AUTOMOBILE CONTAINER LOADING GUIDELINES

The following guidelines for the proper loading and stowage of automobiles in containers are offered as information and guidance to customers.  We do not perform nor contract for the stowage of automobiles within containers.  The proper loading and securing of vehicles within containers is the sole responsibility of the shipper.

We will book and receive automobiles on either door or a CY basis, within sealed containers.   

INTERMODAL SHIPMENT

Intermodal shipments of automobiles moving by rail are subject to the loading policies of the rail carrier.  The major US railroads all adhere to loading guidelines as issued by the Association of American Railroads (AAR).  As a service to our customers, these guidelines are highlighted as follows:

• All shipping papers, waybill and shipping instructions must clearly identify the lading with the appropriate STCC code and commodity description.

• The fluids are drained from the vehicles.

• The batteries are disconnected and cable ends are taped.

• Secure motorcycles / snowmobiles to skids / pallets.  Block the skid / pallet with sections of 2 x 6 on all sides to prevent movement.

• The vehicles can only be loaded one high.  No vehicle can be suspended with wire / chains / nylon banding or blocking above the floor loaded vehicles.

• Each wheel of each vehicle must be blocked on both sides ( tread side ) and on the outside  (wall of tire ) of each tire. The blocking is to be positioned lengthwise to the container.

• The blocking must be 2 x 6 x 24 " in dimension and laminated (two high).

• Secure all blocking with sixteen penny nails.

• Position the nails every four inches in an alternating pattern.

• Apply nylon strapping to frame of the vehicle and to the container anchor points.  Only one strap per anchor point.

• Position dunnage material (panels of Styrofoam, honey comb panels of fiberboard ) between rear of the nose vehicle and the front of the rear vehicle to prevent against contact if shifting does occur.

We will bill all automobile shipments to the underlying rail carrier with the appropriate STCC code.  The rail carriers, as always, reserve the right to inspect the stowage, blocking and bracing of any shipments at delivery to the rail ramp.  The rail carrier may reject loads that do not meet the standards noted above.

NON-INTERMODAL SHIPMENTS

For all shipments, the responsibility to ensure proper stowage, blocking and bracing lies with the shipper; as does all liability for the condition of vehicles.   We recommend that the shipper stow vehicles in a manner that will ensure safe loading and unloading, and protection to the cargo.

For non-intermodal shipments via shipping line, the following stowage guidelines should be observed:

• At least two wheels of each vehicle must be the floor of the container

• Automobiles must be properly blocked and braces in a seaworthy manner.

• Nylon strapping, if used, should secure vehicle to four or more “D-ring” lashing points

• Vehicle battery should be disconnected, with cables secured and insulated to prevent short circuit or sparking

• Gasoline tanks should be drained and engine run to a stall.  If not drained, tank should be no more than ¼ full (in which case, the vehicle shipment will be considered as hazardous cargo.)

RECOMMENDED WHEEL BLOCKING TECHNIQUE