FMCSR 393.136D: Improper Secure Cubic Boulder — Driver Q&A

Yes—almost certainly. Across our inspection records, every single instance of 393.136D resulted in an out-of-service placement. Our data shows an OOS rate of 100.0% for this code, compared to a national average of 31.4% across all FMCSR violations. This means if an inspector cites you, your truck will be taken out of service until the load securing issue is corrected and re-inspected.

First, do not move the vehicle. Stop at a safe location and secure the cubic boulder load immediately. Inspect the securing mechanism thoroughly—our data shows this citation commonly co-occurs with other load-securing and brake system failures: slack adjuster defects appeared in 2 shared inspections, steering issues in 2, and brake tubing problems in 3. Have a qualified technician verify the load securing meets FMCSR standards before you request a re-inspection. Do not attempt to move the truck until it passes a follow-up inspection.

This is exceptionally serious. While 393.136D ranks #2269 by citation volume (only 8 all-time citations in our database), its 100% out-of-service rate far exceeds the national FMCSR average of 31.4%. In contrast, the most-cited vehicle maintenance codes—like inoperable required lamps (660,737 citations)—have OOS rates of only 15.4%. The fact that every 393.136D citation results in OOS placement reflects the severe safety risk of improperly secured large objects.

In the past 180 days, our records show all 4 citations for 393.136D occurred in Texas, with all 4 resulting in out-of-service placements. This is a very rare violation nationally—only 8 citations appear in our entire 13 million+ inspection database. If you operate primarily in Texas and transport cubic boulders or oversized loads, load-securing procedures should be a primary focus of your vehicle maintenance checklist.

Extremely rarely. Our inspection records show only 8 citations for improper cubic boulder securing across all time, with 4 in the last 12 months and 3 in the last 90 days. The citation trend is rising slightly—we saw 2 citations in March 2026 alone—but it remains one of the rarest FMCSR codes by volume. This rarity makes it even more critical: if inspectors are citing it, they consider it a serious hazard.

If you transport cubic boulders or similarly large, angular loads, verify that all load-securing devices (straps, chains, or specialized cradles) are rated for the weight and dimensions of your load and are properly tensioned. Our data shows 393.136D frequently appears alongside brake and steering defects, suggesting inspectors examine the entire vehicle condition when load security is questionable. Check chains and straps for wear, ensure all attachment points are secure, and confirm the load cannot shift during braking or cornering. Document your pre-trip inspection in writing.

Yes, you can contest the citation through FMCSA's DataQs (Corrective Action and Compliance Status) system. However, 393.136D is an equipment and load-securing violation, not a paperwork error—disputing it will require clear photographic evidence and documentation proving the load securing met FMCSR standards at the time of inspection. If the inspector observed visible loose straps, broken chains, or load movement, the citation is likely defensible only if you can prove the damage or displacement occurred after initial loading or between the inspection and photo evidence.

Our records show 393.136D citations are distributed across eight different carriers, each with one citation—including Cabrera Trucking LLC, James Davis, Man Transportation LLC, IPS Trucking LLC, GP Williams Cattle Co Inc, Rosa Lidia Romo, Road Runna Logistics LLC, and Yanisbel Martinez Aguilera. No carrier pattern emerges, suggesting this is tied to specific load-handling incidents rather than systemic fleet practices. If you operate an owner-operator or small fleet, a single citation can significantly impact your DOT safety record.