DOT Shipping by Vessel

Much like the DOT and IATA similarities, when shipping by vessel, the DOT regulations are like those of the IMDG. You can find the regulations pertaining to domestic vessel shipments in 49 CFR §176. You can find specific stowing regulations in the following locations:

• 49 CFR §176, Subpart C - General handling and stowage
• 49 CFR §176, Subpart D - General segregation requirements
• 49 CFR §176, Subpart E - Special requirements for transport vehicles transported on ferry vessels
• 49 CFR §176, Subpart F - Special requirements for barges
• 49 CFR §176, Subparts G through O -Special requirements broken out by class

Stowage is broken out into three categories:

• On deck stowage requires that the material is being stored on the weather deck. If that is located in a housing of some kind, it must be vented in some manner to the atmosphere.
• Under deck stowage references a hold or compartment below the weather deck strictly for carrying cargo.
• To qualify as under deck away from heat, the storage area must be below deck and have built in ventilation.

The DOT Subparts G through O break out requirements by class. Some of the specific materials discussed in these subparts are:

• Chlorine
• Charcoal
• Ammonium nitrate
• Cotton or vegetable fibers

To learn more about Multimodal Shipping visit our Multimodal DOT, IATA & IMDG HAZMAT Shipping Online Training web page.