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Securing intermodal containers: 49 CFR 393.126

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

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

Short answer

Under 49 CFR 393.126, a container on a chassis locks at all four lower corners with devices that cannot come loose. It may move no more than 1/2 inch forward, back or sideways, or 1 inch up. Front and rear are secured independently. On other trailers, chains, wire rope or integral devices hold the lower corners, or crossed chains hold the upper corners.

In this guide
  • On a container chassis
  • On other trailers
  • Empty containers
  • Cargo inside
  • FAQ

On a container chassis

  • All lower corners locked with devices that cannot come loose in transit (49 CFR 393.126(b)).
  • Movement limits: 1/2 inch forward, aft, left and right; 1 inch vertical.
  • Front and rear secured independently.

On other trailers

  • Loaded: all lower corners rest on the deck or a support that is itself secured.
  • Held by chains, wire rope or integral devices at all lower corners, or crossed chains at all upper corners.
  • Attachments cannot come loose in transit.

Empty containers

  • Stable before tiedowns are added.
  • Overhang 5 feet or less at front and rear.
  • Secured against side, lengthwise and vertical shifting.

Cargo inside

Freight inside follows the general rules or commodity rules. See general load securement rules for dry vans.

Related: flatbed cargo securement and steel coils, dry van seals and load locks, certificates of insurance for mills and plants.

FAQ

How much movement is allowed on a chassis?

No more than 1/2 inch forward, aft, right or left, and no more than 1 inch vertically.

Do front and rear have to be secured separately?

Yes. On a chassis and on other vehicles, the front and rear are secured independently.

Can a loaded container ride on a flatbed?

Yes, if all lower corners rest on the deck or a secured support, and it is held at all lower corners or by crossed chains at all upper corners.

What about empty containers?

On non-chassis trailers they need not rest on all corners if stable, overhang is 5 feet or less front and rear, maneuverability is not affected, and the container is secured against shifting.

Who secures the freight inside?

Cargo inside the container must be secured under 393.100 to 393.114 or the commodity rules. The shipper usually loads it; the driver should note seal and load condition.

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

Sources