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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