Equipment Rehabilitation
Transport Trailers & ISOs
Cryogenic trailers, tube trailers, MEGCs and ISO containers — back in test and back on the road.
What we do
- DOT and Transport Canada retest
- Tank, piping and coil repairs
- Brakes, axles, air ride and lights
Done through partner shops matched to your equipment — one point of contact from quote to delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Transport Trailers & ISOs questions
What inspections does an MC-338 cryogenic trailer need, and how often?
An external visual inspection every year and a pressure test every 5 years, at 1.25 times MAWP (or the re-rated or plate test pressure). MC-338 tanks are exempt from the internal visual, leakage and thickness tests in the periodic table.
Source: 49 CFR 180.407
My trailer was in an accident or sat parked a long time. Does it need testing first?
Yes — if it shows dents, cuts, gouges, corrosion or leaks, has damage that may affect it, or has been out of hazmat service a year or more, it must be tested and inspected before use. MC-338 repairs must be done by a National Board R-stamp shop registered with PHMSA, with shell or head welding certified by a Registered Inspector.
Sources: 49 CFR 180.407 · 49 CFR 180.413
How often do tube trailer tubes need requalifying?
DOT 3AAX and 3T tubes are requalified every 5 years, at a minimum of 5/3 of service pressure (3T also allows ultrasonic examination). Ultrasonic requalification must follow CGA C-20, and only a requalifier with current PHMSA approval may do and mark it.
Sources: 49 CFR 180.209 · 49 CFR 180.205
What happens if a tube fails its retest?
It's rejected or condemned. A tube is condemned if, among other things, it leaks through the wall, shows cracking, or its permanent expansion exceeds 10% of total expansion. Condemned tubes are stamped (or made unable to hold pressure) and the owner is notified in writing that it can't be filled.
Source: 49 CFR 180.205
How often does a cryogenic ISO tank container need inspection?
UN portable tanks need a full periodic inspection at least every 5 years and an intermediate one at least every 2.5 years. Tanks for refrigerated liquefied gases can skip the 5-year internal inspection and hydraulic test if they were pressure tested with inert gas to at least 1.3 times design pressure before first service. Damage or leaks trigger an exceptional inspection.
Source: 49 CFR 180.605
Does the trailer itself need an annual DOT inspection?
Yes. Every trailer must pass a periodic inspection at least every 12 months, with proof kept on the vehicle (a decal is allowed). It covers brakes, coupling devices, lighting, suspension, frame, tires, wheels and rims, and the rear impact guard.
Sources: 49 CFR 396.17 · Appendix A to Part 396
Can an MC-338 trailer be switched to a different product?
It depends on the manufacturer and how it was built and marked — contact the manufacturer before changing service. A tank can't be loaded with a liquid colder than its design service temperature, the spec plate says whether it's insulated for oxygen service, and oxygen or flammable service needs verified cleanliness after the tank is opened. On LNG specifically: that call is ours, not a manufacturer or code requirement — we treat tanks built for LNG as staying in LNG service.
Sources: 49 CFR 173.318 · 49 CFR 178.338-18 · 49 CFR 180.407
What about trailers and tanks running in Canada?
Canadian highway tanks follow CSA B620 (repair, testing, inspection, periodic retest and marking), with CSA B622 covering selection and use for gases. Facilities doing that work must be registered with Transport Canada.
Sources: Transport Canada — CSA B620 · Transport Canada FAQ
Answers are general guidance, with sources linked so you can check them. Your equipment's manufacturer and the rules that apply to your site always come first.
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