,. 

'" 

United Stat<;)s 

Department of 

Agriculture 

AgricUltural 

Marketing 

Service 

Fruit and 

Vegetable 

Programs 

Fresh Products 

. Branch 

January 1966 

:General 

Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions 

Introduction 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

PART I 

Fundamental Principles of Inspection 

Strict Adherence to Directions 

Authority for the Inspection Service 

Policy for Inspections of Imported/Interstate Shipments 

Inspectors Have No Regulatory Authority 

Relation of the Inspector to the Trade 

Relation of the Inspector with other Inspectors 

Rules of Conduct for Inspectors 

Borrowers 

Financial.l nterest of Inspectors 

Discreet Speech 

Observance of "No Smoking• Rules 

Political Activity 

Reporting Alleged or Suspected Bribery Attempts 

Relation of the Inspector to the Trade-Rules of Conduct 

Relation of Inspectors to Carriers 

Breaking of Seals and Resealing Containers] 

. Outside Temperatures 

Instructions Relative to Prevention of Injuries 

Precautions When Handling Packages 

Working in Classification Yards 

Overhead Wires 

Opening Carrier Doors 

Entering and Leaving Carriers and Inspection Bunkers 

Entering Carriers Subject to Gaseous Elements 

Danger of Being Locked in Carriers 

Climbing into Carriers 

Cold Storages 

PARAGRAPH(S) 

NUMBERS 

1 

2-4 

5-7 

8-9 

10 

11. 

12-17 

18-20 

21 -26 

22 

23 

24 

25 

26 

27-29 

30-35 

36-41 

37-41 

42-43 

44-64 

45-48 

49 

50 

51 

52 

53-55 

56 

57-60 

61 
Revised, March 2006, HU-151-6(a) 

Page II, Table Of Contents, General Market 

Inspection Instructions, April 1988 

II 

When Inspection will Jeopardize Health or Safety 

First Aid 

Inspection Equipment 

Scales 

Thermometers 

Lights . . ~ !" '. ; • ' ~ 

For Whom May Inspections Be Made 

Application for Inspection 

Recording Applications 

Refusing to Inspect 

Making False Use of Official Certificate Marks or Other 

Identification 

What the Certificate Covers 

Prima Facie Evidence 

Making the Inspection 

Representative Samples 

Using of ManifestRecords · 

Deceptive Loading . 

Number of Samples 

Size of Samples and Average Sample Scorings 

Additional Samples 

Examine Specimens from Different Places in Container 

When Consumer Package is Sample for Inspection 

•••• Cutting Specimens Policies and Procedures 

Recooperlng Loads and Packages 

Furnishing Information on Shipping Point Inspections 

Inspector's Notes 

Reinspection and Marking Carriers 

Determining the Kind of Inspection to Make 

PARAGRAPH(S) 

NUMBERS 

62 

63-64 

65-70 

66 

67-68 

69-70 

71 -73 

74-77 

78 

79-80 

81 

82-83 

.84 

85-99 

85 

86 

87 

88 

89-90 

91 -92 

93-94 

.95-96 

97- 97e **** 

98-99 

100 

101 

102-105 

106-109 
TABIE OF CCNl'ENl'S 

PARI' I 

Paragraph 

Numbers 

nrmooucrrrn ........................ \ ........................ . 

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF INSPECTION ••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

A!JlliORITY FDR THE INSPECTIOO SERVICE ••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

RELATICNSHIP OF THE lliSPECI'OR ..•...•.•••••.•••••. · •••••••••••• 

Relationship of the Inspector to the State •••••••••••••• 

Relationship of the Inspector to the Federal Dept •••••• 

Licensee's Persormel Record Cards ..........•....•..... 

F'edera.l Ucense Ca.I'd ••.••.••••••.•••••••••• ...•••••••• 

Suspension or Revocation or License •••••••••••••••••• 

Inspectors Have no Ref9.1latory Authority •••••••••••••• 

Relation of the Inspector to the Trade •••••••••••••••••• 

Relation of the Inspector with Other Inspectors ••••••••• 

RULES OF CONDUCT POR INSPECTORS ....••••••.••••••..••.••.••••. 

Bol""""()\t/el"'S • ........................ · ••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Financial Interest of Inspectors ......................... . Discreet Speech . ................ · ..•.........•......•.... 

Observance of "No Srooking" Rules ..••••••••••••••••••.••• 

Political Activity ..................................... . 

'1fl'.JERAL INS'I'RUCI'IOOS • .••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Ret\lsing to Inspect .•.........•••.•..••..•..•.•...••....• 

?rima. Facie Evidence . ....• , ....................... , .... . 

At temp tin~ Too Many Inspections .•..............•.... ..... Or-d.er of InspectiCll'lS . ....••...•.•••.•..•••••...••..•••••. 

. Responsibility for Condition of Load •••••••••••••••••••• 

Breaking Seals and Resealing Cars ••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Precaution A~t Ir1jUI'Y •• •.••••••••••••••••• ~ •••••••••• 

State Serlal lot Nurnbei'S . ...• ; •......•.•.....•.•.......• 

Certificates Issued 1n Connection with the terms or ~eting Ag:reenents . ......•............•..........•..• 

Inspections Billed to Federal A~ncies •••••••••••••••••• 

Who is Entitled to Information from Score Sheets •••••••• 

1 

2 ll 

5 9 

10- 36 

10·- 11 

12 25 

lll 15 

16 23 

2ll 

25 

26 33 

3ll 36 

37 ll2 

38 

39 

llo 

Ill 

ll2 

ll3 78 

ll3 ll4 

45 47 

48 

49 50 

51 

52 5.1 

5ll 57 

58 59 

60 

61 

62 
II 

Paragr-aph 

Nlll!lbers 

Control of Copies of Market CertificatP.s .••••••••••••••• 63 

Correspondence Related to Inspections ••..•.•• ; •• , ••.•••• 6~ 

Signing the Certificate . ............... ~ . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 65 

Signature by Supervising Inspectors •••.••••••••.•••••••• 66- 68 

PO'n'er of At tomey . ...... , .. ., ........... · ..... ., . . . • . . . . . . . 69 

Bla~ Certificates Not to be Given the Public ••••••••••• 70 

Marking False Use of Official Certificates, Marks or 

Other Identification . ..... ', ...•................ , . , . . . . . . 71 - 72 

Identity Lost When Lot is Repacked or Reconditioned ••••• 73 

Issuing Two Certificates en Same Car at Shipping Point •• 74 ~'l.a.r"king of C8.!"'S. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 75 - 77 

Inspection Service Car Seals .••..•..•• : •••.•••.••.••• ~·· 78 

R.ED'lSPEC"riOOS lli THE MARKETS, ••• · ............................... 79 - 85 

Condition and Confirmation Inspections •••••••••••.•••••• 79- So 

Appeal In..spect!oos . ................................... , . . 81 - 84 

Wiring at Request of Shippers ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 85 

~:lliGRA.rJE> •••••• ~ ............................................... 86 - 91 

iJIVDlr. OF TESTIIo-IY BY INSPECTORS ........ ; ............... , ... 92 - 99 

P'..DD AND DRUG PACKAGE MARKING REQUIREM.;}ll'S ................... 100 - 109 

PERISHABlE AGRICULTURAL OOMMJDITIES ACJr ••••••••••.••••••• , ••• 

Inqtlirles . ............................................. . rvti.s br-andi.rlg • ••••......••••••••.•••••••••••••••••••••••.•• 

Notify the Regulatory Branch of.Misbrandin~ Cases ••••••• 

PACA RUling 01 Grade and Size llm'kings ••• ~ •••••••••••••• 

Off -Cour1t Under PACA . ••.•.••••...••• '! ••• • ........ , , •••••• 

CIERI CAL AND OFFICE INSTRUCTIOO REGARDING CERI'IFICATES ••••••• 

'IYping the Certificate . ..............•••...•.•.......... 

H::111dwritten Certificates ...•.....•....••...•••.... ~ ..... 

Ce!'ti ficate Nwnbei'S . ......••.•••..•••••.•••••••.••.•••... 

'Ja.te • ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Address of Applicant and Shipper •••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Arrangement of Text on the Certificate •••••••••••••••••• ~n.r Initials and N1..ll'TDer .. ........................... · ...•.•. 

110 - 119 

110 - 111 

112 - 114 

115 

116 - 119 

118 

120 - 145 

120 - 121 

122 

123 - 127 

128 

129 

130 

131 

• 

• 
III 

Paragraph 

Nur!Ders 

Worcls to be capitalized . ................................ . Apoo t ~he ft1a:r\tS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • , • • , • 

F1gu.res, PercentA.ge Marks • ••••••••••••••••••••••• ~ • , ••• , 

Sizes ....... · . · . · · · · • · · · • ·· • · · • · · · · · · • · • • • • • · · · · • · · · · · . · · AbbreviaticrlS .....••.•..•.••••••••.•.••...•••••••••..••.. 

tJrtused Heading;s .•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• , ••••••••• 

Place for Signature of the Inspector. , •• , • , ·, , , • , , • , , • , , , Irl.1 tiali.rlg by 'I';ypis t ................................... . Comparing TYPed Certificate with Inspector's Notes •••••• 

When More Space Needed an the Certificate ••••••••••.•••• 

L'3SUANCE AND DISTRIBt!I'IOO OF COPIES OF INSPECTIOO 

132 - 133 

1311 

135 

136 

137 

13tl 

139 

1110 

1111 - 142 

143 - 145 

c:E:J1'11IFIC~ .. ..•...•.••••••.••.•.•..•••••••• I •••••••••••••• 146 ~ 153 

CORRECriNG, VOIDING AND SUPERSEDDIG CEFn'IFICA'IES.,.,, •• ,., ••• 154 - 166 

Minor Corrections Made in the Course of Typin~ or Prior 

to Iss\J.Bl1ce . ...........•.••.....•. ·. . • . • • . • • . • . . • • . . . • . . 15'5 

Correction of Material Errors Prior to Issuance ••• ,., ••• 156 

Corrections After Issuance •.....•..••...•....•.••.•.•..• 157- 160 

Signing or Initialing Corrections ••••••••••••••••••••••• 161 

Notice of Correction Report •••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 162- 164 

Corrections Outside the Originating District •••••••••••• 165- 166 

F Uf{NISH.lliG REroRrS .. .••••••.....•.•• ·• •••.••• , •••.• -........... 167 - 169 

~L'3HDIG ADDITIOOAL CERTIFICATE COPIES.. .. .. • • .. .. .. • .. .. .. 170 - 171 

Lost Original, Charge for Extra Copies •••••••••••••••••• 172- 173 

~ISH DIG CERTIFIED COPIES OF CERTIFICATES ••• , ••• , , •••••••• , 17 4 

liANDLING CERTIFICATION SUPPLIES •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 175- 182 

Accounting for Certificate Forms •••••••••••••••••••••••• 175- 176 

Distribution of Certification Supplies •••••••••••••••••• 177- 180 

Keep Accountable Forms in Locked Sto~ •••••••••••••••• 181 

Preservation of Certificate Files •••••••••••••••••••••• 182 

PARI' II 

MAKDIG 'IHE INSPECTICN, KEEPING NOIF.S, ISSUING REPORI'S ........ 183 - 251 

SaJ'Yll)ling. • . . . . . . . • • • . . • . . . . . • • . • • . • • . . • . • • • . . • • . • • . • . . . • 18'3 - 199 

Samples From Open Containers ...••••.••.••••••.••••..•. 187 -
rv 

Paragraph 

Numbere 

Observations Prior to Packin~..... • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 188 

Nt.lll'ber of S~ l.es . ...............•... , .......... , . • . . • 18q 

r.ots Borctering on the Tolerance ••••••••••••••••••••••• 190 

Additional Samples ...... o •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••.• , 191 

Size or Samples ....... , ........... , ...•......... , ..... 192 - 194 

Averasr;e Satnple Scorings. · ............................... 1.9'5 

When Contents of Consumer Pack~ is the Unit for 

Inspect1oo........... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196 

Sampling from Packin~ Bins .•.....•.......•..•.••••.•.. 197 

Cutting Specirrens ...................••...... , ...... ~ .. 198 

Avoid Causin~ Inconvenience in Making Insoections ••••• 199 

Inspector's Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . 200 - 225 

Preparin;: t:he Score Sheet . ................... ~ .... , • . • . . 202 

Recording. the Scorings ... ..... , ...•..•..•......•. ".......... 203 - 204 

Symbols Sur~sted For Use on Score Sheets ••••••••••••••• 20~- 208 

Entries Under the Headinp;:s Pack, Size, Colo:r, Shape, etc 20g 

Identifyinp; the Product and Container ••••••••••••••••••• 210 

Check I term at Botton of Score Sheet ••••••••••••••••••• ·• 211 

Recordine; the car Nl.Ul't>er ....................... ..- ............... ·-· •••••••• 212 - 213 

Recording Growers' Marks or Lot Numbers ••••••••••••••••• 214- 215 

Two or More Products In a Car... . . . . • . . • • • . . .. . . . . . . .. . • . . . 216 

Time of Scores on No-te Sheets ............................ 217 

Score Sheets for Combination Grade or Unclassified Lots. 21R Recordi.rl~ Cle-fects ........................... .• _ ................ ·• ....... 219 - 220 

Reco!"d.1ng Pack. • • • • • .. • • • • • • .. .. .. • .. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 221 

Recording Items ~ot Shown on the Certificate.; •••••••••• 222 

Misrepresentations an Score Sheets •••••••••••••••••••••• 223 

GivinP.: Cut Infoi"''l\3.tion frcrn Score Sheets •••••••••••••••• 224 - 225 

ISSUlliG PREUM]}lARY REPORrS: . . . .. • . .. • .. . . .. . . .. . . . • • • • . • . • • .. .. .. . .. • • .. • . • 226 - 230 

REPORTING r::t:I.AYED LOADING .................................................. 231 - 232 

INSPECTION COMPLETED ON A LATER DATE ....••...........•...•..•••... 233 

STATEMENTS SUPPLEMENTING CERTIFICATES ••.•••••••••••••••••••••••••• 234 

COP.:ffiCTICNS OF INSPECI'OR Is NOlES AND CERI'IFICATES ................. 235 - 239 

PREPARATION OF THE LONGrUV{D DRAFT ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• , ••• 240- 241 

PREPARATial OF FV-184 1s AND SHORT OR TRUCK FOR-I cr:RTIFICA'IBS •••••• 242 - 251_ 
v 

Paragraph., 

NI.Jl'Tbers 

Conm:xl.ity Infonnatioo 'nlat Must be Reported en FV-184 

Ce:l"tificates . ........................................ . 244 

245 

?.~7 

. Report1ng Additional Information on FV-184 Certificates. 

Worksheet Information Fbr FV-184•s ••••••••••••••••••••• 

Correcting Errors en FV-184 Certificates •••••••••••.••.• • -2119 

PARI' III 

246 

2~8 

251 

TiiE c:E:RI'IFICA'I'E •. •••••••••••••••.•••••••••••..•••••••••••.••• 252 

MODIFYING CERTIFICATE HEADINGS ••••• .......................... CERl'IFICA'IE NUM:lER • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

INSPECTIO'l POINT •• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

KIND OF CAR ••••••• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 

CAR INrriALS AND NUMBER •.•••.•.••••. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

DUTS Nor IDENTIFIED BY CAR NUMBER •••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Lots Identified by Truck NUJ'Ii:>ers .•••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Lots Identified by State Lot or other Stamps •••••••••••• 

Lots With No Lot Identification ••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

INSPECTION BEGUN- OOMPLErED ••••••.•••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Truck Lot Certificates Other 'nlan FV-184's •• ............ 

APPUCANT •• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SiiiP~ . ..•......••..•..........••.....................•... 

ro.lDI'r!Ctl OF CAR •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••.••••••• • ••• • • • • • 

l)efinitioo or 'I'ernJS •• •••••••.••.•••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

· B Eild· ••••••••••••••••••••••.••••••.•••.•• . .......... . A E:rld • •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• · •• 

"R" Side .or Rigtlt Side . .. · .............. . . ........... . "L" Side or Left Side •.••.••••.••••••••. . ........... . Bt.lllkei'S • • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ..• 

'I'a.n1<s ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••. • 

Bunker Bulkheads .••••••.• · .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .• . . . . . . . . . . . Collapsible Bunkers •••••••• . . . . . . . . ................. . 

253 

255 

256 

257 

258 

260 

261 

267 

269 

254 

259 

269 

266 

268 

270 - 277 

277 

278 

279 

280 - 308 

280 

281 

282 

283 

284 

285 

286 

287 

288 
VI 

Paragraph 

Nurrbers 

Hatches .•••.•• . ................ ., .................... . Hatch Covers •• • ••••••••••••••• "' ••••••• 4! •••••••••••••• 

Plugs . .... ~ ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............. Amount of Ice. . ......... ' ........................... . Dr'a.in Pipes, Dr'ains , lfi"aps ••• • ••••• • •••• • • • ••••••••••• 

Floor Racks ..•... e•• ............................. . .. Ribbed Floor •••••••• . . . . . . . •. . . .• ................. . .. . False Floor, False Walls . ....... o .............. . . . . . . . Paper Uning . ........................................ . 

