DOT Regulations for RV Transport

Let’s jump right in and go over some of the main DOT Regulations for RV transport:

• RVs must be operated in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.

• Drivers of RVs must wear a seatbelt at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

• All drivers of RVs must possess a valid driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle being driven.

• RVs should not exceed their manufacturer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

• All load securement requirements such as tie downs, straps or chains must be followed when transporting an RV.

• For trips over 150 miles, drivers are required to take periodic rest breaks of at least 15 minutes every two hours.

• Drivers must obey all posted speed limits and traffic signals on the roadways.

• All RVs that are to be used for commercial purposes, as well as any vehicle with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) over 10,000 lbs must comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

• These regulations include drug and alcohol testing for drivers; regular inspections of vehicles; and adherence to hours-of-service rules.

• All drivers operating an RV with a GCWR above 10,000 lbs will also need to obtain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

DOT Changes to Hours Of Service Rules for RV Drivers

In 2015, the RV Industry Association's effort was successful in establishing a CDL exemption for the transport of newly-produced RVs, which has allowed dealers and manufacturers to deliver RVs without needing to find drivers who possess commercial driver’s licenses. Visit BOC-3.

The exemption applies to shipments with actual vehicle weights not exceeding 26,000 pounds or gross combined weights not exceeding 26,000 pounds. This has enabled more efficient delivery of new RVs from manufacturers and dealerships directly to the consumer. It is important to note that this does not apply to previously owned recreational vehicles – any shipment involving used RVs still requires a Class A or B commercial driver’s license. Read here about Starting a Trucking Company Correctly

The new “hours of service” rules will allow CDL drivers to operate more efficiently, and transport RVs from the factory to dealerships faster. This should help alleviate some of the pressure on commercial drivers who are already stretched thin due to the driver shortage and increasing demand for RV shipments. Not only does this help reduce costs for transport companies, but it also helps consumers receive their RVs in a timely manner and with minimal delays. What is DOT SAP Program?

What Are the General Hours Of Service Regulations for RV Transportation?

According to the DOT, drivers must take a minimum 10-hour rest period before beginning another work cycle. Working for more than 60 hours across seven straight days and 70 hours in eight consecutive days is prohibited. The drivers' logbooks must be maintained for 7 and 8 days after the respective periods. How To Request the DOT PIN Number?

Drivers can only remain on-duty for a maximum of 14 hours following the 10 off-duty hours. Pause or breaks such as meals, fuel stops cannot be used to extend the duty period limit. A mandatory 30 minutes break should also be taken by the driver within 8 hours of being on-duty. Importance of The FMCSA 30-Minute Break Rule.

What Is the DOT Adverse Driving Conditions Exception?

If it's not possible to pull over at a hotel or rest area for the 10 hours off-duty, driving time may be extended by up to two extra hours. However, this cannot be used as an excuse due to bad weather - if you can safely stop during an 11-hour drive, then you must do so, unless making it back to your home terminal within 14 hours (or under the 16-hour exception) is feasible. What is MC Number?

What Is the 16-Hour Exception?

For those who only drive once a week, the 16-hour exception may be applied. Drivers can be on-duty for up to 16 hours if they start and end their day at the same terminal. However, driving time cannot exceed 11 hours. It is not possible to use both the 16-hour exception and the adverse driving conditions exception simultaneously. After using the 16-hour exception, a 34-hour reset must occur before it can be used again. Lastly, when coming on duty, drivers must not begin driving after the 16th hour has passed. Also, take a look at Drug and Alcohol Program policy.

What Are the Penalties for Failing To Adhere With RV Driving Regulations?

RV drivers may be subject to roadside shutdown until they have had enough time off-duty to become compliant again. State and local law enforcement officers can issue fines for violations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and DOT can impose civil penalties on drivers or carriers, which range from $1,000-$11,000 depending on the severity of the offense. Additionally, a carrier's safety rating might drop due to a pattern of violations. In extreme cases where a carrier knowingly and willfully breaks the rules, federal criminal charges may also be brought forth. What is DOT Clearinghouse Enforcement?

Bill of Lading Information for RV Transport

The FMCSA and DOT require freight carriers or their agents to prepare a written bill of lading for each shipment they transport. This serves as an official record and contract between shipper and carrier, which outlines the details and value of the goods being shipped. It also gives the freight carrier temporary ownership rights over the items in transit. To ensure compliance with its regulations, the FMCSA has established certain mandatory terms, conditions, and information that must be included on each bill of lading. Read about Texas DOT Number and USDOT Number. Learn here How to Prepare for a Compliance DOT Audit.

A bill of lading must always accompany the shipment until it is delivered to the consignee. The responsible driver should keep the document in their possession throughout its journey. After delivery, carriers are required to hold onto bills of lading for a period of at least one year from when they were created. Keeping this record is part of ensuring smooth shipping operations and compliance with regulations. Check out The Basics of Farm Exemptions. You will then have the ability to maintain complete motor carrier authority or broker.

Regulations for Proof of Insurance & Payments

The bill of lading should contain the form of payment, along with any associated terms or conditions. If the carrier is providing service on a collect basis, they must include the maximum amount they will charge for delivery and provide contact information which can be used to discuss charges if necessary. It is essential that this information is included in the bill of lading to ensure smooth processing and payment upon delivery. What are the Top 3 DOT paper appointed Violations?

When shipping goods, bills of lading must include the actual date of pickup and a statement of the declared value. Additionally, details about insurance coverage should be included. The FMCSA sets out alternate provisions regarding dates for guaranteed and non-guaranteed service. It is essential to ensure that these regulations are taken into account when making transportation arrangements. This will help ensure that shipments reach their destination on time and with all appropriate documentation in place. You will need driver qualification files filed out by all employees that drive for you working. Also, take a look at What Is IRP or Apportioned Registration.

Summary: Key DOT & FMCSA Regulations for RV Transporters

Here are some of the most important DOT and FMCSA regulations for RV transporters:

• RV transporters must adhere to both U.S. DOT and FMCSA regulations.

• All drivers of commercial vehicles, including RVs, over 10,001 pounds are required to possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

• Commercial motor vehicle drivers must comply with hours of service requirements which limit the number of hours worked in any given day or week. Must Visit the link.

• Drivers transporting trailers over 10,000 pounds GVWR must have an endorsement on their CDL for either “H” (for hauling cargo) or “N” (for operating a tank vehicle).

• Operators of vehicles carrying hazardous materials must obtain proper endorsements.