Bulk Wine Transportation

Feb 20, 2019

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.

Robert