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Understanding the Intermodal Safe Container Transportation Act: Key Regulations and Implications
Definition & Meaning
The Intermodal Safe Container Transportation Act is a federal law that governs the transportation of loaded containers or trailers across multiple modes of transport, from their origin to their destination, in interstate or foreign commerce. This law applies whether the transportation is documented under a single bill of lading or multiple bills of lading. It is established under 49 USCS § 5903.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
This Act is relevant in the fields of transportation law and commerce. It ensures safety and compliance during the intermodal transport of goods. Legal practitioners may encounter this Act when dealing with cases involving freight transportation, shipping regulations, and liability issues. Users can manage related legal processes using templates available from US Legal Forms, which are drafted by qualified attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A shipping company must provide a written certification detailing the weight and contents of a container before it is loaded onto a train for intermodal transport.
Example 2: A truck driver is stopped for exceeding state weight limits while transporting a container. They are informed that they cannot operate the vehicle until the weight is compliant with state law. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary statute governing this area is the Intermodal Safe Container Transportation Act, codified at 49 USCS § 5903. This law outlines the requirements for certification and the prohibitions against coercion in intermodal transportation.
State-by-state differences
State
Weight Limit (pounds)
Certification Requirements
California
80,000
Must provide certification before transport.
Texas
80,000
Certification required for loads exceeding 29,000 pounds.
Florida
80,000
Certification must include detailed weight and contents.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Bill of Lading
A document issued by a carrier to acknowledge receipt of cargo.
The Act covers intermodal transport regulations, while a bill of lading is a shipping document.
Freight Forwarding
The process of arranging the shipment of goods.
The Act specifically addresses safety and certification for intermodal transport, while freight forwarding is broader.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are involved in intermodal transportation and need to certify a container, ensure you gather all required information, including weight and contents. Consider using US Legal Forms for templates that can help you create the necessary documentation. If you face legal complexities, consulting a legal professional is advisable.
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