Interchange Agreement
A written contract between a motor carrier and an intermodal equipment provider that governs the use, maintenance responsibilities, and liability for intermodal equipment such as containers and chassis.
An Interchange Agreement is a written contract between a motor carrier and an intermodal equipment provider (IEP) that establishes the terms and conditions for the interchange of intermodal equipment, such as containers and chassis. These agreements define each party's responsibilities for equipment inspection, maintenance, repair, and liability during the period the equipment is in the motor carrier's possession.
The FMCSA requires that interchange agreements meet certain minimum standards under its intermodal equipment interchange regulations (49 CFR Part 390). The agreement must clearly identify the parties involved, describe the equipment being interchanged, outline inspection and maintenance responsibilities, and establish procedures for reporting and addressing equipment defects. The motor carrier that takes possession of the equipment is generally responsible for ensuring it is safe and compliant with federal regulations during use.
Interchange agreements are particularly important in intermodal transportation, where containers and chassis are frequently transferred between ocean carriers, railroads, and trucking companies. These agreements help ensure that all parties understand their obligations and that equipment is properly maintained throughout the supply chain. Drivers should always conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection of intermodal equipment before accepting it under an interchange agreement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs an interchange agreement?
Motor carriers that use intermodal equipment (containers and chassis) provided by intermodal equipment providers need interchange agreements. This is common in port drayage and intermodal trucking operations where equipment is exchanged between different transportation providers.
What should an interchange agreement include?
An interchange agreement should identify the parties involved, describe the equipment, establish inspection and maintenance responsibilities, outline defect reporting procedures, and assign liability for equipment damage or safety violations during the interchange period.
Who is responsible for maintenance under an interchange agreement?
The FMCSA requires intermodal equipment providers to maintain their equipment in safe operating condition. However, the motor carrier in possession of the equipment is responsible for conducting pre-trip inspections and reporting defects. Specific maintenance responsibilities should be clearly outlined in the interchange agreement.
Related Terms
FMCSA
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
The federal agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for regulating the trucking and bus industries, with a focus on reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
USDOT Number
United States Department of Transportation Number
A unique identifier assigned by the FMCSA to commercial motor carriers operating in interstate commerce, used to track safety information and compliance.
Operating Authority
The legal permission granted by the FMCSA that allows a carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to conduct for-hire transportation operations in interstate commerce.
CDL
Commercial Driver's License
A specialized driver's license required to operate large, heavy, or hazardous material vehicles in the United States, issued by individual states under federal standards.