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Securing cars, light trucks and vans on a car hauler: 49 CFR 393.128

Helm PartnersUpdated Oct 30, 2026Sources checked Oct 30, 2026

This guide is general information, not advice on any policy.

Short answer

Under 49 CFR 393.128, each car, light truck or van of 10,000 pounds or less is restrained at front and rear with at least two tiedowns, against side, forward, rearward and vertical movement. Tiedowns on the vehicle use its designed mounting points. Wheel straps must restrain in every direction. Vehicles over 10,000 pounds follow 393.130.

In this guide
  • What the rule covers
  • Tiedowns
  • Wheel straps and webbing
  • FAQ

What the rule covers

Automobiles, light trucks and vans of 10,000 pounds or less each (49 CFR 393.128(a)).

Tiedowns

  • At least two tiedowns per vehicle.
  • Restrained at front and rear against side, forward, rearward and vertical movement.
  • Attachment to the vehicle only at mounting points designed for it.

Wheel straps and webbing

  • Wheel straps restrain in all three directions.
  • No edge protectors needed where webbing meets the tire.

Related: crushed and flattened vehicle securement, heavy equipment securement on a flatbed, flatbed cargo securement and steel coils.

FAQ

How many tiedowns per car?

At least two, restraining the vehicle at both front and rear.

Where can tiedowns attach?

Tiedowns fixed to the vehicle's structure must use mounting points designed for that purpose.

Are wheel straps allowed?

Yes. Straps over or around the wheels must restrain the vehicle sideways, lengthwise and vertically.

Do I need edge protectors on tires?

No. Edge protectors are not required where synthetic webbing contacts the tires.

What about a vehicle over 10,000 pounds?

It follows 393.130, the rule for heavy vehicles, equipment and machinery. See our heavy equipment guide.

This guide is general information, not advice on any policy.

Sources