core rules
Flattened or Crushed Vehicles
Flattened or crushed vehicles can have sharp edges, unstable stacks, and loose parts. Use the federal commodity section and general rules together.
Quick Answer
Flattened or crushed vehicles can have sharp edges, unstable stacks, and loose parts. Use the federal commodity section and general rules together.
Sharp, uneven, and not cleanly packaged
Crushed vehicles are not neat rectangular cargo. Jagged metal, loose parts, and uneven stacks can damage securement devices and change how the load settles.
The federal section supports indexable treatment, but the field review still needs company policy for fluids, loose parts, and yard handling.
Inspection red flags
Look for exposed edges against straps, chains riding over unstable corners, parts that can fall away, and compression that opens a gap under a tiedown.
If containment depends on sideboards, racks, or other vehicle structures, check condition and allowed use.
Source notes
This page maps to 49 CFR 393.132 and separates securement notes from environmental or salvage-yard procedures.
Checklist
- Check for loose parts and fluid concerns under policy.
- Protect securement devices from sharp edges.
- Verify stack stability and containment.
Practical Notes
This topic carries elevated securement risk. Verify the current eCFR rule text, carrier policy, shipper requirements, manufacturer ratings, and the physical condition of every device before a truck moves.
Primary Sources / References
Last reviewed:
- FMCSA Cargo Securement Rules Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration · official · reliability: high
- 49 CFR Part 393 Subpart I - Protection Against Shifting and Falling Cargo Electronic Code of Federal Regulations · regulation · reliability: high
- 49 CFR 393.132 - Flattened or crushed vehicles Electronic Code of Federal Regulations · regulation · reliability: high