Pads and Straw, Hay or Shredded Paper Beddinp; •••••••• 

1-leatere •••••••.•••••••••••••••••••••••• , .............. . 

l:X:>oNay • " • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ~~~: • • • • • • • 

Space Between J)cx)I"S • ............................. , ••••• 

Doorways Boarded Across or Boards Across Doorway. • ••• 

[')c>o:rways Slatted. . . . • . • . . . . . . . . . • • . . . .. • . . • • . . • . . . . .. . 

Wall Oper'lings Slatted ...................... ~~ .......... . 

Vents • • • •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Ventilating Doors, Slat Doors, Screen Doors ••••••••••• 

Solid [)c)oi'S • ............................... • • ••• • • • • • • • 

Defective Equipment ••• • • • • • • • • • • • • c ••••••••••••••••••••• 

Poooucrs ................................ ~ ........•.••..•... -..•.• 

N arne of P:r1:x:h..l ct . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . • . . . . . . • • ·. • . 

Variety, Type or Description •••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Cdrlta.irlel"S, 'I':fpe or Kind •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Ce 11 at1d '!'r-ay Packs ...................................... . Consu.rr:e-r Size Packa.ges • •......•...•••.••••••.•...•••••.• 

Ce ll()J)tla.ne, Pliofilm. . . . . . .. . . . .. ., ............ ; ..•.••.. 

Brailds ........................... · · .. · . . . . . . . . . . ...... Growers' Marla! and Lot Nurrbers •••••• ............... .. Grades ar1d Sizes .••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

State Lot, Storage Lot or Other Lot .Nurrbers and 

Stencils . •.•..•...•••••..•••.••.•.••••••••.••.•• • • • • • • • 

Identification by Comparison Terms •••••••••••••••••••••• 

Quarlt1 ty Certified . ..•••••.•.•••..•.••••••••••.••••••••• 

Examples of PrOducts Statements •.•.••••••••••••••..••••• 

IJJADlliG •...................................................... 

.Wiring or Strapping . .....•.•..•.•.•••••••••••••••.•••••• 

Corldi tim of Packa.ges . .............•........•...•..•.•.. 

Warehouse and Storage Lots .•.•...••.••••••.•••.••••••••• 

Standard Terms for Descrlbing Loading and Bracil\g of 

eat'S. · ................................................... . 

289 

290 

'?9:'.. 

292 

293 

29.~ 

295 

296 

297 

29R 

299 

300 

301 

302 

303 

30~ 

305 

306 

307 

308 

309 - 337 

310 

311 

312 - 31~ 

315 

316 

317 

318 - 321 

322 

323 

324 - 327 

328 - ·330 

331 - 336 

337 

338 - 392 3~2 

3~3 

3411 

3~5 - 392 

.. 

• 
r..a.ver .••• 

Stack .••• 

Row •• •.•• 

. . 

VII 

. .................................. . . . . . . . . . . . ............... . . . . . . . . . . . . ............ . . ....................... . . ........................... . . ............... . . .. 

~irst Layer •••.••• 

Second Layer •••••••• ~tack ~~~ering ••••• 

IncC"llllplete ~.ver •••.••• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... . ..... . r;,l1,ie Row· ............................................. . 

~u~ Load ....•.•....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . Dt vided Load . . .; .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I.en¢h~tt1se I.c>adin~ . ................... ·· .........•...... 

Crosswise Wadinp; . .......•.......•.................... 

t}tlr1P;f1t l.oadin~ . .••....•....•...•..•...•..••.•..... • .•. 

F..11d to I:r,d orrset !.oa.d •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Crosswise orrset ••••••••••••••.••••..••••..•••••••.•.• 

Inverted V or Elli-s Method . ........•....•............. 

Side Stri-pped [,c)aci •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Alternately Inverted •.••.••••••••••••.••••••••••••.... 

Side Load, AlternatelY Reversed ••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Tunnel Load •••.•••••••.•••••••••••••••••• . .......... . Q1 Ailp;e •••••• • .• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • · • • ·-· 

Q1 EdQ.'e~···············~······························· Di~nal Row ...................•................•..... St~~ Row ..................• • ...•.• · .............. . t:leck !.()ad • ........................................... · •• 

I..c>ose !,Dad • ••••.•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

ten¢hwise Space . ..................................... . 

~sswise Space • •...•.••..••••••.•••••••.•...•••••• -•..• _ 

Rows Spaced ••...••••••••.•.•••••••••••••••••••.•••. 

Space at Sides ..•......... ........................ Slack.~ .......... . . ............................... . Crosswise Slack. • • • .• ................................. Space Filler . •..•..•..••••....•••..•.•. "! •••••••••••••• 

Center Brace, Center Gate, Center Bulkhead ......... · ... . 

End r,ate, FJ1d Rrace, ~d Bulkhead.~··················· 

Spacirl~ ~ ........................................ . 

Spacing Strips . ......... ~ ............................. . 

Car Strips . ..................................... · ..... . 

Vertical Str1ppirl,;z: .•..•.•.•••...•••...•.•.•••.•••.•.•• 

Incanplete I..a.ver Brace . ••.••• · ••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Step-l.frl Brace . ......•....•.•....••...••.....•••....•.• 

Btllk I..c>ad . •.•....•...•. . ......................... . V-Type Bulkhead •.••• . .............. . . .... A-~e Ventilator •••.••.••••.•.• . . .. Too Ice or Ice Over Load ••.••••• .......... . . . ... 

3116 

347 

)II A 

3hCJ 

l"il'l 

)C:l 

'39 

3'i'3 

35'1 

1'i'5 

1">6 

'3'i7 

3'iA 

)'ifJ 

361') 

3/)1 

3n2 

363 

31ill 

36'5 

3~ 

'367 

368 

36Q 

370 

371 

372 

173 

374 

375 

376 

377 

378 

379 

380 

3fll 

3A2 

383 

384 

3fl'5 

3% 

3f17 

)RFl 

)f3n 

·~r·1 - 3Q?. 
Added, October 1990, HU-108-6(a) 

Page VIII, Table of contents, General Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

VIII 

Reporting Loading In Mixed cars or Trucks 

REPORTING RANGE AND AVERAGE PERCENTAGES 

Averages 

Ranges 

Use of Fractions 

Certifying Bulk Loads 

When Small Number of Specimens in Package 

Reporting Averages on Restricted Certificates 

GENERAL QUANTITY TERMS 

PACK 

complements of Most Quantity Terms Necessary 

Uses of "Generally" 

Uses of "Mostly" 

Uses of "Remainder" 

Uses of "Approximately", "About" 

Large Proportion First 

Entire Lot must be Accounted For 

Do Not Omit Qualifying Terms 

Reporting Fractional Percentages 

Very Tight 

Level Full 

Tight or Well Filled 

Fairly Tight or Fairly Well Filled 

Slack 

In Bulk or Sacks 

Cell and Tray Packs 

Bulge 

How to Judge Tightness of Fill 

Arrangement in Layers 

Straight Pack 

Diagonal Pack 

Off-Set Pack 

Bridge Pack 

  Reporting Gross or Net Weight of containers 

** **Certifying Weights of Products in Bulk Bins 

Pack a Factor of Condition 

Paragraph 

Numbers 

393 

394-404 

394-395 

396-398 

399-401 

402 

403 

404. 

405-422 

406-407 

408-411 

412-414 

415 

416-418 

419 

420 

421 

422 

423-449 

427 

428 

429 

430 

431 

432 

433 

434 

435-43.6 

437-441 

438 

439 

440 

441 

442-448c ,.,.,.,. 

448c**·** 

449 

• 

• 
IX 

Paragraph 

Nl.l!TD e rs 

SIZE: •...•...•. ·•··••••····•••···· • • • • • • • · • · · • • · • • • • • • · · · •..... lJ?O - ~59 Ra.&"'l~ of Size . ........................................ , . 451 

"fvk>st ly". . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45? 

Reporting Undersize Withir. or Well Within Tolerance ••.•. liS3 - 456 

Reporting CoLm ts or Packs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4) 7 

Btll1chin~ ... ............•...••...................... ~ .. ~ .. "458 

Standard Pack, Standard Bunching, etc ............ : •••..• 4?9 

QU~'I'Y mo ~rrrrn ........................... · ............ . catali ty (de fined) ..................... -....•.........• , .. . 

Condition . ( de fined) ................. , .................. . 

Orade and St~dard (defined) .•...••......•.••...•.••.... 

[)escil'f,)ti ve terms ........•........•••.. ~ ...•..•.......... 

Reportin~ Quality and Condition Factors Which Do Not 

Af'fect t1rade . .. _ ............. ! •••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Color ........ · .....••................•..•.............. 

r.'lclturi ty . ............. · ... ." ........... ~ ............... , 

Distinction Between Mature and Ripe ••••••••••••••••••• 

Distinction Between r.round Color and Varietal Color ••• 

Variation of Maturity or Color in T.ot Should be Shown. 

Polic.v in Describing Freshness and Firnness ••••••••••• 

Gmde t:::ef~cts .. 4 4 ••••• 4 .. 4 4 •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

_ C'reneral Policy in Describing Defects and Irregular 

Condi tioos . .........•.•.......... · ....•.•...••..••... _. 

Tolerances . ............................................ . 

Orade 'I\:>lei'8l'lces • ••• _ .................................. . 

ContaJ.ner or Package ToleranceS ....................... . 

cne Defective Specirren Allowed in a Package ••••••.•• 

Reporting Defects Within Tolerance •.••••••.•••••••.•.. 

Grade Defects Within Tolerance •••••.•••••••••••••.•• 

Grade Defects Aver~ Within TOlerance ••••••••.••••• 

Grade Defects Well Within Tolerance •••••••••••..•••. 

Grade Defects Each Lot Within Tolerance ............. .. 

Reporting Defects Exceeding TOlerances •••••••••••••••• 

Reporting Defects on-Percentage U.S. No. 1 Q.lality.; .. 

Counting Defective Specimens More Than Once ••••••••.•••• 

Reporting Defects of Camereial and Corri:Jination Grades •• 

Reporting the Higher Grade in canbinaticn Grades •••••••• 

Dirt or Washed and Unwashed Root Products ••••••••••••••• 

Scoring Loose . Dirt in Containers of Root Crops •••••••••• 

"Freezing Injucy . .• , ............ ~ .•........•.•.......•.. • •.. 

ll60 - '521 

461 

462 

ll63 - 464 

46'5 - 477 

ll67 

ll68 - 472 

473 

474 

475 

1!76 

ll77 

478 - 490 

1!8'5 - 1190 

491 - '502 49~ 

493 

494 

495 

496 

497 

498 - 499 

'500 

501 

502 

503 - 504 

505 

506 

507 

508 - '510 

511 - 513 
X 

Paragraph 

Nunt>era 

~cey ........••.. · · · · ...... · •............•.............. 514 - 520 

Reporting Soft Rot Separately ••••••••••.•••••••••••••• 516 

Reporting Percentages of Decay ••••••••••••••••••.••••• 517- 519 

Determining Percentages of Decay When Specinens are 

Excessively Deteriorated ...•....••..•.•••••.••..••.•• 520 

I.a.tent ~fects . ............... ........ _ ~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52l _ 

\IE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . .• . . • . . . . • . • • • • • • . . • . . . . . 522 -· 566 

Supplemental Grade Statements ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 524 

r.rade on Restricted Certificates........................ 525 

When No Established Grade ...•.•••.••.••••••••••••••••••• 526 

Certification of Shipper's Brand Grades ••••••••••••••••• 527 

Grade Statements Qualified as to Size .................... 528 

"Unless Othewise Specified" .•.•.•••.. -. . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . 529 

No Size L1m1tat1.cxi Specified in the Grade. • • • • • • • • • • • • 530 

Small, Medium, Large, Very ~. Extra Large ......... 531 - 532 

Size Marks Required on Containers by Standards •••••••• 533 

Special Grade Desi.e.pa.tioos ...••.. . • ......•.. ; .....•....•. 534 - 537 

Certifying Standard Pack, Standa.rd Bunching, etc. in 

Grade Staterre-nt . .•...•.••.•••..•.•. • . • • • • . • • • • . • . • • • . . • • 538 

Use of "As ~~~ •.••.••.•••••••••••••••.•••••. • •••••••• 539 

Certifying Corrtlination or Camercial Grades ............. 540 - 541 Reportin~ Lots that Are Out of Grade •••••••••••••••••••• 5~2 

Reporting Percentages ot' u. s. No. 1 Quality ............ 5~~ - 5~4 

Report1n~~; Grade in Approx1mate Percent~s. • • • • • • • • • • • • • 511c; - 5!18 

'lrades With "Unless otherwise Specified' Clauses •••••••• 549 

When Percentage of U.S. No. 1 Quality Below 50%.; ••••••• 550 

Container Tolerances Do Not L1m1t Percentage of u.s. 

No. 1. • • . • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 551 

Him Percentages of U. S. No. 1 Quality ................ 552 

Serious Defects of a Progressive Nature Must. be Reported 

in Connection With Grade Statements on Percentage Lots. 553 - 555 

Reporting Percentages of U.S. No.2 Quality •••••••••••• 556 

Reporting Percentages of U.S. Fancy Grade •••••••••••••• 557 

Instructions for Reporting U. s. Fancy and U. S. No. 2 

OJ,ali ty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . • . . . . 558 

Certifying Percentage of Grade A Quality on Consllller 

G:r-a.des. • • • • • .. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 559 

Detennining Weimted Averages of u. s. No. 1 or other 

Grade QJall ty_. . . • . • . • • • • • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • ';60 - 561 

Reportin~ Overgrade Stock 1n a Lot ••• : •••••••••••••••••• 562- 565 

When a Lot l"eets a H1i!1!er Grade Than t·larked. • • • • • • • • • • • • 566 
X! 

Paragraph 

NUilt:lers 

~-......... ~ .......................................... . 

RESTRICIED CERTIFICATES • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............ . Exa.rrples • •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ....... Last or Loading Not Inspected •••••••.••••.••••••.•••••• 

Restricting Certit'icate to Certain Marks, Varietit>:s or 

Gmdes ••••••••..••••• · •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

Restricting Cert1~icate to cne Point ••• ................ 

CONTINUOUS INSPECTION ••••• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VISUAL AIDS • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -........................ . 

• • • • • 

567 

574 

579 

5Ro· 

582 

584 

588 

573 

'i83 

5R6 
{: 

• 
UNITED STATES l:lEPAlmlBNT OF AGRIClJL'lURE 

AGRIClJLTURAL WARKE'l'IIli SERVICE 

FRUIT AND VFXiETA!LE DIVIS!~ 

FRESH mro::rs mANCH 

GmERAL INSPECl'IOO INS'l'mJCl'I<N3 

SHIPPIIli FOINT !f 

These instructions are a general guide for shipping point (1) 

inspectors. They contain the basic principles on which certification 

is made on more than 80 products Which are inspected annually by the 

Service somewhere in the States and Puerto Rico. Additional 

inspection instructions applying to specific ccmrodities have been 

issued for the 110re camon products. The Federal Supervisor in charge 

of the work in each area will issue the necessary instructions 

covering others. 11 such instructions will be based on the principles 

laid down in these General Instructions. It is, therefore, highly 

important that they be studied carefully by each inspector and 

scrupuloosly followed. When the inspector is in doubt regarding the 

course to be follew~ed under any unusual circumstances, he should 

consult his supervisor. 

F'liNDtUIENTAL IRINCIPLES OF J;NSI"'CTION 

In every inspection it is absolutely essential that all pertinent (2) 

facts be detennined and stated a:s accurately as possible. No 

circlliiStances can be permitted to influence the accuracy of this work. 

It can make no difference to the inspector, in the conduct of his (3) 

work, who may be the grower, shipper or buyer of tne product on which 

he is working; or for whom the inspection is being made. It is none 

of his concern whether the supply may be generally poor and light with 

demand active and prices high, or heavy supplies of good stock 

available with poor demand and low prices. If a lot of any product is· 

represented as either better or worse than it really is, some one may 

be injured and our service will suffer in value and prestige. It is 

necessary to remerrber at all times that our certificates have no place 

for opinions or ccmparisons; they are intended solely for statements 

of known facts. It is up to each llll.n to be familiar with the 

instructions pertaining to his work and to see that he follows them. 

This is his personal responsibility for Which he will be held strictly 

accountable. 

• 

y These Instructions supersede "Shipping Point Handbook" revise<i 

August, 1959. 

REPRINTED MAY 1994 
-2-

(4) Inspections made for Government agencies on price support, 

.export and subsidy programs and truck shipments, must receive the 

same care that is accorded commercial carlot shipments. 

AUTHORITY FOR THE INSPECTION SERVICE 

(5) The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Service was started 

in 1917. Until 1922 its authority was restricted to work in 

destination markets where the inspections were made by Federal 

Market Inspectors. In 1922 Congress extended the service-toshipping points by adding to the appropriation authority the 

words, "when offered for interstate shipment." From the 

beginning of the service, it has been partially supported by 

appropriations made annually in the Agricultural Appropriation 

Act. Since 1946 financial aid has also been given·annually by 

appropriations under the Agricultural Marketing Act, which gives 

the authority for our inspection activities. Under this 

authority the Secretary of Agriculture has issued S.R.A. - A.M.S. 

