Transporting Cargo
Inspecting cargo, weight and balance.
3.1 Inspecting cargo
You are responsible for your cargo even if someone else loaded it (unless the trailer is sealed and you were told not to open it).
- Inspect cargo and securement devices within the first 50 miles of a trip.
- Re-check every 3 hours or 150 miles (whichever comes first) and after every break.
Санҷиш When must cargo first be re-checked after starting a trip?
Манбаъ: FMCSA — 49 CFR Part 392 — Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles (eCFR current), 49 CFR 392.9. Навшуда: 2026-10-09
3.2 Weight and balance
Key weight terms: GVW (actual weight of a single vehicle and load), GCW (combination), GVWR/GCWR (manufacturer ratings), and axle weight.
| Federal Interstate limit | Weight |
|---|---|
| Single axle | 20,000 lb |
| Tandem axle | 34,000 lb |
| Gross vehicle weight | 80,000 lb |
Bridge formula and state permits can change what is allowed. A high center of gravity raises rollover risk; poor weight distribution makes steering and braking unsafe.
Манбаъ: AAMVA / FMCSA — Commercial Driver License Manual (AAMVA model manual used by state CDL manuals) (Model manual — verify your state edition). Навшуда: 2026-10-09