Bulk wine transportation

While I am not an expert on tanker loads of bulk wine we do transport a large number of “caged” totes or “stainless steel” tanks for our customers across the pacific northwest and California. For those transporting full totes or tanks I think it’s important to know a couple of regulatory and safety items.

Regulatory:

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

• FMCSA implemented requirements to help improve safety and training requirements for those whom transport “bulk” items.

• A driver is required to have a “Tanker Endorsement” on their Commercial Drivers License if:
  Cargo includes liquid or gaseous individual containers larger than 119 gallon capacity.
  The containers are loaded, and not empty.
  The total combined volume in those containers exceeds 1,000 gallons.

• The rules have been in place since 2015.

• If you or your carrier gets stopped without the endorsement the truck / load can be shut down and not allowed to move until a licensed operator is available, $5,000 fine and potential drivers license suspension.

• Ensure tank is sealed… if it’s leaking going down the road, you are only losing money, it can also cost you another ticket… “Unsecure load.”

Safety:

• Bulk liquids move / slosh. So it’s really important you understand the impacts to handing with your vehicle and trailer.

• Increase your defensive driving posture.

• Plan your route and for any potential issues.

• Secure the tanks down with appropriately rated straps and the correct number.
  Example: the first and last four feet of any “flat bed” load must be secured with (2) straps.

I hope this helps you stay safe and legal. Please call me if you have any questions.

-RT