These criteria are used by enforcement to determine whether a driver or vehicle poses an imminent hazard. If it does, that unit is placed out of service until the issue is corrected.

A total of 17 changes were approved for 2026. Here is the full breakdown.

Full List of 2026 Updates

• “Part I, Item 2. Operator’s/Chauffer’s License or Permit (Non-CDL) b. and c.” and “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. and d. Endorsements and Restrictions” were amended to separate endorsements and restrictions and clarify the violation codes.
• A note on intrastate restriction was added to “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. Endorsements and Restrictions.”
• “Part I, Item 8. Intoxicating Beverages, b. Be on Duty or Operate” was amended to state that when the driver has wine or beer with an alcohol content of 0.5% or more, or any distilled spirit, the driver is out of service.
• “Part I, Item 10. Driver’s Record of Duty Status – U.S., a. Property-Carrying Vehicles (6) and (7)” were amended to include situations where the inspector can determine actual driving or rest periods, even if records are false.
• A new out-of-service condition was added under “Part I, Item 10… (8)” for both property and passenger carriers when tampering makes it impossible to determine what events occurred.
• The reference to automatic onboard recording devices was removed from “Part I, Item 10… Footnote 6” due to regulatory changes.
• The note in “Part I, Item 11. Driver’s Record of Duty Status – Canada, h. No Daily Log” was moved to “i. No Previous 14 Days” for better alignment.
• Out-of-service conditions in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems” related to defective brakes and air brake hose or tubing were moved into the 20% defective brake threshold section. The term service gladhands was updated to service air connections.
• Hydraulic and electric brake lining measurement language was updated to better align with federal regulations.
• “Parking Brake” now reads “Parking or Emergency Brake” to reflect both functions.
• The ExTe Com90 securement system was added under cargo securement rules for logs.
• A new damage chart was added to the tiedown defect table for wire rope.
• A section specific to countersunk screws was added under upper coupler requirements, including kingpin.
• New language addresses missing pieces of rims, and the previous language about center holes between cracks was removed.
• “Part II, Item 14… Hubs (5)” was removed due to inconsistent enforcement.
• A new out-of-service condition applies when emergency exits are marked but do not include operating instructions.
• Language was added to clarify that missing placards for multiple divisions within the same class can result in an out-of-service condition.
• A new chart outlines seven types of federal out-of-service orders to improve enforcement clarity.

What This Means on the Road

These updates are not minor wording changes. They shape how inspections are handled and how quickly a situation can escalate into an out-of-service violation.

Areas like ELD accuracy, brake condition, and cargo securement continue to be a high focus. At the same time, clearer language around licensing, placards, and equipment standards removes some of the gray area that used to exist during inspections.

Staying Prepared

The full 2026 out-of-service criteria is available through the CVSA online store and as a mobile app.

Knowing these updates before the next inspection can be the difference between rolling through or sitting until a violation is cleared. Staying organized, keeping equipment in check, and understanding how inspectors apply these rules all play into keeping operations moving.

For questions about the criteria, contact Kerri Wirachowsky, CVSA’s director of inspection programs, at kerri.wirachowsky@cvsa.org or call 202-998-1650.

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Federal safety records show 4,587 securement violations yearly, most tied to injuries that proper equipment prevents. Flatbed jobs demand full compliance with 49 CFR 393 standards for every load. These tools deliver proven results that keep you hauling steady.

Ladders and Boots for Safe Deck Access

Falls account for 32% of trucker injuries per Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Flatbed haulers face constant exposure to climbing uneven freight without a stable footing at the shippers’.

A telescoping aluminum ladder rated 375 pounds gives wide rungs and grip feet for secure footing on every climb. It eliminates jumping or stretching to reach tarp edges. Composite toe boots with slip-resistant soles and ankle support grip wet decks where regular shoes fail.

You complete pre-trip inspections faster while avoiding sprains that bench good drivers.

Edge Protectors and Tarps That Hold Through Wind

Sharp freight corners wear through straps fast, causing cargo movement linked to 1,200 crashes annually. Roadside inspections catch these failures and hurt your safety score.

