U.S. Regulations And Industry Standards For Dunnage And Cargo Securement

Dunnage Protective or stabilizing material placed around goods to cushion, separate, or prevent movement during shipment. For U.S. shippers and carriers, dunnage choices are not only operational — they intersect with federal cargo securement rules, international maritime guidelines, and export/import restrictions (for example, treated wood requirements).

This article summarizes the regulatory landscape and industry standards that commonly govern dunnage selection and use in the United States. Understanding these rules helps avoid fines, customs holds, and costly cargo damage claims.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Cargo Securement Rules

The FMCSA sets cargo securement standards for commercial motor vehicles in the United States. Those rules require that cargo be adequately secured to prevent shifting or falling from the vehicle. While FMCSA does not mandate specific dunnage types, it requires that whatever dunnage and blocking are used must keep the load from moving during normal driving maneuvers.

• Label: FMCSA enforces performance — cargo must be immobilized and prevented from shifting under acceleration, deceleration, and turning.

International Maritime Regulations And Best Practices

For ocean shipments, IMO guidance — including the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing — is the industry touchstone. The code provides engineering and operational guidance for controlling cargo during sea transport and is widely referenced by carriers and insurers. Solas requirements and carrier-specific stowage instructions also affect dunnage choice, particularly for stacked or heavy units.

Export/Import Restrictions — Wood Dunnage And ISPM 15

Raw wood dunnage and bracing used in export containers often fall under ISPM 15 phytosanitary rules. Wood must be heat-treated and stamped to the ISPM 15 standard to prevent pest spread. Many countries will reject or fumigate shipments with untreated wood, causing delays and added cost.

• Label: Use ISPM 15–compliant wood for export shipments to countries that require it; otherwise, choose alternative materials (plastic, foam, treated plywood) when export requirements are uncertain.

Occupational Safety And Health — Handling Dunnage In The Warehouse

OSHA standards do not prescribe dunnage types but cover safe materials handling and storage practices that apply when moving and positioning dunnage. Employers must train workers on proper lifting, mechanical handling for heavy blocking, and safe use of inflation equipment for airbags to minimize injury risk.

Industry Standards And Test Methods

Industry standards provide test methods and performance benchmarks rather than regulatory commands. ASTM publishes tests for packaging performance (for example, drop tests and vibration tests) used by manufacturers to validate foam inserts and cushioning. Standards from organizations like ISO and ASTM help shippers specify dunnage that meets expected performance under simulated transport environments.

• Label: Reference ASTM/ISO test methods when creating procurement specs for high-value or fragile goods.

Practical Compliance Steps For Shippers

Operational steps reduce regulatory and commercial risk: document your packing methods, train staff on securement requirements, use ISPM 15–compliant wood for exports, and retain load plans and photos for each container. When using airbags or new dunnage technology, keep manufacturer instructions and certificates on file to demonstrate due diligence in the event of an incident.

• Recordkeeping: Keep photos and checklists for a minimum period that reflects your carrier’s claims window and contractual terms.
• Training: Provide periodic securement and dunnage handling training with documented attendance.
• Supplier Specs: Require suppliers of dunnage to supply technical data sheets and usage instructions.

In short, the Dunnage used in U.S. shipments must satisfy performance expectations under FMCSA rules, follow IMO guidance for ocean carriage, and meet export/import restrictions such as ISPM 15 where applicable. Combining regulatory awareness with documented packing procedures and training reduces delays, fines, and cargo losses.