The Complexities of USCG Regulations for Auto Carriers

by | Monday, June 2, 2014 | 0 comment(s)

Auto carriers are extremely large, complex vessels. As such, there are a numerous, detailed regulations by which car carrier companies and operators must abide.

Types of Auto Carriers

Car carriers are unique vessels that feature a box-like superstructure. Many fully enclose the cargo and have the capacity to hold thousands of vehicles. They also typically have dual ramps for faster loading and have extensive automatic fire control systems.

Some of the vessels considered car carriers include:

  • roll-on/roll-off ships (ro-ros);
  • ferries;
  • cargo ships;
  • cruise ferries;
  • certain barges;
  • pure car carriers (PCC;) and
  • pure car/truck carriers (PCTC).

The Complexities of Auto Transport Carrier Regulations

The U.S. Coast Guard and international governing agencies impose detailed regulations for each type of vessel in operation. Car carriers are unique in nature. They are not only cargo vessels, but they also carry combustible materials, heavy cargo and passengers. Each of these distinctions has its own set of exclusive regulations.

For instance, a car carrier might be subject to:

  • 49 CFR 176.905, Stowage of motor vehicles or mechanical equipment;
  • 46 CFR 111.105-40, Additional requirements for RO/RO vessels;
  • 49 CFR 173.220, Internal combustion engines, self-propelled vehicles, mechanical equipment containing internal combustion engines, battery-powered equipment or machinery, fuel cell-powered equipment or machinery;
  • 29 CFR 1918, Safety and Health Regulations for Longshoring; and
  • other construction, safety, labor, logging and navigation procedures and protocols.

The USCG explains that vessel owners – including car carriers – will be expected to adhere to a certain set of standards that pertain to:

  • commercial regulations;
  • design and engineering;
  • operation and environmental standards;
  • inspection and evaluations;
  • Marine Safety Center guidelines; and
  • International Maritime Organization guidelines.

Obtaining Help for Adhering to USCG Regulations for Auto Carriers

Given the enormity and complexities of federal and national rules and regulations, many car carrier companies seek our professional independent expert advisory services to ensure their operators are up to snuff.

If you decide to enlist in the services of an advisory organization, select one that not only will ensure your auto carriers are up to code, but one that also will:

  • advise you about your hull design and system arrangement;
  • help you optimize your hull to reduce resistance and fuel consumption;
  • ensure you select equipment approved for safe cargo handling and securement;
  • make sure your systems and material take manufacturing standards, weight and fire resistance into consideration; and
  • ensure your construction methods are handled safely and cost-efficiently.

Helpful Resources for Car Carrier Owners and Operators

You can contact the appropriate department with the USCG for further assistance. A few helpful points of contact include:

  • the Director of Commercial Regulations & Standards, 202-372-1351;
  • the Office of Design & Engineering Standards, 202-372-1353; and
  • the Marine Safety Center, 703-872-6729.

You also can find many helpful industry articles on My Vessel Logs blog, a widely read blog published by MET, a company serving the marine industry for nearly 45 years. Check out our free guide to learn which logbooks you might need for your vessel.

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