Rubber edge protectors rated 3,000 pounds working load wrap corners to distribute tension evenly. They preserve full strap strength through long runs. Heavy-duty vinyl tarps with D-rings every 18 inches cover completely while allowing airflow against moisture buildup.

This setup withstands 40-mile-per-hour crosswinds so you roll without emergency repacks.

Headlamps and Deck Lights for Night Checks

Regulations require securement checks every three hours or 150 miles, but darkness hides slack that leads to rollovers. Late shippers make visibility essential.

A 600-lumen rechargeable LED headlamp works hands-free with adjustable beams to spot chain wear clearly. Magnetic clip-on deck lights cover the full trailer footprint fast. Class 2 reflective vests with complete strips keep forklifts and traffic from missing you.
You verify everything in 90 seconds, even after sunset, staying fully compliant.

Maintenance That Keeps Gear Reliable

Worn equipment doubles violation risks during audits and stops. Simple care makes quality tools last through hundreds of loads.
Inspect straps for frays, test ladder hinges, and check tarp seams before every trip. Air out wet coverings after hauls and store everything dry. Replace edge protectors after 40 loads or visible wear.

Drivers who maintain like professionals collect clean inspections and stay working.

Search “flatbed jobs near me,” “flatbed jobs,” “flatbed cdl jobs,” “flatbed companies near me,” and “companies hiring flatbed drivers” on Truckdriversus.com to find carriers valuing equipped haulers.

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Why Freight Shifts Inside Dry Vans

Constant road forces like braking, acceleration, cornering, and vibrations push pallets forward, sideways, or against doors, even in well-loaded trailers. FMCSA data shows improper securement contributes to over 20,000 cargo-related crashes yearly. The fully enclosed design blocks any view of this movement, so assume every load presses the rear doors until proven otherwise. This mindset prevents the thousands of annual incidents where drivers get hit by tumbling freight.

Safe Door Opening Steps

Park on level ground away from traffic, set your parking brake, and hit hazard lights first to secure your space. Stand completely to the side of the doors, never behind them, and release latches one at a time, listening for scraping or feeling resistance from leaning cargo.

• Position beside the door to stay clear of the swing path if pallets spill out.
• Crack one latch slowly, pause to check pressure, then proceed to the next.
• For tight doors, create a small gap for a visual inspection and call dock help to stabilize tipping loads.
• Note high-risk freight like tall stacks or LTL mixes on your paperwork and request extra straps at pickup.

These steps stop door surprises cold and safeguard both you and the shipment.

Smart In-Trailer Securement Tips

Evenly distribute weight low and centered to hit legal axle limits and maintain stability, filling gaps with bars, straps, or airbags. FMCSA requires 50% of the cargo weight to be secured against forward movement. Double-block partial loads near doors to block rearward slides, and flag shipper issues like loose wrapping before signing off. Proper bracing cuts damage claims by up to 30%, per industry reports.

Stretching And Body Mechanics Before Tasks

Strains and sprains account for 30% of driver injuries during dolly cranking, tandem sliding, and door handling, per BLS trucking stats. Warm up first with shoulder rolls, neck turns, marching in place, leg swings, and torso rotations to loosen muscles after long drives.

• Crank dollies with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, body close, using legs and alternating hands to spare your back and shoulders.
• Slide tandems with a stable stance, neutral spine, and aligned pulls, no twisting, to protect knees and core.
• Swing heavy doors by stepping close, gripping firmly with both hands if needed, and pivoting feet with the motion.

The right form makes hard work sustainable for more miles.

Parking Area Walkaround Checklist

Slips, trips, and falls cause over 25% of driver claims, often from unseen lot hazards. Scan the full area before trailer work.

• Check for potholes, cracks, gravel, or uneven spots that catch feet during steps back or gear pulls.
• Spot ice, snow, oil, or fuel slicks; test lightly and wear slip-resistant boots.
• Verify lighting or use a flashlight in dark trailer gaps for a clear ground view.
• Clear chocks, pallet scraps, wrap, or debris that moves sideways.
• Ensure rear and sides stay open from people, trucks, or equipment.

This 60-second habit drops fall risks sharply.

Lock In These Habits for Your Career

Mastering door caution, securement basics, body mechanics, and lot checks turns daily risks into non-events. Ready for your next dry van opportunity? Search “dry van truck driver jobs” or “dry van companies near me” on Truckdriversus.com to find the perfect role where safety pros like you thrive.

