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Securing heavy equipment on a flatbed: 49 CFR 393.130

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

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

Short answer

Under 49 CFR 393.130, wheeled or tracked machinery weighing 10,000 pounds or more needs at least four tiedowns that stop movement sideways, forward, back and up. Tiedowns go as close as practicable to the front and rear, or at mounting points built for it. Buckets and other accessories must be lowered and secured, and articulated units kept from bending.

In this guide
  • Who the rule covers
  • What it requires
  • A pre-trip checklist
  • FAQ

Who the rule covers

Heavy vehicles, equipment and machinery that operate on wheels or tracks, such as loaders, bulldozers, tractors and power shovels, weighing 10,000 pounds or more each (49 CFR 393.130(a)).

What it requires

  • Accessory equipment, such as hydraulic shovels, completely lowered and secured.
  • Articulated machines restrained so they cannot articulate in transit.
  • At least four tiedowns restraining lateral, forward, rearward and vertical movement.
  • Tiedowns as close as practicable to the front and rear, or at designed mounting points.

A pre-trip checklist

  • Weight of each piece on the paperwork.
  • Bucket, blade and boom down and secured.
  • Four or more tiedowns, rated and in good condition (393.110 for general tiedown counts).
  • Photos of the secured load before departure.

Related: flatbed cargo securement and steel coils, flatbed cargo claims and tarp damage, Michigan oversize permits, Ohio oversize permits, Indiana oversize permits.

Bundled building products: lumber and building materials securement.

Lighter vehicles: car hauler securement for automobiles and light trucks.

FAQ

What weight triggers 393.130?

10,000 pounds (4,536 kg) or more per piece, for vehicles, equipment and machinery that operate on wheels or tracks.

What about lighter machines?

They may be secured under 393.130, under 393.128, or under the general rules in 393.100 through 393.114.

Do I have to lower the bucket?

Yes. Accessory equipment such as hydraulic shovels must be completely lowered and secured to the vehicle.

Where do the tiedowns go?

As close as practicable to the front and rear of the machine, or at mounting points designed for that purpose.

Do oversize permits change this?

No. Permits cover size and weight. Securement rules still apply. See our state permit guides.

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

Sources