FMCSR 393.87(b) — Warning Flags on Projecting Loads

No, not typically. Across our 13 million inspection records, 393.87(b) citations result in an out-of-service order only 2.1% of the time. That's significantly lower than the all-FMCSR average OOS rate of 31.4%. Out of 241 all-time citations in our database, only 5 resulted in an out-of-service placement. A flagging deficiency is usually correctable on the spot or within a short timeframe without losing your operating authority.

A single 393.87(b) citation carries a CSA severity weight of 3 points. That's the base weight applied to the Cargo Securement BASIC in your safety profile. The actual points scaled into your 30-day rolling violations depend on when you received the citation—violations accumulate within your current rolling window. Check your FMCSA Safety Management System (SMS) portal to see your current CSA point total and trajectory.

First, photograph or document the load configuration exactly as the inspector found it. Second, verify your current fleet's flagging procedures and make sure warning flags meet FMCSA spec on any projecting cargo. Third, if the citation was issued, request the inspection report from your carrier or the state DOT to confirm the specific deficiency. Fourth, review your logbook and load sheet for that trip. Finally, brief your dispatcher and safety team on the finding so they can audit similar loads going forward.

It's among the least serious in the Vehicle Maintenance category. Our inspection data shows 393.87(b) has a 2.1% OOS rate, far below peers like 393.9(a) (Inoperable required lamps at 15.4% OOS) and 396.3(a)(1) (Inspection/repair/maintenance at 45.3% OOS). In fact, 393.87(b) ranks #1169 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by total citation volume—only 241 citations all-time. Most flagging issues don't escalate to roadside takeouts because the fix is straightforward.

Yes. The DataQs (FMCSA's Record Dispute Resolution process) allows you to challenge factual accuracy in your inspection report. For 393.87(b), your best grounds are: (1) the load did not actually project beyond legal limits, (2) flags were properly installed but missed by the inspector, or (3) the load configuration complied with your carrier's cargo securement plan. File your dispute within 120 days of the citation. Include photographs, load documentation, or your safety plan as evidence. The FMCSA will review and either uphold, modify, or remove the citation.

No enforcement activity in the last 90 days. Across our 13 million inspection records, there have been zero 393.87(b) citations in the last 90 days and zero in the last 12 months. All 241 citations in our database are older. This suggests either very low compliance failure rates nationwide or reduced inspector focus on this particular violation. If you're being cited now, it may warrant a closer look at your load securing procedures, but the violation is statistically rare in current roadside activity.

Our inspection data shows J B HUNT TRANSPORT INC (USDOT 80806) and BENNETT TRUCK TRANSPORT LLC (USDOT 600382) each have 3 citations for 393.87(b)—tied for the highest. SFS CORPORATION (USDOT 657635) also has 3. These are all-time counts across the full 13 million record database. The wide spread of citations among many carriers suggests this is not concentrated in a single operator's fleet, but rather a sporadic compliance issue across the industry.

Moderately urgent for compliance, but low risk of immediate takeout. Since the OOS rate is only 2.1%, you're unlikely to be forced off the road at the next inspection. However, flagging is a safety and regulatory requirement—projecting loads that aren't properly flagged create hazards and invite repeat citations. If cited, address it before your next trip: inspect all warning flags, verify they meet FMCSA standards, and brief your loader on correct procedures. The violation is fixable in hours, not days.