Intermodal equipment rule in effect

Jul 27, 2009

A final rule intended to strengthen safety requirements for intermodal container chassis that hold cargo containers went into effect June 17.

The special trailers are used to transfer cargo from ship or rail to truck for final delivery. According to a notice of the final rule published in the Federal Register, the new regulations would make intermodal equipment providers subject to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations and establish shared safety responsibility among IEPs, motor carriers and drivers. IEPs must have regular and systematic inspection, repair and maintenance programs in effect by Dec. 17, while marking of equipment with a Department of Transportation identification number must be in effect by December 2010.