Yes, garbage is generally classified as an exempt commodity under federal regulations. This classification has specific implications for motor carriers involved in its transportation.
Understanding Exempt Commodities
An exempt commodity refers to certain types of goods whose transportation does not require carriers to obtain specific operating authority from the Department of Transportation (DOT). This exemption simplifies regulatory requirements for the transport of these particular items.
What Defines an Exempt Commodity?
Exempt commodities are primarily non-manufactured goods. The rationale behind this exemption is often tied to the basic, unprocessed nature of the materials, which may present different regulatory considerations compared to manufactured products.
Examples of Exempt Commodities
While the list of exempt commodities can be extensive and subject to specific regulatory interpretations, common examples often include:
- Agricultural products: Raw, unprocessed farm goods.
- Dirt: Unprocessed soil or earth.
- Garbage: Waste materials, particularly those in an unprocessed state.
Implications for Carriers
For motor carriers, the classification of garbage as an exempt commodity means they might be considered an exempt carrier if they only transport such goods. This allows them to operate without applying for the standard DOT operating authority that other carriers, transporting non-exempt commodities, are required to possess. This distinction is defined by federal law, specifically under 49 U.S.C 13506.
In essence, carrying only exempt commodities like garbage allows certain transporters to operate under a different set of regulatory guidelines, reducing administrative burdens related to federal operating authority.