No. 93, Revised, Rules and Regulations of the Secretary of 

Agriculture Coveringthe Inspection and Certification of Fruits 

and Vegetables and other Products. Each inspector may obtain a 

copy of these regulations from their Federal Supervisor. 

When the work was extended to shipping points, no additional 

funds were provided by Congress for the expanded service 

requested by the industry. As it was held that the Federal 

Department, working-independently, could not collect fees and use 

them to pay the cost of the service, a plan was developed under 

which the inspection work at shipping point could be done under 

cooperative agreements with the States. These agreements provide 

that the inspectors are to be employed by the States and licensed 

by the Federal Department. The State collects the fees and from 

them pays the inspectors' salaries and other expenses of 

operating the service. The Federal Department supervises the 

inspection and certification work for which it is reimbursed by 

the State.. The State also pays the Federal Department a small 

charge for Federal overhead. 

(7) In recent years a few cooperative agreements have been 

entered into under which the Federal Department employs the 

inspectors who issue Federal certificates. The fees are · 

collected by the Federal Department and are held by the Federal 

Treasurer in a Master Trust Fund Account from which the expenses 

of the work are paid. 

(8) Receiving Market inspectors issue straight Federal 

certificates and the fees collected also go into a Master Trust 

Fund Account. When shipping point inspectors issue cooperative 

Federal-State certificates, the fees collected go into a fund 

maintained by the various states. 

,, 
-7-

The inspector is frequently confronted with some new . (28) 

condition or practice with which they are not familiar but which 

may be a matter of common knowledge to growers and others in the 

community. The inspector should not publicly express his or her 

ignorance of such practices, but by judicious questioning and 

observation obtain the desired information. Uncertainty as to 

grade factors and indecision are .always looked upon by patrons of 

the Service as evidence of carelessness. The inspector must 

strike a happy medium between these extremes. 

The inspector must not assume responsibility for packing (29) 

house operation. The inspector should always be ready to give 

information regarding grade and pack, but must never allow 

.themselves to be held responsible. An understanding should be 

had with themanagement and the foremen at the beginning of the 

work as to the limit of the inspector's responsibility in this 

connection.· .An understanding should also be.reached as to the 

person to whom the inspector is to report the results of their 

examinations·both during the progress of the inspection arid after 

it has been completed. Usually the packing house foreman is the 

proper party to whom a report should be made of the failure of 

samples to meet the specifications of the designated grade. 

Before inspection is started,·a definite understanding (30) 

should be reached with the manager as to whether the inspector is 

to certify the output as it comes from the packers or whether a 

certain grade is to be made and the inspector is expected to give 

notice when the tolerance is being exceeded. Prompt action is 

necessary in the latter case for the foreman is looking to the 

inspector for prompt advice as to failure of the graders and 

packers to turn out the required grade. 

The inspector must not criticize one member of the industry (31) 

before another. They're hired to inspect and certify the quality 

and condition of products - not to express opinions about 

business practices. 

The inspector may learn much about the business of certain (32) 

shippers. such information should be treated as confidential and 

under no circumstances. is it to be given to a competitor or 

others outside of the Service. 

The inspector.should not make critical remarks to the trade (33) 

or others in connection with work assignments, inspection or 

service policy or other matters concerning only the inspection 

service. In some areas shipping point inspectors, through long 

associations with individual shippers, sometimes. develop 

especially friendly relationships with applicants. In these 

instances the inspector should exercise special care not to 

criticize official instructions or policies to them and not to 

disclose to them confidential information. Failure to do so may 

make it necessary for the supervisor to transfer the inspector to 

another inspection station. 
- 3-

~elation of the Inspector with Other Insnectorg. ~e insnector 

should avoid ari2;UI1Ents w~th other insr.>ectors in tl'lc rm~sence of' outsiders re~rdinr,: ~de interpretations or other matters relative to the Serv:lce. 

Such differences of opinion should be confined to private discussion and 

usually should be referred to the Suoervisinr; Inspector. 

( 35) It is t.met:"'lical to criticize other bspectors in the presence r:~ 

those outside the Service and criticism of other Lnsnecto~ by outsiders 

should be disco\li"aF!;ed. This includes inspectors in othc:::" 'll'Cas or 

states as ~ell as those with whom the inspector works. ~e inBpector 

should inform those who cam lain of another insnector' s work that they 

should take the matter up with the Supervisor. 

(36) Net~ inspectors, and men ~10rldn11; on corrrnorlities with which thev ~ 

not very familiar, should be ~ven ~11 nossible infor.nation a~d assistance, not only by the Inspector in Char~, but by all exoe~ienced men 

i•lor1cLng in the district. Advice or instrur.tions should not be withheld 

frCJ!TI a man when it is noticed that he is not fbllowinR; oroner nrocedure 

in his inspection ~-o•ork or his contact with the public~ 'Jn the other hand, 

the new inspector or the inspector ~1!10 is ineJq>erienced in a commo:iitv, 

should not resent havin~ information or advice offered by an exnerienced 

inspector who is not. his supervisor. He should heed the instructions or 

advice and have his supervisor veri~/ it at the earliest opnortunitv if 

he desires. 

R1.JLFS OF CONDUCT FOR INSPECTORS 

( 37) ilonest:v a11d impartiality are the foundatio.~ stones of the Inspection 

Service. Inspectors must conduct themselves at all times in a wa:v that 

will not ])rinp.; discredit or disrespect to themselves or to the Service. 

Their inteP.;I'ity must be above question. Any Rerious or reneated misconduct will be cause for suspendin~ or revoking an inspector's license. 

1/hile the list is not exclusive, the followinll; forms of misconduct are 

cause for disciplinary action: 

1. Inspectors must not use alcoholic bevera~s 1n any form while 

on the ,job. Their use off the job :nust not. brinr.; discredit to 

the·inspector or to the Service and must not interfere with 

the performance of' official duties. 

2. Irispectors must not borrow mooe:v or acceot other financial 

favors from shippers, groo,o~ers or other users of the Service. 

3. Inspectors must not accept offers of aid in gettino.: trade-in 

allowanees, 1.1!1USual discounts, etc.. Accepta'1(;e of such. 

ravors places the inspector under obllll;ation to the ~ver. 

•' 
Revised Mal~ch 10, 1969 BN-40-2 

- 3 -

'::1.3 cooperative agreements under which the shippjn:~; point servir:e ( 9) 

is administered are not alwa_ys with State denartments or AP,;riculture, althou~ that is generally the case. Sane agreements are with. the Extensico Service and coe is with a State Cattlemen's Association. As a 

natter or convenience, the words "State" or "State Department of .Agricu;tture" will be used in this Handbook to- rerer to the agency which 

cooperates with the Federal Department in this service,. rer;ardless of the 

nature or its organization. 

RELATICNSHIP ow THE INS!'EcroR 

Relation or the Insoector to the State. When the shippin~ ooint ( 10) ~~pector is employed by the State he receives his p~v from the State. 

Tenns or employment, methods or pa_yrnent of sa1ariel3, salary rates and 

nersonnel requirements are different in the various states. The insoector 

should reach a definite understanding with the State rellp.rdin~~; the 

tenns and conditions of his e!TJ.lloyment. State officials are furnished; 

by the l<'ederal Department' a list of available insoectors with a record 

of their past performances. · It should be distinctl,y understood that the 

'F'ederal Department does not·usually emoloy the shippinr, point inspectors 

but issues Federal licenses to those who are believed to be competent to 

properly certify the quality and condition of the commodity on which the 

inspector is to work. · 

In a few states the inspectors also act as re~latorv o~ficials in (11) 

the enforcement of state standardization, insoection or quarantine laws. 

Inspectors under such circumstances, and the states that emoloy them, 

must clearly distin¢sh between their duties as Federal licensees and 

State reJ;Ulatory officials a11d should make clear to all r>arties concerned that the '~<'ederal Deoartment is in no way responsible for their re~latory activities. Any attempt to use the '~<'ederal license card as 

evidence of authority to force a shipper to any course of action under 

a state reP,Ulation may result in cancellatico of the license. 

* Relation of the Inspector to the Federal Departn:.ent. Each coopera- ( 12) * * tive agreement provides that the Federal Department wHl be represented * * by a Federal Supervisor to. work with the State in conducting the Service. · * 

* It is his duty to issue Federal license cards to inspE:ctors employed by * ~ the State if he believes them to be competent to properly certify the * * quality, condition and grade of the commodities to be inspec~ed. Certifi· * * cates signed by a properly licensed shipping point inspector have the same * 

- * weight as other Federal certificates. * 
- 4 -

( 13) Tne Federal Supervisor is responsible for trainin12; and the supervision of the licensees in grade interpretations, inspection procedure, 

certificate writing and relationships with the trade. The '~<'ederal 

Department, through its Federal Supervisors, is responsible for issuing 

certificates that are based on uniform grade interpretations and written 

in descriptive terrrt5 that are of uniform definition at all sh1.ppinr; and 

receiving points throughout the country so that sh:..ppers and receivers 

will have accurate,. reliable documents of uniform interpretation on which 

to trade. • · · . . 

( 14) Licensee's Personnel Record Cards • Tne obligations of the licensee 

to the Federal I:)epartment are set forth on the back of the Licensee's 

Personnel Record Card which each inspector is required to siJi111 iJ'l 

quadruplicate at the time he is first licensed. One copy goes to the 

files in \.Jashinf;ton, one to the files of the Federal SJ.pervisor, one to 

the District Supervisor and one copy should be retained by the licensee. 

(15) .When the licensee signs this card, he agrees to abide by Federal 

instructions ~vernin12; the shipping poL~t inspection of fruits and 

vegetables whether they are given to him personally by the Federal Sunervisor or in the form of handbooks, memoranda or other written instructions. He also agrees to accept the interpretations of the Federal 

Suoervisor or other representative of the u. S. Department of A!l;riculture. He agrees to make clear and accurate inspection notes of each 

inspection and to write certificates from such notes strictly in accordance with Federal instructions. Last~v. he a~es to surrender ~is 

license card to his 'F'ederal Supervisor on request or at the end of any 

inspection deal, or by June 30 following the date on which it wa~ issued. 

( 15) Federal License Cards. Tne Federal license card authorizes the 

inspector to issue Federal-State certificates on the products indicated 

on the back of the ca.~. Inspectors are not permitted to si~ certificates 

until they have· been issued valid license cards countersi~ed by the 

Federal Supe~lisor. License cards should not be back dated to cover certificates already issued. 

( 17) Correct first names or initials of in.o;pectors should aopear on 

license cards, and not nicknames. The name en the license card should be 

exactly Ghe same as that on back of the oersonnel Record Card and tne si~ature used in signin~ certificates. 

~-
- 'i -

\</hen an inspector becorres ']Ualif'ied to certify a comnodity, the ( 1!.) 

Federal Supel"Visor will list it on the back of his license ca.rd. Stll.te 

Supervisors or other suoervisors a.re not permit ted to add corrmodit.ies to 

an inspector's license .card. Only the Federal SuperVisor does this. 

Federal license ca.~s may be carried from one state to another (10) 

and used without the sig1ature ot the Federal Supel"Visor in the oew st~~e 

but should always be presented to hi~ for his exaMination and listin~ 

before actual inspection work is begun. It will be sufficient for the 

Federal Supervisor to whcm the licensee ha~ renorted from a previous 

assignment in another state to initial the licensee's card which he received en the previous assig}11Tlent. The date on 1~hich the card is init ialerl 

should also be shown to~ther with the name of any additional commodities 

which the 11 censee is being authorized to certify. 

Licensees rrust surrender their license cards to the Federal Suner- (?.11) 

visor at the completion of their employment in his area of sunervision, 

however, supervisors need not require licensees to surrender their cards 

upon leaving their jurisdiction when it is known that thev 

will continue to inspect under other supel"Visors within a re!l.Sonable 

time within the fiscal year. 

·License cards exp:!,re June '30 each year and new· ones Irust be issued (21) 

befOl'e any certificates may be sigr~ed by the inspector in the new 

fiscal year. All cards are to be turned in on JUne 30 to the suoervisor 

under whom the licensee is world.nf?: at that tiliE, or last worked, or a.re 

to be mailed to the Fruit and Vegetable Division of the U. S. D:lpartment 

·or Agriculture, Washington, D. c. All expired license cards :we filed 

in the Washington office so that it can ee determined what products the 

licensee was authorized to inspect in any given year. 

If the licensee continues to work beyond June 311, the ~ederal (22) 

Supervisor will issue him a new card listing on its ba.ck the names of all 

cCXll!ll':ldities appearing on 1he expirinPo; card. In listing the c=dities 

· ~rhich the licensee has been authorized to inspect, the supel"Visor will 

not restrict the comnodity to any particular state. Once an inspector 

has qualified to certify a cOITI!OOdity in 6ne state, the sarre authority 

holds in all states • 

'!he license cards of "key rren" or supervising inspectors who have . ( 23) 

ilrrr2diate supervision over certain groups of inspectors, rrust, in addition 

to the signature of the Federal Supervisor, bear the initials of a 

representative of the Fruit and Vegetable Division in Washington. When 

issuing cards to these- ren, the Federal Supervisor will write or type 

across the top of the face of the card the words "For Suoervisory \olork'' 

an1 forward it to the District Suoervisor Who will l'eview it and forWard 

it to the Washingtoo office for aPProval. 
(2'1) 

( ?:)) 

(27) 

Susneasio:1 or '12vocat im of Licc:1::;0. 0f !..icensed L'lsnector is the 

hea.ru_n~ of Section 51.31: of Service 'lflr.l '<·:m.tl::ttor:v AnnowlCe:n0:1ts ··ro. 'l3, 

:levised, \·thich provides that, :l..'W licen:>e rm . .v be suspended by the 

A~k:rl.nistrator .of c&:·B, nendi'ln.; fin'll 'lction b_y the Secret'lr.'r ;~hencver · such ·officinl shnll dee:n (on t!-)e advicq or the Chief of the Branch <~nd 

the "'eJeral Sul)ervisor)· such :wtim i:; :1ecessary. ''lithin 7 d:ws after 

the r :cni!)t of t:Je notice, <:ll1d r-;tate:'!Cnts of re!l.:lbns, ':JY such licensee, 

he nay file an a::meal i:1 ~witirlP; 'dt!'l the Sec~ta.r:v sunoorted by <-~w 

'\rgument of evidence that he ma:v !fis!'l to of~'er R.S to !"1-Jv h:l.s license 

should not b~ suspcrl'leu or revo'<c<:. -

Inspectors Have no :-lep;ulator:v .1\uthoritv. All im;nectors shoul(l 

keen in mind at all tires that u:1-:ler- their "'eder::>.l author-ity. the'! hnve 

no reP-,Ulatory or police t;\0'1/Ct'S. '!neir "'er:\eml authority is to render a 

service to the fresh fruit snd ver;et'\ble it1'Juntry in certifying the 

quality and condition of products Nhich t!'l~y ~re requested. to insooct. 

T'le :;"ederal Denart'!lent enforces the Exnort A.nnle '111d Pear Act '9.lld the 

ExPor.t nraoe and Plum Act. A licensed insnecto~'s 1uty in th~~ connection 

is to issue the F.mort FoM Certi f'ic::~te ;'1!1en his bsnection sho-115 t'1at a 

shiri:nent meets the re1uirer.ents of t'le Act. '!'he· "'edet'lll Dena.>'trent also 

er.forces the !'erishabie Ar;ricultur'll Co:rimdities Act. 'The insnector s"lould 

follo\•/ instructions in par:l•[.r'dphs 119-110 rer:<J.M:i..'1~ renortinr; '11ishra'ldina;. 

"!elation of the Insnector to t"le '!'rade. Honest:v and itll!);::utiality · ::t.l"'C foundation stones of the .'3ervic<:! ::c·ui n.ll L'lspectors should avoid any 

conduct \~hich rniP',ht raise a que:>tion in the minds of n::ttrons .a."! to their 

observance·of these principles. The inspector is warned a~inst acceptin~ · fav·ors from any Pn.e in the industry. Such favors rna,v be offered in many 

forms such as Christmas presents, hi~ priced ninners, tiCkets to football 

r;arres or other entertainments, gifts o" money or other valuables for "sreciall~~ efficient and acco!Tl'lOdatin~ service renuirin'7. a lot of' overti:re." Such favors nust be resi'Ject fllllV ciecllned for they i!lll)ly that some 

f::J.Vor h<>..s been g;rante:l by the inspector or ~·w !Je exoected in the future 

by the l:,:l.ver. '!'he accepta'1ce of suc>t f1.vors mav result in the inspector 

beb~ char~d :dth ''acceptinr.; a bribe'' 'L'ld 'lS a. rntter of self-defense he 

should i!'l'r.Ediately · rel)ort such offers to !'lis sunerVisor. 

