are substantially lower.
Meanwhile, codes like 396.17C-PI and 396.17(c)—both related to proof of periodic inspection—have over 200,000 citations each but 0.0% OOS rates. The 97.9% OOS rate on 393.116D-CL reflects the immediate danger posed by loose intermodal containers and the inspector's authority to order the vehicle off the road until corrected.
How to avoid it
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Pre-trip inspection focus: Before departing, visually inspect all straps, chains, locks, or blocking devices securing the intermodal container. Walk around the unit. Tug on each securement point. Ensure fasteners are tight and show no signs of wear, rust, or corrosion that could compromise strength.
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Know your equipment: Freightliner, Western Star, Kenworth, Mack, and Peterbilt units appear most frequently in our citation records for this code. Become familiar with the specific securement points and hardware on your tractor-chassis combination.
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Check lighting and lamp condition: Our data shows that lighting-related codes often appear in the same inspections as cargo securement violations. Ensure all lights, reflectors, and marker lamps are functional and properly aimed so inspectors can thoroughly examine the cargo area.
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Conduct a thorough pre-trip: The co-occurring citations in our database include violations for failure to conduct pre-trip inspections. A formal, documented walk-around that specifically addresses container securement will catch loose straps, missing chains, or damaged blocking before you hit the road.
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Pay attention after loading: Even if the shipper or loading dock personnel secure the container, it is your responsibility as the driver. Verify the securement yourself. Do not leave until you are satisfied that the container cannot shift during acceleration, braking, or cornering.
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Monitor during transit: Stop periodically on longer hauls to re-inspect securement, especially after highway miles or rough roads. Vibration and movement can loosen initially tight fasteners.