Tie-down regulations for agricultural trucks

The California Highway Patrol has issued a temporary exemption for agricultural haulers of perishable products, from new cargo-securement regulations that took effect Jan. 1, 2007. The exemption affects commodities hauled in bins, boxes and tubs during the 2009 harvest season and is valid through April 30, 2011, or until federal regulations are adopted.

Carriers must apply for the exemption; it is not automatic. Below, you'll find the information and forms needed to apply.

The CHP has issued the exemption to provide time for further studies of tie-down rules. The California Farm Bureau will work with the CHP to determine the safest possible method to move bins, boxes and tubs.

Background information

Exemption Instructions (PDF, 14 KB)
Frequently Asked Questions (PDF, 21 KB)
How to Secure Loads (PDF, 54 KB)

Forms

Exemption Form (PDF, 64 KB)
Monthly Report Form (PDF, 25 KB)

Ag Alert coverage

Federal ruling on truck cargo securement rules could come soon (October 7, 2009)
CHP extends current cargo securement exemption (April 1, 2009)
Haulers in holding pattern over hay securement rules (October 31, 2007)
Feds take closer look at California tie-down methods (October 17, 2007)
Individual CHP approval needed for tie-down exemption (June 27, 2007)
Ag haulers exempt from new rules (June 20, 2007)
Tie-down law could jeopardize hauling of crops (June 13, 2007)
New hay-hauling rules could pose safety risk (March 21, 2007)