The ~,spector should maint:lln corw:'.ial relatioos with all oatrons of' 

the Service a'1d their etn;)lo;t,rees but l'lithout becomi.n~~; so ~iendl.v ~ to 

create an appearance of favoritism. Undue friendshi!'1 bet!'/een the inspector 

and a member of the trade should be avoi,led for it makes it d1. fficult for 

the inspector t.o mai!'ltain an attitude of strict imnartiallty and may sub,ject 

the Service to criticism. Even -thouctt no .narti~lity is shown, c0!1'l00titors 

may suspect a'ld accuse the inspector of Mino: rxtrtial. ~voir:l frerment 

social contacts such as hav;J.ng dinner or a.tt~ndinp; sh0\-'5 with rrerrbers of 

the trade. In no insta'lce shA.ll !l.'l t~snector hecome 1.nvolved in p;arnhlinp; 

• 
-7-

The inspector is frequently confronted with some new , ( 28) 

condition or practice with which they are not familiar but which 

may be a matter of common knowledge to growers and others in the 

community. The inspector should not publicly express his or her 

ignorance of such practices, but by judicious questioning and 

observation obtain the desired information. Uncertainty as to 

grade factors and indecision are .always looked upon by patrons of 

the Service as evidence of carelessness. The inspector must 

strike a happy medium between these extremes. 

The inspector must not assume responsibility for packing (29) 

house operation. The inspector should always be ready to give 

information regarding grade and pack, but must never allow 

themselves to be held responsible. An understanding should be 

had with the management and the foremen at the beginning of the 

work as to the limit of the inspector's responsibility in this 

connection. An understanding should also be.reached as to the 

person to whom the inspector is to report the results of their 

examinations both during the progress of the inspection and after 

it has been completed. Usually the packing house foreman is the 

proper party to whom a report should be made of the failure of 

samples to meet the specifications of the designated grade. 

Before inspection is sta'rted, ·a definite understanding (30) 

should be reached with the manager as to whether the inspector is 

to certify the output as it comes from the packers or whether a 

certain grade is to be made and the inspector is expected to give 

notice when the tolerance is being exceeded. Prompt action is 

necessary in the latter case for the foreman is looking to the 

inspector for prompt advice as to failure of the graders and 

·packers to turn out the required grade. 

The inspector must not criticize one member of the industry (31) 

before another. They're hired to inspect and certify the quality 

and condition of products - not to express opinions about 

business practices. 

The inspector may learn much about the business of certain (32) 

shippers. Such information should be treated as confidential and 

under no circumstances is it to be given to a competitor or 

others outside of the Service. 

The inspector should not make critical remarks to the trade (33) 

or others .in connection with work assignments, inspection or 

service policy or other matters concerning only the inspection 

service. In some areas shipping point inspectors, through long 

associations with individual shippers, sometimes. develop 

especially friendly relationships with applicants. In these 

instances the inspector should exercise special care not to 

criticize official instructions or policies to them and not to 

disclose to them confidential information. Failure to do so may 

make it necessary for the supervisor to transfer the inspector to 

another inspection station. 
- a -

(311) "!elation of the Inspector with Other InsnectorR. '!'he insnector 

s'1ould avoid arll;l.lJrents with other ins!)ectors in ti-Jc ~'r~sence or outsiders re~rdin~ ~de interpretations or other matters relative to the Service. 

Such differences of opinion should be confined to private discussion and 

usually should be referred to the Suoervisinr; Inspector. 

( 35) It is tmethical to criticize other bspectors in the presence r:f 

those outside the Service 3nd criticism of other L~snecto~ by outsiders 

should be discourap;ed. This includes inspectors in other- JU'eas or 

states as ~ell as those with whom the inspector works. The in~pector 

should inform those who comolain of another insnector' s work that they 

should take the matter up with the Supervisor. 

(36) ~Je1~ inspectors, and men workinll; on commorti. ties with Vth ich they ~ 

not very familiar, should be ~iven ~11 nossible information a~d assistance, not only by the Inspector in Char~, but by all exoe~ienced men 

•·torki!'lg in the district. Advice or instrur:tions should not be withheld 

from a man when it is noticed that he is not fbllowing orooer orocedure 

i:1 his inspection work or his contact with the public~ Qn the other hand, 

the new inspector or the inspector vtho is inem.erienced in a commo::litv, 

should not resent havin~ information or advice offered by 30 em.erienced 

inspector who is not. his supervisor. He should heed the instructions or 

advice and have his supervisor veri~; it at the earliest opoortunity if 

he desires. 

RvrES OF CONDUCI' FOR DJSPECI'ORS 

( 37) ilonest:v a"ld impartiality are the foundation stones of the Inspection 

Service. Inspectors must conduct themselves at all times in a wa.v that· 

will not brinp; discredit or disrespect to themselves or to the Service. 

Their inteP.;rity must be above question. Any serious or reoeated misconduct will be cause for suspendin~ or revoking an inspector's license. 

/fuile the list is not exclusive, the folla#in~ forms of misconduct are 

cause for disciplinary action: 

1. Inspectors must not use alcoholic bevera~s in any form while 

on the ,job. Their use off the job :nust not. brina; discredit to 

the·inspector or to the Service and must not interfere with 

the performance of official duties. 

2. Irispectors must not borrow mcne:v or acceot other financial 

favors from shippers, r;rowers or other users of the Service. 

3. Inspectors must not accept offers of aid in gettinl'; trade-in 

allowances, unusual discounts, etc.. Accepta'1c:e of such. 

!"avors places the inspector under obll~tion to the giver. 
- CJ -

4. Inspectors must not accept l;!"atuities or girts from patrons of 

the Service. This includes Christmas presents, hi~ priced 

dinners. tickets to ball games' etc. 

5. Money, other valuables or girts must not be accepted for 

"especially effecient ·or accolllllodat:!nll; service requiring; a 

lot of overtime." Such acaept13!1ce ma;y be construed as ''accenting 

a bribe." 

6. Inspectors rrust have no fina'lcial, :!nterest, directly or indirectl v, 

in the products they insoect. 

7. Inspectors ma;y tnke no active part in oolitical ~na~ment or 

political campaigns. 

8 •. Severe penalties will be imposed for knowingly falsifY:ln~ 

S~;Qvemment documents includinll; emense vouchers, field notes 

and certificates. 

9. L'lspectors ~Y not be members of a·political party that advocates 

overthrow of our ll;QVe~~nt by ~'lconstitutional means. 

1:1. Inspectors may not accent a bribe. Of~ers of bribes shoul:l be 

reported to the federal supervisor irrm=diatel.v, for the inspector' 3 

protection. InvestiP.;ation of bribery charges are made bv the :"3I; 

other investi~ptions llla;Y be made by the ~e~onal In~ ector r~ner~l - USDA. 

3orrowers. In~oectors are forbidden to borr01~ money o~ acce1?t other ( 18) 

financial favors from ~wers, shippers or other natrons of the Service. 

Offers of ud in ~ttin~ tr?.1e-in allo~1ances, unusual disco~'lts 0!1 

purchases or repairs or other services (includinP.; room rents) should be 

oolitely decJined as they are often ma::lf> with the puroose of placinr>; the 

inspector under an oblir.;ation. The insp~ctor should h;we no oblir.;ation 

to those for whom he makes inspections excent to properly certi~' the 

product offered. It has been necessary to refUse to renew the licenses 

of a number of inspectors ;~ho violated this rule. "'ailure to meet obligations for board and room, services, autombilc repairs, etc. casts a 

reflection on the inte~itv ·af the licensee and ma.v raise a question as 

to his dependa~ility as an inspector. 
Revised Feb. 15,1973 - BN-55-1 (b) 

• 10 -

(39) Financial Interest of lnspec~. 7 CFR, Part 51, Section 51.15 reads: 

"No inspector shall inspect any products in which he is financially 

interested, either dir·~tly or indirectly.'' Dir~ct interest includes 

ownership of, or agency centro~ over, the product. Indirect interest 

includes business relations with the owner of the product such as employee, partner or agent and any personal relationship with the owner, 

foreman, grader or other employee which may raise a question as to the 

impartiality of the inspector. · ' 

(40) Discreet Speech. An inspector frequently gets into trouble for talk· 

ing too much, .but seldom for talking too little. Avoid careless remarks 

to bystanders about the. quality of the product which is being inspected. 

Such remarks may be used by buyers to "beat down" the price of the commodity. Do not make comparisons of the qualities of products produced by 

different growers or grown in different sections. Local growers and shippers· do not like to hear their products compared unfavorably with those 

of another area, state,. or competitor. 

(41) Observance of "No Smoking" Rules. Some shipping fims hav.e rules 

against smoking i•' their buildings. Such rules are because of the fire 

hazard and the possibility of higher insurance rates if smoking i;; permit~ed. All inspectors while on an applicant's premises should respect 

and observe the same restrictio·ns relatise to smok.ing ·that the management 

imposes on its personnel. 

(42) Political Activitv. All in~pectors are forbidden, during the period 

of their t;espective appointments or licenses, to take an a.ctive part in 

politic~l management or in political campaigns. Political activities in 

city, county, state or national elections, "'hether primary or regular; 

or in behalf of any party, candidate or measure to be voted upon, are 

prohibited. This applies to all appointees or licensees. Wilful violations of this section will constitute grounds for revocation of licenses 

in the case of licensees. (Refer to Section 51.47, 7 CFR, Part 51). 

* (42a) Reporting Alleged or Suspected Bribery. AMS Instruction 366-1 on * 

Reporting Misconduct and other offenses, was revised November 22, 1972. * Paragraph V of these Instructions deals with t'Cllorting alleged or * 

suspected bribery and applies to all shipping point inspectors. Para- * graph V st~tns that ·~ny employee or Federal licensee who is offered a * 

bribe or who believes. that a bribe was offered, solicited, ·or accepted * by another employee shall: · * 
* * 

* * 

* * 

* * 

* 

* * * * 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* * * 

* 

* 

* 

* 

Revised April 4, 1975 BN-64)1a) 

10-a 

A. Immediately report that information directly to the nearest office of the 

Office of Investigation by telephone (see Exhibit B of this Instruction for 

addresses and telephone numbers). This includes situations where a forthright offer was not made, but the employee or Federal licensee suspects 

that he is being "felt out" or that an offer of a bribe could reasonably 

be implied. 

~ Follow the instructions of OI on the action to be taken to avoid jeopardizing 

any subsequent investigations • 

.£:. Not disclose the information or that it was reported .to OI to anyone, without the prior approval of or or the Federal Bureau of Investigation. II 

REGION 

NO. 

1 

2 

3 

EXHIBIT B - REGIONAL OFFICES OF THE OFFICE OF INVESTIGATION 

ADDRESS 

Regional Director 

Office of Investigation, USDA 

26 Federal Plaza, Room 1707 

New York, NY 10007 

Telephone (212) 264-8400 

Regional Director 

Office of Investigation, USDA 

Federal Center Building, 

Room 432-A 

Hyattsville, MD 20782 

Telephone (301) 436-8850 

Regional Director 

Office of Investigation, USDA 

1447 Peachtree St., N~, Room 900 

Atlanta, GA 30309 

Telephone (404) 526-5377 

TERRITORY 

Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, 

New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, 

Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont, 

Virgin Islands 

Delaware, District or Columbia, 

Maryland, Pennsyl\'ania, Virginia, 

West Virginia 

Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, 

MissisQippi, North Cqrolina, South 

Carolina, Tennesse~ 
Revised April 4, 1975 BN-64(la) 

REGION 

NO. 

"' 4 

"' 

"' "' "' * "' 

"' 5. 

"' "' *· 

"' 

"' "' "' "' 

"' 6 

"' "' * 

* * * * 7 

* * *· 

* * 

ADDRESS 

Regional Director 

Office of Investigation, USDA 

1 ·North Wacker Drive, Room 800 

Chicago, IL 60606 

Telephone (312) 353-1358 

Regional Director 

Office of Investigation, USDA 

3912 South General Bruce Drive 

Temple, TX 76501 

Telephone FTS (817) 773-1351 

(817) 773-1711 

Ext. 351 

Regional Director 

Office of Investigation, USDA 

Post Office Box 205 

Kansas City, MO 64141 

Telephone (816) 926-6611 

Regional Director 

Office of Investigation, USDA 

555 Battery Street,. Room 522 

San Francisco, CA 94111 

Telephone (415) 556-6443 

lOb 

TERRITORY 

Illinois, Indiana, Michigan 

Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin 

Arkansas, Louisiana,New Mexico 

Oklahoma, Texas 

Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, 

Nebraska 

* * 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

* * * * * * Alaska, Arizona, California, * 

Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, * 

Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, *· 

South Dakota, Territory of Guam, * 

Trust Territories of the Pacific, * 

Utah, Washington, Wyoming * 

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS 

(43) Refusing to Inspect. An inspector in charge of an office may 

refuse to inspect if -

1. The applicant objects ~o the inspector cutting an adequate 

number of specimens to determine the interior quality or 

condition; 

2. The applicant fails to furnish necessary information ~r to 

make the commodity reasonably available or accessible for 

inspection; 

3. The applicant refuses to pay for previous inspections; 
-11-

~. In case of f'raud or misrepresentation; 

5. The applicant interferes with an inspector; or 

6. · When it appears that to perfonn the insoection would not be to 

the best interests of the Government. (See Sections 51.10, 

51.'52 and 51.5~ of Regulations S.R.A; ~o. 93, ~evised). 

Before refusing service to an applicant, a definite procedure lll.ISt ( 44) 

be followed by the Chief of the Branch. In the absence of a ·marketing 

ap.;reerrent, and in errergencies that require inmediate action, it ma,v be 

possible to deny inspection for a short period, but an opportunity for 

a hearing lll.lst be given an applicant before permanent debarrrent of the 

service can be made effective. Should an.v of the above :;;ituations arise, 

the inspector should see that his Federal Supervisor is adviSed who will 

be guided by the detailed instructions in the Manual for Shipping Point 

Supervisors, pa~ 23. · 

Prima Facie Evidence. '!be Perishable Agricultural CORJ'OC>dities Act ( 45) 

provides that certificates issued by the authorized a11;ents of the United 

States Departrrent of Agruculture shall be received in all Federal Courts 

as prima facie evidence of the truth of the staterrents therein contained. 

Such certificates are also prima facie evidence in proceedings in the 

courts of many states. '!be term "prima facie evidence" as thus used, · rreans that such evidence will be sufficient for the proof of the facts 

unless contradicted and overcome by superior evidence. 

When inspecting raw products for processing an a processor's cen- ( 46) 

tract specifications, or en au. S. Standard for processed products that 

pennits variations in specifications, the inspector should ctltain a copy 

of the contract or a written copy of the specifications in other form. 

'Ibis he will secure 1'ran his Federal Supervisor or from the contractor 

with the approval of the Federal supervisor. In such sped.ficaticns all 

te!m'l , such as "damage by-," etc. shculd be clearly defined for each 

factor or defect. 'Ihe inspector should becorre thoroughly familiar with 

all contract specifications before he starts grading. 

If the processor plans to deviate from these specifications, he llll5t ( 47) 

notifY the inspector's Federal Supervisor and secure his approval before 

inspections can be made en such deviations.. '!be inspector should always 

rerrember that he takes his instructions ·in coonectien with grade interpretations ana inspection procedure from his supervisor, not fran orocessor 

or the grower. 
( 1!8) 

(49) 

(5'1) 

(51) 

(52) 

- 12 -

Attempting Too Many Insoections. The inspector must not attemnt to 

certify more lots than can be pi'Operly examined. He should get in touchwith his supervisor inlrnediately when he has more work than he can prooerly 

handle. 

Order of Inspections. Anplicants who have made blanket inspection 

requests are entitled to priority over tt.os<J who make applications from 

day to day. If inspections are rrade "on call," they should be handled 

a~ ne~ly as possible in the order of receipt. Occasional variations may 

be made from this policy when it is possible to handle more applications 

by so doing. 

When a shipper is denendinp; on the Service to inspect certain lots or 

his entire output, it is vet'Y embll.!'I'assinP,; if sorre of them are missed 

because of lack of tirre. Shippers should be informed that the:; should 

file their applications far enou~ in advance to enable the Service to 

oroperly ad1ust its personnel. It is manifestly unfair for a shipoer ~ho 

ha~ been applyin~ for insoection of only one car a day to ~only for 1n 

cars without any advance notice. Re~lar apolicants should be v,i.ven preference until sufficient help has been furnished by the Supervisor to take 

care of such unexpected demands· for service. 

Resnonsibility for Condition of !:pad. It is the duty of the apnlicnm, 

to make the product accessible for insnection but in.practice it is often 

necessary for the insoector to disarrange oart· of a loaded car or a lot 

Nithout the knowled~ of the apolicant. If he does this he is responsible 

for replacin!l; the packa~~;es os he found them. If the load has been made 

accessible by the shinper it is not the duty of tha inspector to restore 

it to its orlp;inal condition excent for closinP.; oacka~~;es. The insnector 

should always carrv a sack needle, nails, and any other tools or 

material necessarv for this purpose. ~e inspector s~ould ~ard a~nst 

unnecessarily breal<inr;; or splinterinll; boxes or damarl.n~; oth-:!r cont~.i.ners. 

F.ach package of proctuce an insoector opens is the nronerty of some one anr! 

is entitled to the same care which thoughtful nersons r.;enerally shm'-1 to 

the property of others. 

