What 393.116D3 means in plain language
Intermodal containers—the large steel boxes you see stacked on chassis and platforms—must be physically secured to the vehicle they're riding on. This code covers the fastening systems, locking mechanisms, and attachment points that keep those containers from shifting, tipping, or separating during transit.
Securement isn't optional. Whether your container is locked to the chassis via twist-locks, corner castings, or other approved hardware, every connection point matters. If an inspector finds that a container isn't properly fastened to its platform, you'll be cited. The regulation applies to every intermodal move—domestic, port-related, or cross-border.
The cite is about hardware, installation, and verification. Before you roll, you need to confirm that every lock, pin, and fastening device is engaged and functional. A loose twist-lock, a missing pin, or a broken corner casting all fall under this violation.
What our enforcement data actually shows
Across our 13 million+ roadside inspection records, 393.116D3 has generated 1 citation all-time, with 0 citations in the last 12 months and 0 in the last 90 days. The code ranks #2796 of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume.
When enforcement does occur, it tends to result in an out-of-service (OOS) citation. Our data shows a 100.0% OOS rate for this violation—meaning every time an inspector has cited it, the vehicle was placed out of service. Compare that to the all-FMCSR average OOS rate of 31.4%. This code sits well above that baseline, signaling that inspectors treat unsecured intermodal containers as a serious safety defect that requires immediate correction before the vehicle returns to the road.
The scarcity of citations reflects how container securement is enforced. Most intermodal operations are conducted by large carriers with robust maintenance and loading protocols. But when the violation does surface, enforcement is swift and consequential.
Who gets cited most
Our inspection records show that JOSH COX FARMS (USDOT 2790837) received 1 citation for this code. Given the extremely low national citation count, state-by-state breakdowns and multi-carrier patterns are not meaningful in this dataset.
If you operate intermodal containers—whether as a dedicated intermodal carrier or as part of a mixed fleet—this code should be on your radar even though citation rates are low. The 100.0% OOS rate means that if you do encounter a violation, downtime is certain.
How severe is this compared to similar codes
Cargo securement and vehicle integrity issues sit alongside other maintenance-category violations. Our data shows how enforcement varies:
- 393.9(a) — Inoperable required lamps: 660,737 citations all-time with a 15.4% OOS rate. Lighting violations are far more frequent but much less likely to trigger an out-of-service order.
- 396.3(a)(1) — Inspection/repair/maintenance general: 236,919 citations with a 45.3% OOS rate. This broader maintenance category has higher OOS frequency than lighting but still falls below 393.116D3's rate.
- 393.47E — Slack adjuster defective: 180,363 citations with a 0.0% OOS rate. Brake adjusters, though critical, are rarely placed out of service at roadside compared to container securement failures.
The 100.0% OOS rate on 393.116D3 underscores that unsecured cargo—especially heavy intermodal containers—presents an imminent hazard. Inspectors have zero tolerance for it.
How to avoid it
If you haul intermodal containers, treat securement as a mission-critical pre-trip task. Here's what to do:
- Walk the entire perimeter of the loaded container before departure. Check all four corners and both long sides. Visually inspect and manually test each twist-lock or locking mechanism. Never assume it's locked just because you can't see daylight.
- Verify corner casting alignment and condition. Damaged or misaligned castings prevent locks from seating properly. If a corner casting is cracked, corroded, or bent, the load cannot be safely secured.
- Test every lock engagement point. Shake the container at the lock points. There should be zero play. If a lock is loose or won't stay engaged, do not roll.
- Document your securement check. Note the condition of locks, pins, and castings on your pre-trip report. This protects you if an inspector later questions your process.
- Know your equipment's limits. Different chassis and containers have different securement systems. If you're unfamiliar with a particular setup, ask your dispatcher or the container depot staff to walk you through the process before you leave.
- Inspect after any road event. If you experience rough road conditions, a sharp turn, or any jarring movement, pull over safely and re-check your container securement before continuing.
- Report defective hardware immediately. If you discover a broken twist-lock, missing pin, or cracked corner casting, notify your fleet manager or the terminal. Do not attempt a workaround or proceed with a partial securement.
Container securement is non-negotiable. The 100.0% OOS rate reflects the hazard: an unsecured multi-ton container can separate from the vehicle, roll, or strike other traffic. Inspectors will stop you and ground the vehicle. The time you invest in a thorough pre-trip securement check pays off in compliance, safety, and uptime.