TOFC/COFC [Transportation]: A Comprehensive Guide to Legal Definitions

Q: Are there regulations governing TOFC/COFC services?

Yes, TOFC and COFC services are regulated by federal laws, specifically under Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Q: Can I use US Legal Forms for TOFC/COFC related documents?

Yes, US Legal Forms offers templates for contracts and other documents related to intermodal transport.

Definition & Meaning

TOFC (trailer-on-flatcar) and COFC (container-on-flatcar) refer to a method of transporting freight using rail cars. This service involves moving various types of freight-laden highway vehicles and containers on flatcars as part of intermodal transportation. Specifically, it includes:

Highway trucks, trailers, or semitrailers loaded with freight.
Freight-laden containers that can be detached from their chassis.
Multimodal vehicles that operate as both highway trucks and rail cars.
Intermodal containers designed for transport across multiple modes of transportation.
Empty equipment being transported as part of its use in TOFC/COFC service.

Highway TOFC/COFC service involves the highway transport of these vehicles or containers as part of a continuous intermodal journey that includes rail transport without unloading the trailer or container.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

TOFC and COFC services are significant in the transportation and logistics sectors, particularly in interstate and foreign commerce. These terms are relevant in legal contexts involving transportation regulations, freight contracts, and liability issues. Users may encounter forms related to shipping agreements, liability waivers, or intermodal transport contracts, which can be managed using templates from US Legal Forms.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A logistics company uses TOFC service to transport a loaded trailer from a manufacturing plant in California to a distribution center in Texas. The trailer is loaded onto a flatcar for the rail portion of its journey.

Example 2: A shipping company utilizes COFC service to move freight containers from a port in New York to an inland warehouse, combining rail and truck transport for efficiency. (hypothetical example)

Relevant laws & statutes

TOFC and COFC services are governed by federal regulations found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), particularly in Part 1090, which outlines practices for carriers involved in intermodal freight movement. These regulations ensure compliance with safety and operational standards in the transportation industry.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Description	Difference
TOFC	Trailer-on-flatcar service for transporting trailers.	Specifically focuses on trailers, not containers.
COFC	Container-on-flatcar service for transporting containers.	Exclusively involves containers, distinct from trailers.
Intermodal Transportation	Transporting freight using multiple modes of transport.	TOFC/COFC are specific methods within intermodal transport.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in the transportation of freight using TOFC or COFC services, consider the following steps:

Ensure compliance with federal regulations regarding intermodal transport.
Review shipping contracts and agreements to understand your rights and responsibilities.
Utilize US Legal Forms' templates for contracts and liability waivers to streamline your documentation process.
If you encounter complex legal issues, consult a legal professional for tailored advice.

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Quick facts

Attribute	Details
Typical Fees	Varies based on distance and freight type.
Jurisdiction	Federal regulations apply, with state laws potentially influencing local operations.
Possible Penalties	Non-compliance with regulations can result in fines or operational restrictions.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the main difference between TOFC and COFC?

TOFC refers to trailer-on-flatcar transport, while COFC refers to container-on-flatcar transport. The key difference lies in the type of freight being transported.