Waterways - Stowage of Motor Vehicles and Mechanical Equipment

A vehicle or any mechanical equipment powered by an internal combustion engine, a fuel cell, batteries, or a combination of any of those listed is subject to the following requirements when carried as cargo on a vessel:

• Before being loaded on a vessel, each vehicle or mechanical equipment must be inspected for fuel leaks and identifiable faults in the electrical system that could result in short circuit or other unintended electrical source of ignition. A vehicle or mechanical equipment showing any signs of leakage or electrical fault must not be transported.
• The fuel tank must not be more than one-fourth full.
• Whenever possible, each vehicle or mechanical equipment must be stowed to allow for its inspection during transportation.
• Vehicles or mechanical equipment may be refueled when necessary in the hold of a vessel in accordance with §176.78.

Other general requirements for motor vehicles and mechanical equipment on board vessels can be found in §176.905.

To learn more about Waterways HAZMAT visit our DOT Waterways HAZMAT Online Training web page.