3reakina; Seals and ResealinP.; Cars. The F'ederal authority under which 

a licensed fruit and vegetable inspector works does not permit him to 

break car seals. A !federal statute i'TIDoses heavy nenalities for unlawful breakin~; of seals on cars containin~; shinments nevin~; in interstate commerce. Care must be tal<:en by the inspector that he does not hy himself 

ooen to -the technical carge of violatin11; this statute. When it is necessary to enter a sealed ca,r :l,n connection \'-lith official business, oermis6ion must be first obtained from the local railro~d a~nt or yardmaster. 

The inspector should also comply strictly with anv instructions ~ven him 

by the a~~;ent relative to resealin!l; the car and renorttn11; to ~i"l the nu:nber 

of the seal broken, etc. 
* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* * 

* 

* 

Revised May S., 1975 BN-65-B(a) Pag. 13 

- 13 -

Cars of produce orip,inatin); in Canada or ~!exico and moving through (53) 

the United States to another country are ·Sealed with custom seals. The!=ie 

seals are usually distinp,uishable from railroad compa~y oeals by ~ed or 

I.Jlue paint on the b<:lll of th~ seal. They are embossed "U.s.c. In Bond" 

and atso carry the: port na.ni.e and 5eal number. fL•dt.'!ral statutes· provide 

a penalty of two years imprisonment or a fine of $5,000.00,or both, for 

the breaking of a cuotoms seal by one other than a customs officer. 

Precaution Against Injury. Wlten pulling out ice plugs, never (54) 

stand near the ed;\C of the roof of the car. If a plug sticks, do not 

run the risk of a back ;prain by trying to pull it out by unaided muscular 

strength' use a lever o1· bar or get other assistance if necessary. 

Use Caution in entering a car which may have been heated or gassed (55) 

with fumigant and kept closed. Burning charcoal is especially dangerous 

because of the quantity of carbon monoxide ·gas which it produces. If an 

inspection must be made in a car which has been he a ted, it should be 

thoroughly aired before entering. 

When entering a packing house, it is always advisable to use the (56) 

steps ,provided for that purpose. Be careful of your steris on wet floors; 

avoid low, overhanging racks and do not vault over moving belts. When 

entering a car, be sure the runway is properly secured and watch out for 

low doorways. Keep out of the path c-f truckers and fast moving lift 

trucks. 

Inspectors employed by the States and licensed by the Federal De- (57) 

partment are not entitled to F'dcral aid under the United States Employee 

Compensation Act. Some States provide for medical aid and cornpen::-:a.tion 

to employees injured suring the performance 6f duty. In cases of injury 

inquiry in this connection should be made of the State, Supnrvisor. 

State Serial Lot Nu~~ers. The Shipping Point Insp~ction Service in (58) * 

many States has adopted a State identified serial lot numbering or coded * 

date numbering sta~p to be applied to individual containers at time of * 

inspection. Its use provides identification bet>~een the'lot or day's * 

pack being inspected and the certificate issued describing it. * 

The inspector certifying lots Jdentified by such stamps is r~spon- (58a) * 

sible for the proper use of the stamp at all times. He and his supervisor * 

must assure th,emselves that containers so stamped are identifiable for * 

proper certification. Failure to do so could result in improper or * 

unrelated certification or misuse of such stamps .by their being applied * 

to containers of uninspected produce. * 
Revised September 30, 1976 BN-72-2(a) 

- 14 -

(59) State serial lot stamps are of numerous types but the identification 

on them consis·ts basically of the name of the state, a permanent stamp number and three interchangeable numbers. that will indicate 000 to 999 

consecutively. The number should .be changed for each lot certified. An 

adequate record is necessary for each stamp showing the date and where used, 

the inspector, the applicant, etc. Care must be exercised not to use the 

same number more than once in one crop year. 

(60) · . Certificates issued in connection with Marketing Orders or Agreements 

(61) 

.• ( 62) 

* 

*· 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* *" 

(63) 

shall show compliance or non-compliance with the terms of the applicable Order or Agreement. Such certificates may not be restricted to a portion of the lot but must cover the entire lot. 

Upon request for inspection by the shipper, a .complete size, quality, condition and grade inspection will be made and reported on the certificate. 

If a Marketing Order or Agreement requires certification as to only certain 

factors,. such as size or pack, the shipper may elect to request an inspection and certification limited to these factors. For instance, a Marketing Order 

may require only a minimum size. In such cases, if a shipper requests certification as to size only, inspecti·on is made for this one factor. The cutificate would then be restricted to size only and show compliance or noncompliance with the Marketing Order. This does not relieve the requirement 

for unrestricted access to the lot or load for inspection purposes. 

Inspection Billed to Federal_AWncies. Inspections made for, and 

billed to, Federal Agencies such as supplies for hospitals, military bases 

and stocks in storage for the DPSC or other agencies should be charged 

on an hourly basis. Collections of such charges are to be made by a 

transfer of funds between agencies in Washington. They should never be 

billed to the local activity . 

Who is entitled to Information from Score Sheets. It is necessary to * 

refuse request for copies of inspectors' notes or information from such * 

notes from those who do not have a financial interest in the lot covered * 

by such notes, unless the applicant instructs the inspector.to give infor- * 

ma.tion from his notes to a prospective buyer. After the certificate is * 

issue.d any importantinfonnation from the notes can be furnished by letter * 

upon request from a financially interested party holding or buying a copy * 

of the certificate. A copy of the. notesheet may be supplied to the * ~~licant upon specific request and only with the approval of the Federal * 

Supervisor. Others requesting a copy or information from the notes should * 

be advised that it can only be obtained by court order·in case the notes * 

-are subpoenaed (See paragraph 223). * 

Contra 1_ Of Copies of Market Certificates. Copies of fed era 1 rna rket 

cc::r·tificates are available to federal supervisors and their immediate 

staffs. Instances sometimes occur where the contenLs of these certificates 

are discussed with inspectors or supervisors in the field. Such information 

is confidential to the Inspecton Service. If the si~ipper wants information k 

from market certificates in connection with h·is shipments, he should request ) 

it froni the market inspection office of origin dnd pay the usual fee 

charged for certificate ·copies. 
* 

* * * 

* * * 

Revised September 10, 1970 BN-45-1 

- 15 •. 

Corres~ondence Relative to Inspection. Insofar as possible, all (64) 

inquiriesrom the public concerning inspections that require a written 

reply should be answered b.t the inspector i.n charge of the office where 

they are received, with a copy to the Federal Supervisor. When the 

inquiry involves the genera 1 po 1 i ci es of the Service, tt•e 1 oca 1 i nspector should refer the matter· to the Federal Supervisor for signature. 

Signing the Certificate. The original of all ty~ed certificates (65) 

must be signed with ink. Export Form certificates must have the 

inspector's signature on all but the file copies. When requested by the applicant or required by Government subsidy or purchase programs, 

one or more copies, as requested, should be signed by the inspector in 

addition to the original. In some states it has been found desirable 

for the inspector to sign the original and fourth copy with. a ball 

point pen. This makes a carbon signature on all other copies when snap 

out carbons are used. As ~he office copies bear a carbon signature, 

they can be checked to reduce the possibility of unsigned originals 

being issued to applicants. 

Signature by Supervising Inspectors. A supervisor may sign the (66) 

certificate for an in~pector working under him only when it is impractical for the inspector to be present to sign for h•mself. When signing fur another inspector, the supervisor .should check the typed certificate 

carefully against the inspector's notes. Only a "key man" or supervisor having "For Supervisory Work" endorsed on his card may sign as supervising inspector. In such cases the supervisor is authorized to sign 

his name under or to the left· of the typed name of the inspector. This 

signat:lre should generally be over the supervisor's typed name and the 

words ·'Supervising Inspector." The supervisor's name and title must 

appea.r on all copies, preferabll t~ped, but where impractical, longhand 

signature on all copies is perm s;,1ble in lieu of the typed name. In 

large offices where any of several supervisors may sign a certificate, 

it is not essential to type the supervisor's name if his signature is 

legible on all copies. Example: 

R'l chard Roe 

Joseph Doakes-Supervising Inspector Inspector 

'\ or • 

~ 

Joseph Doakes-Supervising Inspector 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

"' * 
Kevised Septemoer 10, 1970 Bti-45-.l.and 2 

*(6h) 

* • 

* 

* 

" 

... 

(67) 

(58) 

(69) 

( 70) 

(71) 

- 16 -

All inspection ce.rtificates have statements similar to the following "I, the undersigned, a duly authorized inspector of the United State~ 

Department of Aqriculture do hereby certify that on the date indicated .• :D 

f-l'~l"$&11ai t.)'-tll&pee~6-<e-a.&ev-e-Eier.el"t8etl-p PeEit~et -allti-tl'lai-the ~ua ll ti 

ano/ur• condition pertaining to sahl product was as·herein " 

Wne•!=m it.:!..!. n.,~:ess<!rt_ for the supervisor !_q_ ~j!l!!. ~)l_g_ fertifica~_ 

all referen~ 12. the fact tha~ "I Qgrsonna)~ in_a>ectej_" ~.!!!£!. b_e_ 

CieTeted !!X_ the supervisor. S1mply draw a hne through the unnecessary 

words or phrases and initial as shown in above example. Make sure that 

the statement reads correctly after the deletions are fllade. 

The term "Supervising Inspector" is not an official title out is 

a de'signation of duties. Such terms as "Inspector-in-Charge" are not 

to be used in signing certificates in this connection. 

lt 1s illegal to sign the name of another person to a Governn~nt 

document without power of attorney. It is also illegal to sign Gcv~.:mment documents in the blank form before they are typed. This 

includes Federal-State certificates • 

• Power of Attorney. One emp 1 oyee may sign the name of anotner under at~thority of a power.of attorney of a prescrib£d fonn and under specified lirnitations. Except under very ~.:nusual cirtumstances, tnis plan 1.as no auvantage over signature by the Supervising Inspector and should 

practically never be used. When it is considered necessary consult the 

Federal ~up~rvisor. The essential forms for authority for power of 

attor'ht!J sh·JulJ \Je secured .from the Washington office. Whenever Power 

of Attorr1ey .i.l. granted, the person signing the inspector's nilmt! must 

also s1.9.!!. his Q.\:!!1 ~· Example: Richard Roe l.>y Joseph Doakes rfCi s 

iiii'ti.ecessary, in this case, to make the deletions noted in paragrapns 

6Cii and b6b) • 

Blank '-ttr:Jl.ficates Not to b_fLJi_iven to the_Jublic;_. Occasionally request ar~ t~cefved from patrons of the Service for blank certificate 

f<H':"I'> t.o ~e used 111 the preparation of extra copies. Tht:! Federa 1 

Oc::p'lrtmer.t does not permit giving to the pui:>lic any cer·tificate fPnn, 

either r.u:~bered or unnumbered, . in the blant. . ~tate. 

('laking F<!_lse Use _pf Offici~l __ Certifjs_at.tt.•. Marf;s . ..Q.r_Oti!?r l.d_e..!!.ttfl·_ 

cation, Alterations uf certif1 cates, that •tave been i ;sw·:.l, l_v anyone 

OuTside the Service is a Federal cffen.se. If th" ;,,spect.or lParns of 

erasures or a 1 te r'it ions mad(. on ce rti fi cates by dJJIJ 1 i cants ur others. 

he should notHy his Federal Supervisor 11mlEdiatP-1y. 

* " 

.. 

• 

,. 

* 

.. 

" 

• 

* 

• 

* 

* 

.. 

.. 

" 
- 16a -

(72) The following is quoted from the Agricultural Marketing Act of 

1946 as amended: 

"Whoever knowingly shall falsely mal:..:, issue, alter, forge or 

counterfeit any official certificate, memorandum; mark, or other 

identification, or device for making such mark or idP.ntification, with 

respect to inspection, class, grade, quality, size, quantity,_ or condition, issued or authroized under this section or· knowingly cause or 

procure, or aid, assist in, or be a party to, such UJse making, 

issuing, altering, forging, or counterfeiting, or whoever-knowingly 

shall possess without:•promptly notifying the Secretary of Agriculture 

or his representative, utter, publish, or use as. true, or cause to be 

uttered, published, or used as true, any such falsely matle, altered, 

forged, or counterfeited official certificate, memorandum, mark, identification, or device, or whoever, knowingly represents that an 

agricultural product has been officially inspected or graded (by an 

authorized inspector or grader) under the authority of this section 

when such commod1~ has in fact not been so graded or inspected shall 

be fined not more than $1,000.00 or imprisoned not more than one year, 

or both." (See paragraphs 110-118) · 

- 17 -

Ide:1tttv Lost #hen Lot is Reo:>cked or "leconditioned. \-/hen a lot of ~73; 

oroduce covered by a certificate if reconditioned, a certain amount of 

the stock is removed. 'l'he lot ce9.ses to be the sMie a..o; orig::l.nall:v certified. therefore, t~e certificate made orior to reconditionin~ no lon~r 

arnlies to the lot. If the aoolicant wishes a certificate to cover the 

reconditioned lot a new insnect~...,n 111lSt be made. 

~ing Two•certificates on the Same Car at Shiooing Point. \~en (7U) 

two or mere certificates are insued on thP. same car at shinoin~ point 

due to re<l;!'ading; or other reasons, reference· to the certificate nurri:ler 

and date of the first certificate shoold be made under a typed-in "Rermrks" . headinf';· after the "nrade'' headinP; near the bottom of the certificate. 

Unless later certificates are restricted to Condition Onlv or.other factors, 

the Sunervisine; Insnector should irnrediatel.v notify the \o/ashin~on office 

by colle,~t teleFg"am of the second insoection. Example: ''Disre~ certificate 11281 covering ~lP5681l. Car re-g;raded and now covered by certi ficate 113'5'5." 

r,1arking of Cars. '!'he inspector must print unan the inside wall of (75) 

every certified car near the door in such position as to be most canspieuous :md leg::l.ble, the state siP71 and the date or the certification, using . blue or white crayon or chalk. '!'his marking should occU!'Y a space about 

12 inches in lenR;t~, or as nea.r this a.S oractical. Example: 

CA-4-20-59 

This me:ms the carload wa..<> inspected in the State of California on 

Aoril 20, 1959. It is very important to follow these instructions so 

that the insnector in the market will )mr:w that the car has been insoected at shipoinr,; point. If the walls are paoer lined to the top, the' 

marks mav have to be placed on the ceiling. If the load extends above 

the top of the doorNay, as is common with such products as spinach, the 

marks should be made near the tops of the insides of the doors. It is 

the policy in some states to mark the car over both· doors en all cars 

insoected. 

In some states car cards will also be used which are to be glued (76) 

or tacked in a consoicuous place uoon the inside wall of the car as nearly 

above the marldm; as possible. Never era..'>e the entries on a car card 

found L~ a car from a orior shioment and write in the date for the 

nresent shioment - use a new card. 'Ihe t.ise of the card does not take the 

place of cra,von marking. The insoector mav initial a card in one comer 

if he wishes. F.nter the full date on a car card -- not Just da.v and 

month. Old car cards should be removed or effaced as corrpletely as 

possible. 
Revised February 25, 1982 BN 92(3a) 

18 

(77) Table of State .Abbreviations 

Alabama AL Montana MT 

Alaska AK Nebraska NB 

Arizona AZ Nevada NV 

Arkansas AR New Hampshire NH 

California CA New Jersey NJ 

Colorado co New Mexico NM 

Connecticut CT New York NY 

Delaware DE North Carolina NC 

District of Columbia DC North Dakota ND 

Florida FL Ohio OH 

Georgia GA Oklahoma OK 

Hawaii HI Oregon OR 

Idaho ID Pennsylvania PA 

Illinois lL Puerto Ri..:o PR 

Indiana Ii'l Rh.ode Is land RI 

Iowa IA South Carolina sc 

Kansas KS South Dakota so 

Kentucky KY Tennessee. TN 

Louisiana LA Texas TX 

Mairie ME Utah UT 

Marylatld MD Vermont VT 

Massachusetts MA Virginia VA 

Michigan MI Virgin' Islands VI 

Minnesota MN Washington WA 

11iss iss ippi MS West Virginia wv 

Missouri :.10 Wisconsin WI 

Wyoming WY 

'78) Inspection Service Car Seals. · These will be furnished by the 

(79) 

Washington office on request. They may be used whenever.the 

inspector has reason to suspect that inspected products may be 

tampered with in the car during his absence, particularly when 

finished loads stand on the track during the night, or when it is 

impractical to reseal a car with railroad seals. 

REINSPECTIONS IN THE MARKETS 

Condition and Confirmation Inspections. The great majority of 

lots that have been inspected at shipping point and are reinspected 

in the markets fall into this class. The most common reason a 

receiver or shipper wants a reinspect ion in the market is to 

determtne the present condition of the produc• and secure a 

certificate showing any deterioration which may have developed since 

the first inspection. The market certificate may be restricted to 

reporting "condition only" or it may be a complete grade certificate 

covering all or a portion of the original lot. In the latter 

instan..:e, if condition factors only are found to place the lot in 

excess of thf? grade tolerance, the grade statement will read: "Meets 

quality requirements but fails to grade U.S. No. 1 only account of 

t.:ondit ion . 11 

) 
- 19-

'Ihe applicant SOT!Etirres requests an inspection in the market to con- ( 00) 

firm the original inspection by obtaining another inspector's statement 

to substantiate it or to secure an un~to-date certificate for sales purposes. 'Ihis is called a "confirnation inspection." 'Ihese are not considered appeal inspections. 

