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CDL · Hauling Cargo

How often must cargo securement be inspected during a trip?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

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

  1. A Within the first 50 miles, and then every 150 miles or 3 hours, whichever comes first
  2. B Every 500 miles
  3. C Only at the start and end of the trip
  4. D Only when stopping for fuel

Why this is the answer

Federal regulations require that cargo securement be inspected within the first 50 miles of the trip, then again every 150 miles or every 3 hours, whichever comes first. Securement must also be re-inspected any time the driver changes duty status, takes a break, or before starting after a rest. The first 50 miles is the highest-risk window because vibrations and shifting often loosen straps and chains shortly after departure. The 150-mile / 3-hour rule catches gradual loosening on longer trips. Stopping only at fuel stops is not sufficient. The driver is legally responsible for the load even if a shipper or other party did the loading and securing.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 3.2.4 Cargo Securement Inspection

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About this topic: Hauling Cargo

You are legally responsible for the load even when someone else loads and secures it. Tiedown counts, working load limits, and 50-mile recheck rules are tested heavily. This is one of 7 General Knowledge questions on hauling cargo, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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