The post Smart Cargo Loading and Unloading Guide for Dry Van Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

What Happens During International Roadcheck

International Roadcheck is not a paperwork only stop. Inspectors follow a 37 step Level I inspection process that examines both the driver and the vehicle. Enforcement officers review driver credentials, hours of service records, and safety compliance while also conducting a full mechanical inspection of the truck and trailer. Data collected during the event is later released publicly and helps guide future enforcement priorities.

ELD Tampering Is the Driver Focus for 2026

Each year, Roadcheck highlights one primary driver violation category. For 2026, inspectors are placing special emphasis on electronic logging device tampering, falsification, or manipulation. Inaccurate ELD entries can result from misunderstanding federal regulations or exemptions. In other cases, records are intentionally altered to hide hours of service violations. Some logs have been manipulated to conceal driving time without showing required edit indicators under federal rules. ELD compliance has drawn increased scrutiny over the past year. In December, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced a proposal to overhaul the ELD vetting process. While the proposal stopped short of requiring third party certification, it highlighted growing concerns across the industry. Last year, falsification of record of duty status was the second most cited driver violation, totaling 58,382 violations. Five of the top ten driver violations were related to hours of service or ELD compliance.

Cargo Securement Is the Vehicle Priority

On the equipment side, cargo securement is the primary vehicle focus for International Roadcheck 2026. Improper or inadequate securement affects vehicle handling and creates serious safety risks when loads shift, leak, spill, or fall. Inspectors will closely examine tiedowns, dunnage, and load placement throughout the three day blitz. In 2025, 18,108 violations were issued for cargo not secured to prevent leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling. Another 16,054 violations were issued for vehicle components or dunnage that were not properly secured. Cargo securement has been a recurring concern for CVSA and was also a focus area during the 2023 Roadcheck.

What Inspectors Check on the Driver Side

During the driver portion of a Level I inspection, officers verify the driver’s license and qualifications, record of duty status, medical examiner’s certificate, seat belt use, skill performance evaluation certificate when applicable, and Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse status in the United States. Inspectors also watch for signs of alcohol or drug impairment. If an out-of-service violation is found, the driver is prohibited from operating the vehicle until the issue is corrected.

What Inspectors Check on the Vehicle Side

The vehicle inspection covers nearly every major system, including brake systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline and driveshaft components, fuel and exhaust systems, frames, steering mechanisms, suspensions, tires, wheels, rims, hubs, lighting devices, windshield wipers, and the driver’s seat. If out of service violations are identified, the vehicle cannot be moved until those issues are properly addressed.

CVSA Decals and What They Mean

Vehicles that successfully pass a Level I or Level V inspection without critical violations may receive a CVSA decal valid for up to three months. A valid decal signals to enforcement officers that the vehicle was recently inspected and did not have out of service violations, which may reduce the likelihood of repeat inspections during that period.

Who CVSA Is and Why Roadcheck Happens

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance is a nonprofit organization made up of commercial motor vehicle safety officials and industry representatives from local, state, provincial, territorial, and federal agencies across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. CVSA’s mission is to improve commercial motor vehicle safety and enforcement through education, guidance, and collaboration between regulators and the trucking industry, with the goal of preventing crashes, injuries, and fatalities across North America.

Source: Heavy Duty Trucking

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Published in the Federal Register on April 21, FMCSA’s decision reaffirms an exemption for K&L Trucking. This exemption enables the company to use an alternative method to secure large metal coils to its trailers, deviating from the securement rules outlined in federal regulations.

Current Cargo Securement Rules

Under current federal regulations, metal coils weighing over 5,000 pounds and transported with eyes crosswise must adhere to strict securement measures. These rules dictate that the coil be supported off the trailer deck and prevented from rolling. Additionally, at least two tiedowns must secure the coil through its eye to restrict forward and rearward motion.

K&L Trucking’s Initial Exemption

In 2020, K&L Trucking, a company based in Delta, Ohio, was granted a five-year exemption. This allowed them to secure metal coils using a single, two-ply nylon-Kevlar strap. The strap connected the coils to a custom-built metal carrier installed on their trucks’ trailer beds.