Apneal Insnections. 'Ihe Rules and Reisttlations provide that an (ill) 

application for an appeal inspec~ion may be Ciled by the ori~al applicant 

or other financially interested party. If there is no question as to 

the identity of the lot and the applicant is acting. in good faith and a~es to make the lot complete~y accessible for inspection an aoneal 

inspection will be made when specifically requested. Appeal insnections 

a.»e ~nerally made in the markets, however, they may also be Ill9.de at 

shipping point. 

It is the policy to have aopeal inspection in destination markets (82) 

1119.de by two inspectors whenever nractical. Under certain circwnstances 

the lvashinl¢-on office will authorize reversal of an orip;in insnection by 

a sinp.;le inspector. This will frequent~v be done when such factors as· · size, count, etc. are involved, All anneal insnections are Ill9.de with 

more than ordinary care, double the usual number of samples bein~ .scored. Usual~y an appeal inspection is made on~y when the entire lot covered by 

the original inspection is available for. examination. Occasionally an 

anneal will be made when a small nart of the lot has been removed but a 

certificate will be reversed only when the defects in individual nacka~s 

in the ,-,ortion of the load remaining are so P,;reat that the car would be 

out of grade regardless of the quality of the re!TI9.inder in the load. 

Lots ~rill be reversed as to permanent factors only when the amounts of 

permanent defects are materially at variance with those reoorted by the 

shipoing point insnector. Lots are reversed as to condition defects onlv 

when the time lapse since the original insoection is so s~~ll that there 

has been no chance for chan~. Such instances are very rare.· . . 

If the shior>in~J; r>oint certificate is reversed, no fee is char~d the ( R3) 

applicant althoui#J in some· instances he maY be billed for expenses involved. If the shippin~~; point certificate is sustained, the apnlicant is char~d the usual fee plus any expenses. Most requests for appeal inspections are received when it is found that a requested confirmation inspection does not meet grade on permanent factors and the applicant then 

requests an appeal. 
-20-

(84) Appeal inspections will be made of truck shipments in the 

markets when the lot can be identified with reasonable certainty 

as being covered by the shipping point certificate. Truck 

shipments having original seals intact, or packages State lot 

stamped or in a truck that is a common carrier or other means of 

identification by SPI certificates, wil.l be considered 

identification with "reasonable certainty." 

(85) Wiring at Request of Shippers. Inspectors at shipping 

points should not·wire receiving market inspectors to ma~e 

confirmation or appeal inspections at the request of the shipper. 

The destination market should receive the request direct from the 

shipper. 

TELEGRAMS 

(86) Telegrams to the Washington office regarding technical 

matters or administrative policies should be sent "Collect." 

Wires giving reports of inspections requested by Washington or by 

inspection offices in the various markets should be sent prepaid. 

(87) Lengthy telegrams should be sent under the day-letter or 

night-letter rate as the time of day may demand unless the case 

is so important as to demand the faster service. 

In preparing telegrams, unnecessary words should be o'mitted, 

but clarity should not be sacrificed for brevity. Ordinary 

punctuation marks such as commas, periods, and question marks are 

now transmitted without charge by the telegraph company. 

Punctuation should be inserted where necessary. It is no longer 

necessary to use the paid-for words: COMMA, PERIOD, STOP, etc. 

Up to five numerical digits as 98314, are transmitted for the 

rate of one word. Therefore, do not spell out· car or certificate 

numbers as NINE EIGHT THREE FOURTEEN .. Decimal points count the 

same as figures, for example: 98.25 is counted as a word. FGEX 

counts as one word. 2-7/8 is counted as one word but 2 7/8 is 

counted as two wprds • 

• (89) In addressing wires to market inspection offices, include 

the building or street number. These addresses are obtained from 

the address lists for the u.s. Fresh Products Inspection Branch, 

which are furnished by the Federal Supervisor's office frcim time 

to time. 

(90) A copy of an official telegram to. either the Fruit and 

Vegetable Division, U.S.D.A. at Washington, or a receiving market 

office, should be mailed the Federal Supervisor. 
-21-

In forwarding telegrams, allow one (1) hour· transmission and (91) 

delivery. Allow also for the difference in time between the 

several time belts. If all these time allowances indicate that a 

message will be delivered after office hours, the telegrams 

should be sent under the -night rate for next morning's delivery. 

For example: A telegram to Washington D.C. or New York'City 

filed at a station .on the Pacific Coast at 2: oo PM, allowing one 

(1) hour for transmission, plus three (3) hours for time 

difference, should be delivered about 6:00 PM. such a telegram 

will usually serve its purpose just as well if sent night- rate. 

GIVING OF TESTIMONY BY INSPECTORS. 

Regularly employed or licensed inspectors are expected to (92) 

testify in court or at PACA hearings in cases which involve 

inspection certificates, when properly subpo.enaed by the court or 

examiner or when requested by a PACA official to testify without 

subpoena. The Washington office should be notified, through the 

Federal supervisor, for permission to testify when a request has 

been received or a subpoena has been served. Evidence may be 

given either personally or by deposition. 

Affidavits may occasionally be asked for, but are not so (93) 

likely to be used because they are subject to objection by the 

opposing side. There is no objection to an inspector making an 

affidavit to facts within their personal knowledge in addition to 

those covered by their certificate, nor is there any objection to 

their making explanations of any fact stated on their certificate 

which might not be clear to those unfamiliar with the produce 

business. An inspector should not make an affidavit in their 

personal capacity. There is no such thing as a "personal" or 

"non-official" affidavit relative to official business. 

The Department feels that in suits in civil courts or in (94) 

complaints under the PACA it is better to have inspectors testify 

personally than to depend on a certified copy. of the certificate. 

As indicated above, this personal testimony may be given either 

in court, by deposition or affidavit. 

Inspectors who are called on to testify should always obtain(95) 

the notes. made at the time of the inspection for the purpose of 

refreshing their memories as to the number of samples taken and 

other details. In most courts and in hearings under the PACA, 

inspectors in being properly qualified as witnesses and showing 

that the notes were made at the time of ~nspection, will be 

allowed to refer to these notes while on the stand. 
- 22 -

('J6) Inspectors should re"tlizc t'1at the.v ~ called .as witn'2sses bec?.use 

of the belief that in this 'wa:{ ;J.rklit.lonal and valuable evidence r.ev be 

nresented. The:; shoul~, thert'ifore, 'be fra'1lc in statinr>; facts but ·Ca'1 

state only such opinions as .. :L..-.e based 0;1 nrorer 1JUR1i fic.!ltions. "'or 

eX8.':J!)le, w inspector should not exoress oninions as to how ranidly jecavs · 

will develo!"' in tr'3nsit for he h.~:. 'lualified ll.S a'1 inspector :md not as 

:m exnert natholop;l.st. l\nm1ledn.;e obtai:led from the oublic?.tions of nlant 

oh.vsiolop;ists and patholoR_;ists does not nual ify an insnector "l.S an exoert 

on such sub.jects. Onlv lmowledr.:e obtained bv pro:->P.rly conducted eJC::'lerimental worl< in which he had a nart will quillify a nerson as 11!1 exnert 

·t~itness. Very few insoectors can 'lUalify liS emerts outside their own 

field a'1d to attellll)t to do .so ffi'l'l cause embsrrassment. 

Insoectors at shipoinr.; points are !1Uite o!'ten. in a oosition ';o see 

a larP.;e· percentar,e of the comnodi ty in a carload mci a.<> it is beinP; run 

throunj'J the packing house. '.hder such circumsta'1ces , the kno:iledr,e. thm 

l;aine1 should be mentioned in the L'1snector's nctes a'1ct he may testify 

accordinP.;ly fro:n information in the notes. 

('lf3) Inspectors should ~1"(} ~....inst beinp.; drawn into wmer.::essar:v or unrequested cmression of ccnclusiom; or ooir1ions. Ordin,..ril.v the opnosinp; 

attorney 1~ould ob.ject to a question 1esismer:l to lead to a'1 emression of 

opinion or statement of a conclusio:-~. However, many attorneys il.l"C so 

unfamiliar with the produce trade that they may not realize the exact 

!Jurport of a question. If the insnector reali?.es that his P-'1:J<ler would co:-~stitute a'1 expression of ooinion or statement of a conclusion, it is 

su17,ested that he pref.<.lce hi~ ans~1ers with some such .statemei'Jt as: '''That 

is a matter of opinion·• or "That calls for a statement as to my conclusion." 

Thi>: ~rill provide an onoortunity fo!' ob.1ectton anr:l helo to a•1oi1 being; 

cL."'a:</!1 into inproper discussions. If r>roperly 'lual'!. fie::! as a wit:1ess, 

ha:1ever, the ~nspector has conside::-ablc latitude i•1 the emression of· h:ts 

0ninion along; the l:!._rle in Nhich he is sha.</!1 to be m exnert. 

( 9?) If the inspector is asked as to the specific11.t ions 0f a n;rade, '1e 

should not volunteer discussion or exnlanation of t'1e s'?ecificattons. I~ 

as!<ed specific <:!Uestions rep;ar.dinn; such specifications,· thev should be 

ans~ered, if ~ossible, but the insne:to::- sholld avoid bein~ dra~n into a 

discussion. 

' <:· 

' 
- 23-

In the parag;raDhs which follow there are outlined anrl briefly dis- ( 10'1) 

cussed the packaa;e markin11; reauirerrents for food in nackaa;ed form under 

the "'ederal Food, Dru~ and Cosrretic Act annroved .Tune 2'i, 1q3'l. ~e Act 

re-;· •.ires the containers of food in nackaa;ed form to be marked whh: 

• 1. The common, or usual name of the food. 

2. The name and place of business of' the manufacturer, 

packer, or distributor. · · 

·3. An accurate statement of the quantity of contents in 

terms of weiP.;ht, measure or numerical count, or a 

combination of numerical count and weiP.;ht or measure. 

r·larkinll: requirements pertain alike to all containers re~less of (l 01) 

size. The required information must anpear on t~e label or on the container prominently and ~lith such conspicuousness a11d in such terms as to 

render it likely to be read a11d understood by the ordinary individual 

tmder custCJ!lla!'Y conditions of purchase. The reouired information rrav 

apoear on ta~ instead of upon labels orinted or stenciled on ba~, provided the tagp are securely affixed to the bagp and that they contain the 

required information in a conspicuous and le&!;ible man11er. 

Open containers are sub,iect to the sarre oackap;e markinG: requirerrents (102) 

as closed.containers, except that (1) containers of not more than one 

dry ~uart canacitv are exempt, and (2) containers of a shinment moving 

interstate to a processing plant are exemot when certain conditions are 

rret. 

The common or usual narre of the food. may not be reauirerl in the case (1'13) 

of a co~on fruit or vep;etable in an open container or in a container 

such :1.5 ,m 0pen net bar>; since the n8.ture of the contents is obvious. 

A state11ent of ··.·1eif'tlt shall be in terms of the avoirdunois pound ( 10~) 

and ounce. A statement of liquid measure shall be in terms of the 

United States 11;a~.lon of 231 cubic inches and the quart, oint and fluid 

ounce subdivisions thereof. A statement of dry measure shiill be in term::; 

of United States bushels of 2150.112 cubic inches and the neck, dry 'lU'l.rt, 

a.'1d dry pint, subdivisions thereof; or in te:t'rffi of the Unitec'i States 

standard barre 1 and 1 ts subdivisions of third, hal r, a'1rl three-'"!uarters 

barrel. However, in the case of Fm exnort shioment, th(~ <otate!llent mav be 

in terrm of a system of weirl1t or measure in common use in the country to 

which such shipment is exportec'. 
- ?II -

( 105) The comnodity must co'l!Ol:V ;~ith the m'lrked net contents at t~E~ <cimc 

the lot or shiprrent corres within the .juri:>diction of the .1\ct. "herqro~, 

the words, ''\~hen packed" are sunerfluous in 'ln;/ nar:dnP: of content~. 

Allowance should be made L1 packin~ oroducts which ~e liqhle to chqn~ 

in weight, so that the declaration or net 1-.rei~t~t will he true at th~ tl."l: 

the nroduct becorres sub,j ect to the one ration of the law. Shinne~ m:l 

f;I"'Wers JM,V be advised that rrarldng; like the followinf\ 'U'e accentahle: 

"Net weill]lt lbs. , " " lbs. net ~1eiP.;ht ,'' or "'·let cnntents 

1 bushel." 

(106) A grade markinp; is not rer)ilired hut rrust be correct if' !llil.de. 

(107) Licensed shippin~ ooint fruit and ve~table inspectors have no resnonsibility for the enforcement of this Act, but they should renort cases o~ 

misbranding as instructed in nara~anhs 110-118 •. ShipnL'1P.; noint insryectors 

should call to the attention of ll7'0Wers, packers and shiooers, the marking; 

requirements of the Act and recorrrnend that where they are doin12; interstate 

or export business, steps should be taken to nrovide labels 'l!1d b'l'\'1 

properly printed with the necessary markings or othe~~ise have their containers properly marked. · 

(108) 'Ihe complete ·text of the Act is availabie in a lj8-pa~ circular, 

S.R.A., F.D.C. 1, "El:ERAL 'FOOD, DRUG AN'T) CflSJIE'I'IC AC'r A'!D GENERAL RF.11\TLATICNS FOR ITS ENFORCEME"lT, available for 35 cents oer cooy from the 

Superintendent of Docl.ll'lents, Washington, 'D.C. '~<'ood brandinP.; requirements 

are covered en pages 13 to 18 of the circular. · 

( 109) In addition to the foreo.;oinp;, all markings nade nandatory b)! State 

regulations should be observed. In case of shipments destined for Canadct, 

refer to the Canadian Import Requirements circular t'or infornation as to 

required narkings. 

PERISHABIE AGRICULTURAL COMMJJ!)ITIES Ar:Jr 

(110) Inquiries. The P.A.C.A. is a 'F'eckiral law rep;ulating interstate a'1d 

forei~ trade in fresh fruits and vegetables. 'Ihe law requires dealers to 

be licensed under the Act and establishes rules of conduct and orocedure 

for the industry. Disputes between buyer and seller nay be arbitrated 

under the Act. Shippers , when they have trouble delivering cars which 

have been inspected at shipoing points, sometirres ask inspectors to whom 

wires of complaint under the P.A·.c. Act shculd be sent •. Such conmunications should be sent to the Rep;ulatory Branch, 'F'ruit and Ve~table 

Division, U.S.D.A., Washinll;ton, D.C. or to the nearest Rerr.ulatorv Branch 

representative. 
- 2'i -

InspP.ctors should not attermt to advi:>e !'".rowers or shiDners A.!l to ( lll) 

their rigpts under the Act or ."ltternnt to intemret its orovisions. 

:·!either should thev ::!SS\lllE the resnonsibility of transmitting the com:-

nlaint or inouir.v of a p;rower or shinner. Such parties s'1r·•.lld be ::idvised 

to cO!!I!T4.ll1icate direct with the nearest 1\egulatory Branch renresentati ve. 

His address can be obtai:~ed from t'1e Fedeml sunervir;or. 

1-'lisbrand.ing. It is also unla:t~ful under t'Je P.A.C. Act for dealers ( 11?) 

to rilisbra'1d fresh fruit and veP,etables a~ to JV'l.de, size, oack, wei$t, 

state of orip;:in, etc. 

NotirY "lesocnsible Party and Record en ~·lotes ~/hen. Lot is "-'lisbranderl. ( 113) 

'lnecial notification shall be p;:iven to the resnonsible nerson .illiiTI')dhtelv 

uoon cornnletio:~ of insr:ecticn for a.•w branded lots 1~'1ich do not rreet ti-Je 

~de ~>rlced on the contai'1er. The insoector shall e:~ter on the notP. 

sheet the following staterrent: ''I inforrood · \ 11mer or shiooer, j r nossili le , 

that this lot wa.<J misbra:1ded nt 

or other resoonsiblenerson) (Hour) 

on by -n;~== :--::=-"".--=::t:-:::-;-=-:==c:o:--,::-- TDater- (":'e leo hone call, verbal s tA.terrent, or 

!f . 

... soeci fy other means) -

13e sure to notify the .<Wove at cnce·so he will have the infornntion (1111) 

before the car or ·truck is shil;'lned. 'This statement should not be renortcd on the typed certificate, but is !leeded on the note sheet to A.Ssist 

in the successful nros.ecution of mlsbrandin~ ca.'les a.'lrl •.'1111 be:1efit the 

··fuspector Whl'mever his testimonv is required for such cases. Under norm~Ll 

·· circwnstnnces this entr.v should not be made i r the insnector kno•tiS that ti1e 

lot was re;;r,raded or the incorrect p;rade marks •-1ere obliterated before 

c;hipment. If he has alread,y notified the resnonsible nerson Gnd .'ll!l.de the 

entr.v prior to such action beim~ taJce11, he si1ould add a st?..tem-mt to the 

~sbrandi!lg notification rem"lrl<s savinp; that the!'e hrtd be"n recy-CJ.di '1'>; or 

obliteration. Also, if fo11cuinr>: notification, the misbr>ar1r:ler1 l.,t i!'l 

shinned, the insoector should enter the date of shir:xnent, car or true!< 

llce~se nt.unber, and ;my other nertine'lt information that h,~ ma•r have. 

