Reference materials regarding this topic are available in PDF form for download on the Helpful Forms page.

IMPORTANT REMINDER:

INTERMODAL SAFE CONTAINER ACT:

Following, is a recap of the new regulation. Download shipper's Guide to the ISC Act
  • For containers or trailers with 29,000 pounds cargo weight or more, a weight certification must be provided to the first carrier of an intermodal shipment at or before the time the container or trailer is tendered to the carrier.
    Certification to include:
    1. The gross weight of the cargo, including packaging, pallets, and dunnage (loose packing material used to protect a ship's / container cargo from damage during transport). WEIGHT MUST BE ACCURATE
    2. A reasonable description of the contents of the container.
    3. The identity of the person/entity presenting the certificate.
    4. The container of trailer numbers.
    5. The date of weight certification.
  • If no weight certification is provided, it is assumed the shipment weights less than 29,000 pounds.
  • It is the responsibility of the shipper to provide the certification to the receiver in case of port-to-port shipments, or to the shipping line when a through Bill of Lading is to be issued and road transport in the U.S.A. is provided. The certification can either be a separate document conspicuously marked "INTERMODAL CERTIFICATION" or it can be incorporated in the bill of lading or other shipping document. The certification can be transmitted electronically.
  • Also, a major change from the previous law -the certification does NOT have to physically move with the container or trailer.
NOTE: MAXIMUM GROSS WEIGHT TO BE NO MORE THAN 42,000 POUNDS FOR A 20' CONTAINER TO BE DELIVERED WITH A TRI-AXLE CHASSIS. The total maximum vehicle weight allowed for cab, chassis, and container is 80,000 pounds. The weight of cab, chassis, and container can vary considerably. Therefore, maximum gross weight for container should be 42,000 pounds to allow for these variables.

***VERY IMPORTANT*** Please note: freight must be evenly distributed throughout the container. The weight of each set of tandem axels shall not exceed 34,000 pounds and the gross weight of the two consecutive sets of tandem axles shall not exceed 68,000 pounds. This includes the weight of the container, chassis, and cargo)

Should you have any questions regarding this regulation, please contact our office for further clarification.