According to K&L’s original exemption request, its operations involve transporting metal coils less than two miles away, at speeds that do not exceed 30 mph.

“K&L’s trucks never travel faster than 30 miles per hour on the road, as the drive is simply too short for the trucks to accelerate to a higher speed,” the company explained in 2020. They also noted that the extra weight of the carriers made them unsuitable for long-distance hauls, but ideal for short distances, enhancing safety for both workers and the public.

FMCSA initially approved the exemption on December 4, 2020, granting K&L a five-year period to continue using this alternative securement setup.

Expanded Renewal of the Exemption

Building on the success of its initial exemption, K&L Trucking applied in 2024 for an extension and expansion of the exemption for another five years. The updated exemption will now apply to all K&L drivers operating commercial vehicles and extends the transport radius to less than four miles between pickup and delivery locations.

FMCSA approved the renewal, citing safety as a key factor in the decision. The agency noted that there was no evidence to suggest that the original exemption reduced road safety.

For K&L Trucking, the renewal represents an opportunity to build on their efficient, safety-conscious transport system while continuing to tailor their operations to the unique demands of moving heavy metal coils over short distances.

Source: Land Line

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What’s New in the 2025 Out-of-Service Criteria?

Last year, CVSA’s voting members approved 15 key modifications to the out-of-service criteria. These adjustments are now active and will impact inspections across North America. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most notable changes:

• License Endorsements & Restrictions: Updates have been made to “Part I, Item 2. Operator’s/Chauffeur’s License or Permit (Non-CDL), B. Endorsements and Restrictions” and “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. Endorsements and Restrictions” to clarify Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Certificate requirements.
• Commercial Learner’s Permit: “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, b. Commercial Learner’s Permit (1)” now explicitly states that a supervising driver for a learner must be fully authorized to operate a commercial vehicle.
• Medical Certification Updates: In “Part I, Item 4. Driver Medical/Physical Requirements, b. Medical Certificate (3),” passenger-carrying and property-carrying vehicles are now included under the same out-of-service condition, removing property-carrying vehicles from a separate clause.
• Brake System Changes: A new out-of-service condition has been added for inoperative brakes caused by an unplugged electrical cable in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, A. Defective Brakes, (7) Hydraulic and Electric Brakes, (H).” Additionally, language was added to address a disconnected service gladhand in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing.”
• Air Brake Hose & Tubing Adjustments: The previous out-of-service condition for crimped hoses and tubing, which restricts airflow, has been removed from “Part II, Item 1.” Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing, (5).”
• Brake Hose and Line Markings: Language has been introduced to “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing” and “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, o. Hydraulic Brakes (3)” to address cases where brake hoses or lines are marked for applications other than the specified brake system.
• Tractor Protection System: “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, l. Tractor Protection System” now requires both the primary and secondary systems to be below 20 psi, rather than just one.
• Cargo Securement Clarifications: Additional language has been included in “Part II, Item 2. Cargo Securement, a. General Securement” to clarify violations of regulation 392.9(a)(2).
• Lighting Device Updates: A new section has been added specifically for projecting load lamps under “Part II, Item 9. Lighting Devices (Headlamps, Tail Lamps, Stop Lamps, Turn Signals and Lamps/Flags on Projecting Loads), b. At Any Time – Day or Night.”
• Suspension System Adjustments: Clarifications regarding U-bolt bottom plates have been included in “Part II, Item 11. Suspensions, a. Axle Parts/Members (1).” A note and updated diagram have been added to “Part II, Item 11. Suspensions, d. Suspension Connecting Rod and Tracking Component Assembly (2).”
• Tire Regulations: Additional notes have been added to “Part II, Item 12. Tires, a. Any Tire on Any Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit, (8)” and “b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit (4)” regarding rubber mud flaps.
• Tire Leaks & Automatic Tire Inflation Systems (ATIS): In “Part II, Item 12. Tires, b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit,” a new out-of-service condition has been introduced for tires without ATIS if a leak is present in the tread area. Meanwhile, leaks in the sidewall are now considered out of service, regardless of whether ATIS is used.
• Radial & Bias Tires Unified: Changes to “Part II, Item 12. Tires, b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit, (6)-(7), (8)-(9)” eliminate separate out-of-service conditions for radial and bias tires, merging them into a single category.

