To the best of my knowledge, reflective red and white DOT C2 tape or reflectors, known as conspicuity treatment, are not mandatory for single-unit box trucks. FMVSS 108 is a regulation for Tractor Trailer Rigs. Single-unit trucks or box trucks are not covered by this regulation. An effort began within the NHTSA in 2015 to add single-unit trucks (straight trucks) to the regulation via an update to FMVSS 108; however, it appears as though this effort was closed due to the inability of the NHTSA to show sufficient effectiveness to warrant the cost.
With this being said, reflective DOT C2 tape would certainly enhance the visibility of a straight box truck, and this improvement in visibility would likely reduce the chances of a collision. Since box trucks are often quite large, they pose many of the same dangers to other vehicles that full size semi trucks do. So marking them in the same manner makes sense.
Why You Should Consider Adding Reflective Tape Anyway
Even though DOT C2 tape is not legally required on straight box trucks, there are several compelling reasons to apply it voluntarily. First, visibility is directly tied to accident prevention. A box truck parked on the shoulder of a road at night or in foggy conditions is extremely difficult for approaching drivers to see without reflective markings. Adding alternating red and white conspicuity tape along the sides and rear of the vehicle makes it immediately recognizable from hundreds of feet away. Studies on the safety benefits of reflective contour markings have demonstrated a clear reduction in side and rear collisions on vehicles that are properly marked.
Second, applying reflective tape to a box truck can reduce liability in the event of an accident. If another vehicle strikes an unmarked box truck at night, the truck owner could face questions about whether reasonable steps were taken to make the vehicle visible. Having conspicuity tape installed demonstrates a proactive commitment to safety, which can be an important factor in legal proceedings.
How to Apply DOT C2 Tape to a Box Truck
If you choose to apply DOT C2 reflective tape to a straight box truck, follow the same general placement guidelines used for tractor trailers. Apply alternating red and white strips along the lower rear of the vehicle and along the lower portion of each side. The tape should be placed as close to horizontal as possible and should outline the full width and length of the vehicle. For the rear, a strip across the bottom and up each side creates a clear outline of the vehicle’s profile. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before application, and use a squeegee to press the tape firmly into place. For details on the specific federal requirements that apply to trailers, see our article on FMCSA conspicuity requirements for commercial motor vehicles.
Here is a full article on DOT Tape Requirements for Box or Straight Trucks. For more information, go to www.tapefinder.com and click on the contact link at the top of the page.
