Regulations for Securing Intermodal Containers

It wouldn’t be exaggerating to say that our society couldn’t run without intermodal containers. These containers ship goods from all over the world and allow for easy transition between ship, rail, and truck shipping methods. If you’re a truck driver moving these intermodal containers, it’s important that you understand the regulations for securing intermodal containers. These regulations are in place to make sure you and anyone around you during transit is safe from any possible accidents.

Securement on Container Chassis Vehicles

The following regulations for securing intermodal containers only apply to intermodal containers contained in a chassis vehicle. You must use securement devices or integral locking devices to secure the four bottom corners of the intermodal container. These devices must be such that they cannot unintentionally come undone while the container is in transit. Your securement devices must prevent the intermodal container from moving more than a certain distance in any direction. Securement devices must be placed correctly so that the intermodal container:

• Can’t move more than 1.27 cm (1/2 in) forward or aft
• Can’t move more than 1.27 cm (1/2) to the left or the right
• Can’t move more than 2.54 cm (1 in) vertically

You cannot secure the front and rear of the intermodal container with the same device. The front and rear of the container must be fastened separately. Securement on Other Vehicles Besides Container Chassis Vehicles If the intermodal container is being transported by something other than a container chassis vehicle, the regulations change a little bit. All the container’s lower corners need to rest on the vehicle. If they do not, they must be supported by an independently secured structure capable of bearing its weight. There are certain devices that must be used to secure the container to the vehicle transporting it:

• Wire ropes, chains, or devices that are fixed to every lower corner
• Crossed chains that are fixed to all of the container’s upper corners

As in a container chassis vehicle, the front and rear of the intermodal container must be independently secured. Any device, chain, or rope that you’re using must also be secured in a way that prevents it from becoming undone while the vehicle is in motion. Logistick Inc. wants to provide you with this information so you can safely and effectively do your job. If you need securement devices such as cargo load bars, Logistick Inc. is where you will find the best.