Since motorcycles began to be used for transportation, both businesses and individuals have gained more convenience and agility in their routines. However, riders who wish to make deliveries need to follow a series of regulations established by the National Traffic Council for greater safety in the activity. For those who will be working with a motorcycle, it’s worth checking what is allowed and what is not allowed in the transportation of loads.
What is allowed: permitted transportation devices and their rules of use
All regulations governing the transportation of cargo via motorcycle are outlined in Resolution No. 356/2010 by CONTRAN. It is there that details and rules for items such as the type of motorcycle trunk, weight and size of the trunk, and permitted reflective stickers are specified.
An initial requirement that many people may be unaware of is the specific course required for working with deliveries. If the cargo transportation activity is frequent and remunerated, whether it involves food, documents, or various items, the rider needs to undergo a training course in motorcycle freight.
As for cargo transportation devices, the well-known motorcycle trunks, the permitted models are: trunk, saddlebags (or side cases), and rack. The use of a sidecar for transporting mineral water jugs, with a maximum capacity of 20 liters, is also allowed. Both the device and the load cannot compromise the rider’s visibility in relation to the rearview mirrors.
In the case of the motorcycle trunk, the regulation stipulates that it should be a maximum of 60 cm wide, as long as it does not exceed the inner edges of the rearview mirrors. This measurement is the same as considered for the length limit, in this case, not exceeding the rear end of the vehicle. Finally, the motorcycle box cannot be more than 70 cm in height at its central base.
All models of plastic trunks from iCbras comply with CONTRAN’s measurement standards.
For saddlebags, which are the side bags commonly used in trips, the rule is to respect the maximum weight specified in the vehicle manual, and the height should not exceed the seat height. As for the rack, which has also been widely used for motorcycle transport, it has a maximum width of 70 cm, and the load must adhere to the dimensions of the support. In the case of the rack, the height of what is loaded should not exceed 40 cm from its central base.
Regardless of the type of motorcycle trunk you choose, all must adhere to the maximum dimensions and weights specified in the vehicle manual. Respecting the recommended limits is crucial because excess weight can affect the brakes and cause cracks in the motorcycle’s structure, both of which pose significant risks to the rider.
Is required: reflective strips
For those who will be riding with a motorcycle trunk or another type of cargo device, be aware that it is mandatory to use reflective strips. Their main function is to enhance the visibility of your motorcycle in traffic, allowing other drivers to see your vehicle. This item provides more safety for the motorcyclist, especially during nighttime journeys.
Furthermore, whether you are making deliveries with a plastic box for motorcycles or using the vehicle solely for transportation, it is mandatory to wear a helmet and appropriate clothing with reflective strips. In the CONTRAN resolution, you can find all the details regarding the use of these strips.
What is not allowed: prohibited items
While some products are allowed for transport by following certain regulations, others are completely prohibited. This is the case for flammable or toxic fuels, with the exception of gas cylinders. In this case, the motorcyclist can only carry cylinders with a maximum load of 13 kg, in a specific device for this type of delivery.
Another prohibited item is the fuel canister on motorcycles used for passenger transport. In other words, if you are a ‘mototaxi’ rider, you cannot have a canister for reserve fuel, as it may pose serious risks to those sitting at the back of the motorcycle.
This type of canister is also prohibited for those who deliver goods or provide community street services. For those with a motorcycle with low fuel capacity and do not use it as a work tool, it is possible to use a fuel canister, provided it is made of specific material and undergoes verification by Inmetro.
All these items, from the plastic box for motorcycles, through the retroreflective strips, to the guidelines in the vehicle manual, help the rider have more safety on their journeys. Always follow the CONTRAN regulations and choose suppliers that use these metrics in the manufacture of cargo devices.