Read explanations, practical guides and industry perspectives on the questions drivers and operators face.
Before leaving a receiver, confirm the load’s document requirements, match shipment details and check every required page and signature. Photograph clearly, submit to the correct job or contact, and retain originals. Electronic POD upload can support this handoff. Resolve specific missing items through dispatch; approval and payment remain subject to actual requirements and agreements.
For refrigerated food rejected over temperature concerns, preserve trip data, document the receiver's measurements, and obtain authorized handling instructions. Food-safety clearance, cargo disposition, insurance notification, and formal claims require separate attention. A normal setpoint or rerouting instruction cannot establish that the food is safe. Apply current rules alongside the shipment contract and insurance policy.
Cargo securement must be checked before departure, within the first 50 miles, and again at the earliest duty-status change, three-hour point, or 150-mile point. Drivers should inspect both tension and damage, verify working load limits and commodity-specific rules, and stop safely for loose equipment, unusual noise, door deformation, or seal-related concerns.
A valid MC or USDOT number cannot authenticate the person sending a load. Hold last-minute pickup, destination, vehicle, or payment changes; verify the registered entity through Motus and an independent SAFER callback; and preserve original records. Active theft requires 911 or local police. NCCDB, CHP CTIP, IC3, FTC, and DOT OIG serve different reporting purposes.