Occasionally lots of sweet potatoes, potatoes, onions and other nroducts are 

n:'tcked in containers so weather beaten, stained, raq;~d lookino;, with 

colors faded, size markin~ old and often not annlicable to the contents 

oacked thet'ein. The labels are also old, fadec:l., somewhA.t tom but read2.!:lle 

e1nd may refer to several states which oack the p-roduct !:leing offered for 

sale. PACA has ruled that such lots sho11ld :1ot be handled ::1s misbranded 

under the meanin~ of Section 2(5) of the Act. 
- 2(} -

( ll'J) ·rot i fy the l1eP.;Ulato~ Branch o" MisbiWldi:"l..; Cases. All rrrl.shrnn::iin~ 

cases -at shipnTno; T)oht ~~hfch arc <ietecterl in t'Je rep;ul'll' course of 

T)erforntinr; inspections should be renorted bv leased wire or 0 • B.S. if 

available otherwise by cor.mercial wire to the (:hief, tlep:ulatory Branch, 

"'ruit and Vep;etable Division, Consumer and 1·~9I'ketin~ Service, U.S.D.A., 

'.vll..'lhimr,ton, D. C. This wire should p;l. ve the shinner' s '"lanE ll..'ld address, 

commodity, brand, ~de or size rrart<:, car or truc!c license number and 

consi>g1ee or· riestina.tion if knoN:J, ra:1~ and aver'l.ge of ~de defects 

consistin~ of: (List defects in order of importance). In sendin~ these 

notices, all lots which exceed t!)P. offici.al tolerance sneci fie·d in the 

~de starvf:ird should be included. CoDies of the Act, and reP)llations 

( ll6) 

(ll7) 

( ll8) 

issued thereunder ma.y be obtained from the above address. · · 

The PACA position is that contents of containers marked for ~de 

rrust also meet the size requirements of that C!;T'I3.de. For instance, size B 

not"!toos or 1-'3/8 inch ml.nimum stock in sacks narked onlv ''U. S. ~Io. 1" 

are rrrl.sbrnnded. If IMrked ''U. S. No. 1, Size B" or "U. S. No. 1, 1-5/8 

rrrl.nimu.rn"' they are not ml.sbranded. But, if branded "U. S. ·~o. 1" with 

ta~ inserted or attached shO'IIing; the smaller size, the misbrandinP; is 

not considered corrected. This ~olies to any .commodity where size is 

specified in the ~de. 

\-!hen the lot does not neet the 12:I'ade marlced on containers, the certificate (whether handwritten or tvnewritten) should show that· it "fails" 

to ~de the marked )ll'ade. \oJhen show:i.nq; oercentag;e of' U. S. ~To. 1 

quality it is incorrect to state only "8'i% U. S. 'To. 1 quality" -show 

''"F'ails .. to ii;I'ade :1. s. 'lo. 1 but contains 85% TJ. S. No. 1 quality''. 

Off-Count Under P.A.C.A. 

Tn considerinR; misbrandlr1J!: as to count, PACA applies the followinf!; 

tolera"1ces: 

(1) When the U.S. Standards do not orovide a tolerance tney 

allow: 

(a) an avera!1;e S% off-count tolerance for the entire lot. 

Individual containers (hilltl s~le) would be oerml.tted to 

contain 10%· orr-count prOvided the avera~ for the entire 

lot is 5% or less; 

(b) when terms such as "approximate count'' or approximately'' 

are used on containers in conJunction with a specified count, 

they will allow an avera~ 10% off-count tolerance for the 

entire lot. Individual. containers (hi$ sa.nple) Will be 

permitted to contain lS% off-count or 1-1/2 times the tolerance provided the avcra!1;e for the entire lot is 10% or less; 
(2) 

- 27-

Consequently "Approx:!Jnate Cotmt" should not be reported 

under the Grade heading. Lots may be reported under the 

Size heading as conforming or failing to conform to 

"Approximate Count" marked. . 

(c) in applying the tolerances under (a) and (b) for 

indiV::.u1.1al containers (high sa.nple) where the average 

for the lot is within the specified percentage, they 

will allow one ccntainer to exceed the higl1 sa.np1e tolerance before considering the lot misbranded. 

When .the U.S. Standards do provide a tolerance for a - specific count but there is no provision for ''approximate 

count" or "approximately", and either of these terms is 

used, they will allow double the tolerance provided in 

the standards. 

When certifying count under a u. s. Standard, the inspector should (119) 

report the range in cotmt or "conforms to lll3.I'ked cotmt" under the "Size" 

heading and report: "Meets (or fails to meet) count as marked" under 

the "Grade" heading. 

When certifying count· under the PACA ruling, such as an "approx. 

cotmt," the inspector should report the range in cotmt or "Conforms to 

marked count'' under the "Size" heading on the certificate but should 

make no reference to count under the "Grade" h~adinp; on the certificate. 

CIERICAL AND OFFICE INSTRUa:I'ICNS REGARDING CEffi'IFICATES 

Typing the Certificate. Certificates are the product of our in- ( 120) 

spection operations and 11;0 to the offices of corrrnercial firms throug;hout 

the indust~, to other Government agencies and are used as evidence in 

court. ·spacing and typinf!; should be done neatly so that they will have 

an -attractive and business-like appearance. 

The snap-out carbon certificate should enable typists to turn out (121) 

legible carbon copies without difficulty. These are bound with black 

carbons so black ribbon should be used in the typewriter. 

When handwritten certificates (such as FV-184s) are used; care (122) 

should be taken to see that they are legible and neat in appearance. 

Rem:m:ber, they also often go to brokers, receivers, bankers or government agencies all over the world. A hard surface should be under them 

when they are being written. Alw~ys check the bottom copy in the set 

after writing the certificate to see that it is legible. A certificate 

that cannot be read is worthless. 
- 213 -

(123) Certificate '1lllliler8. Certificates ':U'e numbered serially. Ever:v 

certificate must be acca+nted for. ~e orinted series letter, if a~v. 

which precedes the number should be included whenever the certificate 

m.urber is typed or quoted. USE CERTIFICATES IN SEliiAL ~IU'IBER - USE 

ID\o/ER \JU!'IBERS FIRST. 

( 124) 'Ihe certificate number should alwavs be typed one space be lot~ the 

orinted certificate nurriler in. the upper comer of the certificate. This 

is necessary so that all conies of the certificate will bear the same 

number as the original in case there is an error in the printed numbers 

on the copies that is not detected by the typist. 

( 12'5) In the process of printin~ the "snap-out" carbon certificates, complete sets are sometimes spoilen and it is not practical to print replacement sets. ?.Je pl'intinl!: order is delivered short. such nurrilers. 

When a pac~ of certificates, as received from the printer, is opened 

in the office that is to use them, they should be checked to ascertain 

that all the numbers indicated en the packages are included. If set.s 

of certificates are found to be missing, the office from which the SUl)pl,y 

was received or ordered should be notified oranotly. 

( 126) Occasionall,y the printing office makes an error in binding the 

original and copies of certificates, and the serial numbers on one or 

:nore of the copies do not correspond 1dth that of the original. \ofuen 

this is note<l before typinf5, it may frequentl,v be correct-ed by moving cne 

or more out-of-place copies to the original:·of tl)e correspondin~ nurrt>er 

a'1d extra copies substituted where the shortag;e occurs •.. A misolacement 

of this kind frequently runs throu¢ several sets of certificates. If 

more than two copies are missin~ from a set, the set should be voided 

rather than substitute a lar~ nurriler of copies. Any set voided account 

incorrect ntirli:Jering should be marked "Voided Account 'JumberL'1g. '' Tne 

State office file must· always be furnished with a coov with seria} 

.number corresponding to that on the original. '!Ynists s"ould form the 

habit of checkL'1g to see that the serial number on ~ach copy a~es with 

that on the origtnal. 

( i27) The extra certificate copies suoplied sometimes ca..rcy a orinted 

serial nurli:Jer with the prefix letter "C". In typing certificates whi-ch 

include extra copies, the serial number of the original certificate rust 

show legibly on all copies as instructed in parn~h 120. The ''C" 
- ?.'l -

series numbers ohould be xxxed out on extm copies to ~voi i confusbr; 

headinr.;s properly alig;~ed wit11 those on the orir;inal <Jnd blue conieG in 

that set. If any question arise ~ to which is the offici'll .'1umber on 

the extra conies which have a nrinted ''C'' serial number in ad:-iit.ion to 

the tyPed serial number, the t;med serhl number of the orif",inal (t~hite) 

certificate is the one which will be used in .all inquiri.es concemi:1~ tt'Je 

certificate. 

Date. This is the date of the comoletion of the insnection, not 

necessarily the date of. the tvninp; of the certificate. ·"'ollow the instructions f",iven in oarn.r;ranh~; 270to 276, inclusive. 

( 128) 

Address of Ap:-Jlicant and Shiooer. The artdress of th~ .'lnnlici.lnt Pl11•1 ( 12'1) 

the shipneiis their Dost office address. "'he inspect:i.on noint, and 

addresses, must include the na~ of the state. 

Arrn.ng;erTEnt of 'l'ext on the Certificate. Ordinarily the text s'1ould (1)'1) 

be lined up on the left hand side ;dth the words "Aonlicant'' and 

"Pro<iucts. ' If the lenr;th of the text under ruw headin~~; ~'1uires more 

space, brin~~; the line over to the left-h~d marr;in. If oossible, double 

space betwee11 the last word in the nrlnted hea1ina; and the riMt Wlrd in 

the typed text which is oooosite· each headina;. Occasion'lllY on" or more 

of the headings "'l'i.Y have to be xxed out and tyned in aP.ai'1 lo•~er or whereever there is spa:::e on the certificate or on the reverse sine of t'1e 

certificate. 

Car Initials and :~unber. 'These should always be checked with those 031) 

on the back of note sheet. '::'11.ke special care not to tram;pose f'ip;ures 

in copying car numbers. Do not use Deriods after the initi::tls. "'he 

initials and numbers rrl9..Y be made more nrominent by spacin~ the initials 

and the figures and leaving ~~o spaces after the initials or by tynin~ 

the init i;3.ls above the numbers. SxruTJDle: n F E 

'1. 4 5 7 7. 

il6rds to be Caoitalized.. Under the headin~ ''Products'' capitali <:e ( 132) 

all letters in the name or narTEs 'of the products. If ~11 letters in the 

narTEs of brands are capitali?.ed, quotation rmrks m"!Y be omitted. l·Jmnes 

of decays usually have first letters caoitalized. The n~s of all 

specific diseases and insect injuries, such as Scab of apple~ a11d notatoe::; , 

Flea Beetle in,jury in ootatoes, etc., should be canitalized 0.11 the· certificate. The terrri "'insect in.1ucy'' should not be ca,ital:l.zed since it 

is a general term and does not n;'L~ a· snecific insect. '".'le teMJ ''internal 

breakdown" of apples should not be canitalized since it rrav be due to 

rrany causes. 
- '30 -

( 133) Unner the "nr:1.de" headinr-; cflnitnli~':! all let'tern in the !l:rade na.rre, 

excent where the lot is stated aq failin~ to ~ade. In thP. c~e of combination ~ades, be sure to ccmital.i?.e the 1\."'D, 'tZ -- cor··1'3I'JA.'I'I()\j u. s. 

•·10. ·1 A!JD U. S. :-10. ?; other ·.~ise, confusion m;w re~mlt' in nAlllinP: the 

series of r.;rades found in the load. 

(1311) Anostronhe· rt:trks. In thP. emression ''Loarler 's cmmt ., and 'Various 

r.;rowers' mrtrks" the tynist sho•Jld not anit the orone'!"' <~r>ostro!Jl-Je mar!<~; 

even thou~ they may have b~r. omitted hy the inspector. 

( 13"i) Fip;u~~er..,2?:[Jtage ~'!ar~~· 'F'i.~res should be used in t'le body of the 

certificate. ~actions, in order to be le~ble on all carbon conies, 

should be ;~itten thus: 1/2, 114; never J!, i·· 'The si~:g1 %is nrorerl:v 

used on the certificate to indicate nercent. 1/? of 1~ is to be used; 

not 1/2%, which may be internreted to mean 50":. 

( 135) 3izes. The sizes, counts, or nacks which anpe9.r l'l!1 paclcap;es 'l.T'e to 

(137) 

(138) 

(139) 

be typed without apostrophe mar~~= Thus 9ns to 21Gs, qs to 12s, 4xGs to 

6x6s, 2-ls, 2-?.s and 3-2s. 

Abbreviations. Use these in the body of t'le certHi.c::tte only when cro~1ded for soace except ·•u. S •. , in P;rade naJT!':!s which should .:~.lwa,ys be 

used in the abbreviated form. 

Unused Headinr-;s. 3lock out· r.hus: 

three--or four spaced x x xs. 

1!1/l//l//. Or, follovl with 

Place for Si~atu~- of the ~ector. 'I'yne the n'U!e of the inspector 

.iust belt7.•1 the jotted line so that it will be shown ln carbl'ln uoon the 

copies tmless the certificate is to be si9]1e1 b,, the supervising inspector, 

in v1hic~1 case it should be tynerl above the line. 

Initialinr.; by 'T'vPist. In fl. lara;e office ~~here· several clerks 3.re 

tynin~ certificates, the sunervisor shoul:1 renuire eacl1 r>ersnn tvnine; 

certificates to use an inithl or set of initials which clo not duplicate 

those of another typing in that district and to t:roe this initial in the 

lower left hand comer of each set of certificates which he or she tyoes. 

Cannaring; '!Yoed Certificnte with Ins_pector's :olotes. I+' the insnector 

cannot check the tyoed certificate himself, the t:vnist 3!1d the insDector 

in cha.rr;e or supervisor shoulrt not fail to do this, ':)fl..Vinr.; na.t•ticular attention to car number, nercentap;es, md p;rl'!tle statement, preferably checkin~ 

them a~nst the fig,ures on the back of the note sheet. 
'· 

- 31 -

':lhen ha:Jcl'.vritten certificates (PI!-1811) 'lre used, sunervisors or key- ( 142) 

~n should check each certificate carefully aP.(linst its f1.10'ld notes in 

order to detect errors t'nt rni~t be nnde bv the bsnectors on the 1 ob. 

ifuen rt m:tteri'll error is found, 'l ''Sunerse1ing; Certificate" should be 

issued. · 

;-rnen '1ore 3Dace 'leectecl on the CertificA.te. If insnection .of a car- (143) 

lot covers 61o olrrnore varieties nr brands or a sin~le nroduct and the 

c;;!rtFic'l.tc does not 'l.fford enour11 snace on the face to tyne all the infor•ntion necessary to furnish a cornnlete renort, the original and· all 

conies nhoulri be turned over and corrnleted on the bac1{ with the nroner 

headinq;s. :111en a sint?;le nroduct, variety or brand is entirely described 

on the back, the fnllowin~r, staterrent should be made under a "Remarks" 

headinc: at tt\e bottom of the certificatf!: ·•certificate continued on back." 

' 

If '110re sp'l.ce is needed under only one or two headini?;S, such headini?;S( 144) 

mav he carried over to the back. The oortion of the statement on the certih.cate should be l'ollowed bv the notatim "Continued on back," which 

should bear the sam? headi!1rr, followed by the word "Continued,'' after which 

the re~1inder of the stateMent should be made. 

\1hen a descrintion of the oroducts in a mixed car requires more soace(l45) 

than is available on a sino;le certificate, two or more separate certificates should be issued each coverin~ one or more nroducts depending on 

circuTTBtances. All certificates on such a mixed car should bear a cross 

reference under a ''Remarks'' hearlin~ sOirewhat as follows: "For reports on 

carrots and beets in this car, see Certificate m.tirber- --." 

ISSUA:~CE A.'.JD DISTRmtTriCN 0~<' COPIF..S OF DISPEC'l'ION CERI'IFICATF.S 

Ori~nal inspection certificates shall be issued only to applicants (146) 

or their authori~ed ~nts. Uhder the nrovisions of Section 51.21 of 

S.R.A. 93, Revised, the aonlicant is entitled to four carbon copies of 

the certificate in addition to the orig;inal for the re~lar fee, provided the request is ~~de at time of aonlication for insoection. In most 

areas ~pplicants only req~est the original and one cony except When the 

insoection is under a special program for export. 

At least one cooy or the certificate, accompanied by the corres- ( 147) 

oonding inspector's notes a~d any other papers related to the inspection, 

is to be filed in the State as the State sunervising officer maY direct, 
- 32 -

( 148) The oriP.;inal and copies of tl-:le regular shinpinP.; ooint certificate arc 

(149) 

(150) 

( 1)1) 

(l'i2) 

p;enerallv to be distributed as follovts, however, minor vctriations may be \ 

made when necessnr.v to facilitate operatiofis: 

Ori~nal - to anplic:mt. 

