FMCSA Cargo Securement and Weight Limits

Question 1

Under FMCSA cargo securement rules, what is the maximum Federal gross vehicle weight for a CMV on the Interstate Highway System?

Accepted Answer

80,000 lbs

Answer

The federal gross vehicle weight limit on Interstate highways is 80,000 lbs unless a state-issued special permit allows more.

Question 2

What is the maximum allowable single axle weight under federal bridge law?

Accepted Answer

20,000 lbs

Answer

Federal law limits single axle weight to 20,000 lbs to protect roadways and bridges from structural damage.

Question 3

How must working load limit (WLL) be used when calculating tie-down requirements for cargo?

Accepted Answer

Sum of all tie-down WLLs must equal or exceed 50% of the cargo weight

Answer

The aggregate WLL of all tie-downs must equal at least 50% of the cargo weight as a minimum securement requirement under 49 CFR 393.102.

Question 4

What is the maximum tandem axle weight allowed on Interstate highways under federal law?

Accepted Answer

34,000 lbs

Answer

Federal law sets the maximum tandem axle weight at 34,000 lbs on Interstate highways.

Question 5

A flatbed driver loading 48 feet of steel coils must check cargo securement:

Accepted Answer

Within the first 50 miles and then every 3 hours or 150 miles

Answer

FMCSA requires cargo securement checks within the first 50 miles after loading and then every 3 hours or 150 miles, whichever comes first.

FMCSA - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Practice Test