Preventing Ag Trucking, Transportation Problems This Spring

Photo: Getty Images from Michigan Farm Bureau

As spring gets closer, there are going to be more farm trucks on the road. And that means getting up to speed on rules and regulations.

During the Michigan Corn “Coffee With Corn” series, Craig Anderson, manager of Michigan Farm Bureau’s Agricultural Labor & Safety Services, explained how some transportation problems can be avoided.

“On the federal side, the code does require that the DOT number be visible from 50 feet away and be in contrasting colors,” said Anderson. “The officer is going to look to see whether you have an intent to comply, and we do want to make sure that is visible.”

There are no prohibitions on using a DOT truck for personal use and implements of husbandry are exempt from DOT numbering requirements.

“We did change the definition of an implement of husbandry, so there are more vehicles that will remain within a commercial vehicle structure now, so recognize that if it’s a truck first, then it could likely need a DOT number even though we’re using it for a manure spreader,” said Anderson.

Anderson says one of the other problem areas is not making changes to registrations.

“If we’re operating in interstate commerce, we do need to update our MCS150 on a biennial basis,” he said. “The Unified Carrier Registration structure is attached on and off, but if we are operating within interstate commerce, it is very important that you register and pay the UCR fee. For vehicles that are operated only in intrastate commerce, you would not be paying the UCR fee for those vehicles.”

This information can be found in the Farmers Transportation Guidebook. It’s available online at michfb.com. Click here to watch Anderson’s full presentation.

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