The Uniform Intermodal Interchange & Facilities Access Agreement (UIIA) provides uniform industry processes and procedures for the exchange of intermodal equipment between trucking companies, railroads, companies that lease equipment, and ocean carriers. As such, it behooves individuals within the transportation industry and UIIA participants to stay up to date with the latest changes at the UIIA.
Tire Tread Damage
Effective September 19, 2016, the UIIA revised its definition for slid flat tire damage. The new definition indicates a tire experienced flat tire damage if the removed tread wore down to 2/32 of an inch or less in the flat area. This only holds true if the unaffected tread is greater than 4/32 of an inch.
This type of damage occurs when a driver brakes suddenly or when a vehicle begins to slide out of the driver’s control. It often leaves behind skid marks on the asphalt. Proper tire maintenance and replacement improve safety, so inspect your tires for tread wear and damage often.
Proposed Changes
The Intermodal Interchange Executive Committee (IIEC) held a meeting on September 20, 2016. The committee put forth two UIIA modifications with unanimous approval.
Binding Arbitration Guidelines
The IIEC proposed changes to Item D.10 under their binding arbitration guidelines. For claims in regards to maintenance and repair, the invoicing party must provide an Equipment Interchange Receipt or Recorded Image from the time of the interchange. It must clearly show the condition of the equipment. If the individual sending the invoice cannot produce either of these documents, the party receiving the invoice is not responsible.
Free Days, Per Diem, Container Use, Chassis Use/Rental and/or Storage/Ocean Demurrage
The provider has 60 days from returning equipment to invoice the motor carrier for Per Diem, Container Use, Chassis Use/Rental and/or Storage/Ocean Demurrage charges. If the provider fails to invoice the motor carrier in this period, they forfeit the cost.
However, if the provider sends the invoice to the wrong party, they can re-invoice the correct motor carrier. They have 30 days from when the incorrect party submits a charge dispute or they can work within the original 60 days, whichever is later. However, this window is not indefinite. The provider can only recoup expenses for an incorrectly billed charge if they resubmit the invoice within 90 days of returning the equipment.
The proposed changes above are open to public commentary through October 31, 2016.