What This Means for Drivers

These updates have been fully integrated into the North American Standard Inspection Program, impacting training materials, inspection procedures, operational policies, and training videos. Truck drivers should ensure they understand these changes to remain compliant during inspections.

For further details, truckers can contact CVSA Director of Inspection Programs Kerri Wirachowsky by calling 202-998-1650.

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What Are DOT Chain Regulations?

DOT chain regulations are standards established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to ensure the proper securement of cargo. These rules are designed to minimize the risks of accidents, avoid load damage, and ensure a safer driving environment.

Chains are one of the most effective tools for securing cargo like heavy machinery, construction materials, and logs. For truckers, especially flatbed drivers, understanding these regulations is essential for avoiding fines, ensuring safety, and maintaining compliance.

Key Insights Into DOT Chain Standards

DOT regulations detail specific requirements for securing various types of loads. Here’s what you need to know:

Choosing the Right Chain

Picking an appropriate chain for your cargo is the first step to proper securement. Here are the common chain grades and their uses:

• Grade 70 Chains: Perfect for lighter loads like building materials or smaller equipment.

• Grade 80 Chains: Designed for medium-to-heavy machinery, offering enhanced durability.

• Grade 100 Chains: The most robust choice, ideal for oversized loads requiring maximum strength.

How Many Chains Do You Need?

The number of chains required is based on cargo weight and type:

• Loads over 10,000 pounds must be secured with at least two chains.

• Additional devices, like straps, ratchets, or binders, may be needed for increased stability and to prevent shifting.

Proper Chain Tension

The key to safe cargo securement is striking the right balance in chain tension:

• Too tight? Chains can snap or damage your cargo.

• Too loose? The load may move, creating serious safety risks.

Using ratchet binders can help maintain the ideal tension to keep cargo steady.

Specialized Cargo Rules

Certain cargo types come with additional requirements:

• Heavy equipment typically requires chains threaded through axles or frames for stability.

• Logs or lumber often need extra straps and proper tensioning to stay secure.

• Bulky machinery may require a combination of chains, straps, and binders to lock everything in place.

Equipment Inspections

Drivers are required to inspect their securement equipment at least every 150 miles or after each driving shift. These inspections help catch potential issues like loose chains or damaged components before they become a safety hazard.

Why Compliance Isn’t Optional

Failing to meet DOT chain regulations can lead to significant consequences. Here’s what’s at stake:

• Costly Penalties: Non-compliance can result in hefty fines.

• Operational Delays: Vehicles with improperly secured loads can be declared out of service until corrections are made.

• Accidents and Legal Risks: Unsecured cargo poses severe safety hazards, leading to accidents, injuries, or worse.

Maintaining compliance is not just about avoiding fines—it’s about fostering safer roads for everyone.

Best Practices for Safe Cargo Securement

To ensure you meet DOT standards and protect your cargo, consider these pro tips:

1. Inspect Chains Before Use

Look for signs of wear, such as rust or fraying. Damaged chains should be replaced immediately to prevent failures on the road.

2. Choose the Right Grade

Select chains that match the weight and type of your load. Grade 70 chains work for lighter loads, but heavier pieces may require Grade 80 or 100 to ensure strength and reliability.

3. Maintain Proper Tension

Use ratchet binders to tighten chains appropriately. Avoid overtightening, which can weaken chains, or under tightening, which can lead to shifting cargo.

4. Plan Your Securement Strategy

Before loading, map out where chains will attach and decide whether additional binders or straps are necessary.

5. Carry Extra Supplies

Keep spare chains, binders, and straps on hand for emergencies. You never know when an issue might arise.

6. Stay Updated

DOT regulations and FMCSA guidelines evolve over time. Regular training or refresher courses can help ensure you’re up to date.

Why Cargo Securement Is Vital to Your Success

Properly securing cargo is both a safety measure and a professional standard. It protects your livelihood, your cargo, and other road users. Following DOT chain regulations ensures smoother operations, builds a reputation as a reliable driver, and enhances the safety of everyone on the road.

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