Old Aggregate Conveyors Skip Brakes Under New Safety Rules
Published Date: 2/19/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting March 23, 2026, portable conveyors made before 2010 and used in the aggregate industry won’t need brakes on all wheels, as long as they meet certain safety conditions. This change helps businesses by easing rules without risking safety, thanks to a request from the Michigan Aggregates Association. If anyone wants to challenge this rule, they must do so by the same date.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Brake-rule Relief for Pre-2010 Conveyors
Starting March 23, 2026, portable conveyors used in the aggregate industry that were manufactured before 2010 are exempted from the rule that each commercial motor vehicle have brakes on all wheels, as long as certain safety conditions are met (including meeting the stopping performance in 49 CFR 393.52). FMCSA says this exception will provide regulatory relief and may extend the useful lifespan of pre-2010 conveyors and generate cost savings for their owners.
Operational Conditions Required to Qualify
To use the exemption, the conveyor-plus-towing-vehicle must meet the stopping performance in 49 CFR 393.52; the towed vehicle’s axle weights must not exceed 40 percent of the towing vehicle’s axle weights; and maximum speeds are limited to 45 mph on two-lane roads and 55 mph on freeways. These rules set clear operating limits that owners/operators must follow to keep the exemption valid.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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