Rule zero: pesticides never ride in the passenger cab. Vapors, spills in a closed space, and a crash that mixes people and concentrate are all avoidable by using the bed or a trailer.
Loading the truck
- Original, labeled containers only — never a repurposed jug.
- Upright, blocked/strapped so nothing shifts, rolls, or tips.
- Separate from food, feed, seed, and fertilizer; don't haul with livestock.
- Protect from rain and sun; extreme heat degrades some products and pressurizes containers.
- Carry labels/SDS, plus your spill kit.
When DOT hazmat rules bite
Farmers hauling their own product for their own operation often get meaningful exemptions. A for-hire commercial applicator usually does not. Quantity and hazard class can trigger placarding and a hazmat endorsement; agricultural exemptions carry mileage and vehicle conditions. Charging customers and hauling drums? Verify with your state DOT — the fines dwarf the compliance cost.
If you spill on the road
- Stop safely, protect the scene, PPE on before approaching.
- Keep it out of storm drains and ditches — dike with absorbent.
- Call 911 for anything significant; CHEMTREC (1-800-424-9300) for handling guidance; your state agency for reporting.
- Do not wash it down. Contain, collect, dispose properly.
Quick pre-trip check
- Containers sealed, labeled, upright, secured
- Nothing incompatible riding together
- Spill kit + fire extinguisher aboard
- SDS/labels accessible
- Route avoids unnecessary town centers and water crossings when practical
General guidance; DOT hazmat rules and agricultural exemptions are detail-heavy — confirm your situation with state DOT/agency. Related: RUP rules.
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