What 393.122(f) means in plain language
FMCSR 393.122(f) addresses how paper rolls must be fastened and positioned on your truck. The regulation requires that paper rolls be secured in accordance with specific securement rules designed to prevent them from shifting, rolling, or falling during transport.
In practical terms, this means your load of paper rolls cannot simply be stacked loosely in the cargo area. They need to be immobilized using blocking, bracing, straps, or other devices that keep them in place whether you're accelerating, braking, or taking a curve. The securement methods must be appropriate for the size, weight, and shape of the paper rolls you're hauling.
Inspectors checking this violation are looking at whether your paper rolls are properly restrained and whether the restraint system itself—chains, straps, bars, or blocking—is in working order and actually doing its job. A single unsecured or inadequately secured paper roll can trigger this citation.
What our enforcement data actually shows
Across our 13 million+ inspection records, 393.122(f) is a rare citation. Our database shows only 1 citation all-time for this code, with 0 citations in the last 12 months and 0 in the last 90 days. This places 393.122(f) at rank #2796 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume.
When this violation does result in an out-of-service order, it appears to be serious. Our records indicate 1 out-of-service placement from 1 total citation, yielding a 100.0% out-of-service rate. This is substantially higher than the all-FMCSR average of 31.4%, suggesting that when inspectors cite paper roll securement failures, they typically judge the violation severe enough to remove the vehicle from service.
The very low citation count does not mean the violation is unimportant—it reflects the fact that most carriers comply with paper roll securement requirements, or that inspectors encounter this cargo type infrequently. Either way, the data suggests this is not a widespread enforcement focus nationally.
Who gets cited most
Our inspection records show carriers such as Maybach International Group LLC (USDOT 2487790) with citations for this code. Given the minimal enforcement volume, regional and carrier-specific patterns are not yet established in our database. The scarcity of citations means this violation is not concentrated in any particular state or carrier fleet at a level our data can reliably rank.
If you haul paper rolls regularly, the best approach is to assume this citation can occur anywhere, since it depends on the cargo type and inspector diligence rather than geography.
How severe is this compared to similar codes
Paper roll securement sits within the Vehicle Maintenance category alongside many more frequently cited codes. For context, consider these peer violations:
393.9(a) — Inoperable required lamps accounts for 660,737 citations in our database with a 15.4% out-of-service rate. This is cited far more often than 393.122(f), but results in an out-of-service order much less frequently.
396.3(a)(1) — Inspection/repair/maintenance (general) has 236,919 citations and a 45.3% out-of-service rate. This broader maintenance code is cited thousands of times more often and leads to removal from service in nearly half of cases.
393.47E — Slack adjuster defective shows 180,363 citations with a 0.0% out-of-service rate, meaning inspectors cite it but rarely place vehicles out of service for it.
The 100% out-of-service rate for 393.122(f)—when citations do occur—suggests inspectors view paper roll securement failures as a safety hazard that merits immediate vehicle removal. This is more stringent than most peer codes in its category.
How to avoid it
If you transport paper rolls, adopt these concrete pre-trip and load-securing practices:
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Inspect blocking and bracing before loading. Check that all wooden blocks, metal brackets, or adjustable bars are intact, not cracked or bent, and properly mounted to the cargo area. A loose bracket is as bad as no bracket.
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Verify straps, chains, and securement devices are rated for the load. Examine chains and straps for rust, fraying, or damage. If a strap is worn, replace it. Ensure all attachment points (D-rings, stakes, or frame loops) are secure and not bent.
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Position and stack paper rolls to minimize movement. Place rolls so they rest against the cab or bulkhead, or against each other in a stable configuration. Do not leave gaps that allow rolls to shift side-to-side during turns or braking.
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Use proper restraint for the roll diameter and weight. Larger rolls may require more robust blocking or multiple straps. Do not assume one strap per roll is sufficient if that roll can roll under the strap due to its diameter.
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Perform a final shake test before departing. After securing the load, gently move the truck side-to-side and apply light brake pressure while watching the paper rolls. They should not shift noticeably. If they do, tighten straps or add blocking.
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Document your securement method. Take a photo or note the specific devices used (e.g., "three chains, forward blocking, cross-straps"). This record helps if an inspector questions your method and supports your defense if you believe the citation was issued in error.
Since paper rolls are cylindrical and prone to rolling, the temptation to rely only on straps is common—and risky. Use a combination of blocking (to prevent rolling in the direction of travel and stop) and straps (to prevent side-to-side movement). Redundancy is your safest bet.