1st carbon to district office file in ca~e the state 

maintains permanent district offices. 

2nd carbon - to apnlicant. 

Rernininp; conies - to be held in local orfice or filed with 

inspector's notes unless asked for bv 

aonlicant, either individually or as a 

blanket request. 

If the certificate· covers a commodity rnovin~ under a ~~keting a~e­

!TEnt, the 5th carbon is mailed b:v the Insnection Service, as ll. matter of 

accommodation to both the control conrnittee and the shipper, direct to 

the ~~a~r of the control committee admihisterin~ the agreement, reducin~ 

by one the conies available for further distribution. Control committee 

conies ·are maile~ under nostage since the ~ers of such committees are 

not H'ederal emoloyees. It is sometimes necessary to type extra conies 

Nhen such nrorvams are involved. 

There ~v be other novernrnent controlled mr~keti~~ nro!V~~ under 

which inspection will be required and a copy of ea~h certificate re0uested 

by the ar;encies 'Thich administer the nroil;!':vn. '!'he H'ederal Sunervisor ·ttill 

issue instructions in such cases. 

Truck lot or. short fom certificates for all Products other than rn?..ri,etin:>; ar.;reemcnts are distributed the same a~ the rePi.llar e~hinning noint certi~icate (See oarall;!'anh 148). 

I" the shinme!'lt includes a mrketing ::tll;!'eement corrrnoditv, the true!-: 

lot certificate is distributed: · 

Orir;in:<J.l 

lst carbon 

?nct carbo.'l 

- to annlicant 

- to state or district office file with 

insoector's notes. 

- to man::t.P.;er control conrnittee. 

file with ir..,, :ector's notes or to 

applicant 1r renuested. 
R~vised Au~~t 29, 1966 - EN 27-1 

- 33-

If the applicant should request additional copies of short form (153! 

certificate, the inspector will have to write out an aclditional srt by 

voiding the original of a second set, with the certificate number of 

the additional copies changed to conform with the original or the first 

set. The voided original should contain a notation that it was voided 

to make, copies; This original and any extra copies should be retained 

in the local files for .auditing purposes. 

roRRECTlNG I VOIDING AND SUPERSEDING CERTIF'ICATES 

In the paragraphs under this heading a distinction is made in the (154) 

handling of correcticns on certificates before and after issuance. 

"Issuance" as 'used here, means the actual delivery of the certificate 

to the applicant or his agent, or others outside the Service. The 

following instructions apply both to typed and handwritten (FV-184) · certificates. 

Minor Corrections Made in the Course of Typing or Prior to Issuance. (155) 

If the correction is not conspicuous and the portion in error is minor 

so that it would not be likely to affect the value of the certificate if 

presented in court, it may be changed by erasure, provided the same typewriter is used as in the original typing; however, care should be used 

to keep such errors to a mininu.tm. Any erasures should be. neatly done. 

The inspector should initial all erasures and corrections. 

Correction of Material Error.s Prior to Issuance. Erasures should (156) 

not be made on certificates where vital parts are involved, such as car 

numbers, dates, percentages and general tenns, or where they would · g1 ve 

the certificate an unattractive appearance. l.hder such circumstances 1 

the certificate should be sta'llped or marked "VOID" across the face of the 

original and all copies and a new certificate typed. Of the voided certificate, one copy should be sent to the usual state files and the 

original and remaining copies retained in the local files for auditing 

purposes. If the state copy has been mailed before the error is found, 

a Notice of Correction (See paragraph 162) must be prepared to advise 

that the certificate has been voided. · 

Corrections After Issuance. When material errors are found in a (157) 

certificate that has been issued, every effort should be imde to recover 

the original and all copies. However, regardless of whether or not the 

original and' all copies are recovered, a new certificate should be 

issued to replace it bearing a new certificate number,· a correction of 

the error and the words "OORREGTED CERI'IF'ICATE" typed in capital letters 

in one of the upper comers of the certificate. Unde:rr a "Remarks" 
- 34-

heading, following the "Grade" heading, the following statement should 

be typed: "This certificate supersedes certificate No. . • " In 

all other respects, including the date, the corrected certificate should 

be identical with the first certificate. Copies of the Corrected Certificate should be sent to all persons to whom the first certificate was 

issued. 

(158) The original and all available copies of the incorrect certificate 

should be plainly marked or stamped across the face: "Sup~rseded by 

Certificate No. .• " (Do not mark VOID). One copy, to eether with 

a Notice of Correction, should be.sent to each of the usual files. The 

remaining copies, together with a Notice of Correction and copies of 

correspondence requesting the return of the incorrect certificate, should 

be retained in the local files. 

(159) After a certificate has been issued, it is not permissible to make 

corrections on the original and/or part of the copies. If corrections 

are to be made, be sure they are made on the original and all copies, and that the corrections are identical. -

(160) Mmlbers of the trade holding originals and copies nrust never be 

directed to make corrections themselves • . (161) Signj.ng or Initialing Corrections. Under sane circumstances, it is 

(162) 

impractical to issue a Corrected Certificate to correct an error. An 

example is an error made in typing an Export Form certificate, the number 

of which has previously been issued on a Memorandum of Inspection. Under 

sudh circumstances the error may be corrected on the original and all 

copies if it is initialed at the place of correction by the inspector or 

supervisor who signed the certificate. When another supervisor approves 

the correction, his full signature and title is necessary at the nearest 

convenient point to the correction. Initials nrust be in the same style 

as the signature - not printed. Soecial care must be exercised to avoid 

the .1ecessity for such corrections. 1

Nhen the file copy has been mailed, 

Notices of Correction nrust be sent to state files. 

Notice of Correction Report. When corrections are made on certificate of which a copy has been sent to the state files, a Notice of Correction Report must be prepared to clearly explain the situation. When 

superseding certificates are issued, they must show the numbers of the 

superseded and superseding certificates and the car :l.nitials and number 

of state lot number, if any. ' 
- 3'i -

"'atices of Co:rrection need not be prenared where the ori'\inal and ( 163) 

all conies, incl.udin11; the state files copies IU"e still in the issuinp.; 

office as they aan be marked or stamned VOID and disposed of as directed 

in paragraph 156. 

TWo copies of the Notice of Correction are Prepared whenever this (16q) 

report i~ n~cessary. One copy is mailed to th~ state offine files and 

one copy is to be filed in the local office files or is to be mailed to the ~ederal Supervisor as instructed. 

Corrections Outside the Originatins District. All corrections on (16'i) 

issued certificates should be made either by the issuim; office or _in the 

office of the Federal Supervisor. In rare _cases, it is necessary that a 

correction be performed by another local office. Such a correction shall 

be made onlY on tele~phic authorization or confirmed telephone authorization from the supervisor in the originatin~ district. A correction on 

a shipping point certif':l cate issued in another state may be made only on 

authorization from the Federal Sunervisor. Usually the certificate is 

' sent back to the state of origin for correction. 

Notices of Correction reportin~ the correction and citin~ the (16~) 

·authority for making it should be nrepared in the office makin11; the correction and , in addition to the regular copies, should be sent to the 

state and Federal Supervisor's files ·L~ the issuing state. 

F'URNTSHDIG REPORTS 

Occasionally a telegraphic request is receiven from a firm in a (167) 

market asking for a report of the shippinJ:!; point 1 nspection of a lot. · . The questfbn arises in such "'- case as to whether the re<JUestinll; firm is 

entitled to receive the information. If the firm making the request has si~ed a contract to purchase the lot, has accepted delivery of it, or has 

taken any other action which plf!e;es it in the position of a financially 

interested party,_ the firm is entitled to a report of the shippin~ point 

inspection. If the interest of a firm is merely that of a Prospective 

buyer who has not sir,ned a sales confirmation or contract to buy, it is 

not· entitled to receive information from the inspection of the lot in 

question. · · 
- 36 -

(168) If the applicant for the inspection can be conmunicated with by local 

telephone or for a small toll charP;e, call him and ask if the inquiring 

market finn is entitled to a report on the shipment. Ir the answer is in 

the affirmative, wire the report of r.he inspection direct (collect) to the 

market firm. If the applicant's answ<;!r is negative, wire the rmrket firm 

(collect) for a statement of their financial interest. If such interest 

is 'not adequate, the report should be <..e,rl.ed. In approaching the applicant in a case of this type. The shipping point office is seeking cnly 

reliable informaticn as to whether the inquiring rmrket firm has or has 

not a financial interest in the car or shipment. The permissicn of the 

applicant to 11;ive the report to the market finn is not necessary if the 

market finn has established a legal financial interest in the shipment. 

( 169) In any case where. a wired report of a shipping point inspection is 

( 170) 

( 171) 

( 172) 

made, the office making the reoort is entitled to mail a copy of the certificate to the requesting firm, together with a bill for the established 

fee. Copies of all wires and letters in connection with a certificate 

should be attached to the file copy of the certificate that is attached 

to the field notes. 

FURNISHING ADDITIONAL CERI'IFICATE COPIES 

A person, other than the applicant, requesting copies of a certificate 

should have the same qualificaticns as to financial interest as one requesting a wire report. · 

When requests for additional copies are received prior to typing the 

certificate, additional copies ~Y be inserted and typed along with the 

original. If the mmoer of copies needed are in excess of those that may 

be typed with the original or a request for additional cooies is received 

q.fter the ori~nal is typed, a second typing may be made, Copies in 

addition to those in the set with the original shall be made on blue extra 

copy sheets of the correspondin11; kind of certificate. This typing shall c:..n~f ~he typed nUl!Der and date of the ori~3.1 certificate. (See 

pa."<!graph 124). 

Lost Ori~al, ~ for Extra Copies. When a request is received 

for "another ~ gl.nal~ a certificate because the "first· original" has 

been lost, the applicant should be advised that there can be only cne 

..,original." The only acticn the Ins-pecticn Service can take is' to issue 

one or more copies, according to the prodedure described in the preceding 

paragra.oh, or to attach to a copy of the first typing a white slip with 

the following statement: 
- 37 -

'lliis is a carbon copy of certificate ---r----,--r--- coverin~ car 

(muriler) 

, a like carbon copy of which is in the official files 

--,(,...n_UiliJ...,...,e""r"")-

of this office. 

(Si€71ed).'------.;;u::<;":".------- (Title) 

'llie charge for extra cnPies shall be in accordance w1 th the state's (173) 

:Jchedule of charges for shipping point inspection service. 

'Pl.Jm.ISHING CER1'IF'IED COPIES OH' CEffi'IFICATES 

A certified. copy of a certificate is one that is certified by the (174) 

Secretar.v of Agriculture as bein11; a true and COI!Pared · coo:v of the off'!cial 

ccipy on file. 'llie applicant for such a certificate should be advised that 

such -certification is done in Washinp;ton, D. C. If the applicant sends in 

a copy there will be no charge for havin~ it certified. If the Inspection 

Service has to provide the copy, .the charge will be $2 .2'5. 

HANDLING CERTIFICATIOO SUPPLIES 

Accounting for Cert:lficate Forms. All certificate forms must be ( 17'5) 

accounted for to both the Federal and State Deoartments b:v.reference to 

the serial i1U11Ders. When a certificate nust be invalidated for anY 

cause, the original and all copies should be marked or stamped on the 

face in large letters either ''VOID" or "SUPERSEDED BY CERTIFICATE 

No. ," as the case may be. · 

Records of the receipt and distribution of all serially numbered (176) 

forms should be maintained by all insnection offices within the state. 

wnen blocks or books of numbered certificates or other serially numbered 

forms are received or issued to field offices or to indi viduai. inspectors , 

.the records kept must l!Bke +t possible to locate a ll;iven nU!IiJered form at 

any time, or to place responsibility if it cannot be located. Such forms 

should be carefUlly checked when received to make certain that the 

receipt corresponds to the manifest or requisition. Missin12;, tom and 

mutilated certir'icates 'must be recorded as well as usable ones. 
. - 38-

(177) Distribution of Certification Suoolies. In handlin~· of accountable 

.joint Federal-State certification fbrms, a certain orocedure should be 

followed because of (a) the necessity that forms be available at all 

times at many ooints (b) the desire of both State and Rederal accountin~ 

a~npies that the use of forms may not be spread out over a lon~ series · 

of nu1nbers with many intermediate serial numbers remair>in~ unused for 

extended per~s. It is also desirable that there shall be no interdistrict transfers of fraf1!Entary lots of unused certificates. Any certificates which cannot be used within the district to which originally 

allotted by the time other closeby numbers ·have been used elsewhere.in 

the state, should be sent to State headquarters for redistribution. 

(178) In some states all certificates are tyoed in two or three offices. 

In others, the offices are seasonal and all supnlies go back to the headquarters office when the season is over. In such states there will be no 

difficulty in distributing certificate forms and using them without 

serious breaks in numerical sequence. In each state where certificates 

are allotted to a number of offices, a plan should be worked out so that 

all offices ·will be issuing reasonably close seria.l numbers at a given 

time. 'Ihis will involve more frequent allotment of suonlies, especially 

to those offices which put out a small number of certificates. 'Ihe 

distribution of certificates in each state must also be worked out with 

fUll consideration of state requirements a3 to·the accountin~ for such 

documents. 

(179) 'I'he .1oint Federal-State forms which must be accounted for to both 

the. Federal and State Departments are: All rep,ular certif'icate forms, 

the truck lot form, or any numbered short form certificate, a~d cooies 

wit'1 serial nurnbers prefixed by c. 

(180) A."l i"lspector who must keep detached sets of handt'i!'1.tten forms or 

short form certificates with him, will find that if they are placed betwee~ about· four cardboard backs from certificate pads of other stiff 

orotecti ve material held to~ther with two of about si?.e 61; :•l?.«t:l.c ba:1cs, 

and enclosed in a 9-1/2 x 12 FDA craft envelooe, the forr"l.'$ will remain 

in good condition for use. When this fmm is to be written, one s~t · 

should be. removed from the pack in which H is carried and the set clipoed 

next to the metal of the inspector's clio board. Do not atterrr>t t" 

write this form over other papers. 
- 39 ~ 

Keeo A.ccoW1table Fo:rm> in Locked Storage. It is recOill!rended to all ( lill) 

offices and individuals of the joint Federal-State Inspection Service 

who have b J.ank certificate forms in their care'· that reasonable care be 

exercised. a¢nst such .fo:rm> being stolen or .fallin~; into the hands of 

persons·tlnauthorized to receive or have·such forms in their possession. 

Where facilities permit, the reserve storage 'or nurrbered certificate 

forms .should be kept in :ocked stor-a~;e, oniv the pads in current use . bein\1; kept en the desk. 

Preservation of Certificate·"'iles.. It is a Federal requirei!Ent (lll2) 

that a copy of any Federal document in connection with the issuance of 

which a fee is charged, must be kept in the office of is.sue at least 5 

years. Official. certificate files in the State IIIUst he preserved 5 vears 

. fran date of issue, after which they ma.v be destroyed. 
- 40 -

PARI' II 

.twaNG THE INSPEC'i'IOO AND KEEPING NarES 

(183) ~lin$.· Adequate and representative samplin~ of a lot is vitally 

irrportant to accurate certification. Without such samplil:ll, the certificate 1!13.Y be in error regardless of how well the relll3.inder of the 

inspection is made or how well the certificate may be written. More shippin~ point certificates arc reversed· in the marketR because the 

sarrples on which they were based were not representative of the lot tha'1 

from any other cause. 

(184) It is essential that samples for inspection be proper~y representative of the entire lot. Proportionate numbers of samples should be taken 

from each grower's lot, variety, brand, grade or other lot desi~ation 

in a car. When the inspector's station is at the end of a packing line, 

as in vegetable sheds or fruit packing rooms, sorter or packer nunbers 

should be considered in selecting samples. If one half of a lot is 

uniformly good and the other is distinctly inferior, an equal number of 

scores should be taken from each half. An average figure '1/0Uld not be 

representative if a greater number of samples were scored from either 

half. However, it mipttt t.e necessary to examine, without addini!; to the 

scorings, a greater nllllDer of sarrples from the poorer half to determine 

that the samples scored were proper~y representative of the lot. When 

inspections·are made of lots blocked out in a warehouse or stora~, 

samples should be selected from lower l~yers as well as from the ·readily 

accessible top layers. 

(185) When the inspection is made after the car is rartly or completely 

loaded, containers to be sampled should be taken from various locations 

in the car or lot ·and should include containers from the lower layers 

and from stacks nearer the bunkers as well as from the mre readilv 

accessible upper layers or stacks near the doorway. Inspectors should 

always have in mind the possibility that selected oacka~s may have been 

placed where they would be most available as samples. 
Revised December 1988 BN-103-7(a) 

40(a) 

****The inspector is responsible for seeing that the product .is 

representatively sampled and for maintaining the integrity of the sampling 

process. While it is desit~:..le that an inspector puE his,'her sampies, 

except in cases where the inspector.oversees the sampling process, the 

inspector must always select the samples. In areas where product is staged 

in cold ·storage rooms, .on stacking racks, or palletized, the inspector may 

stamp or mark. packages which he/she has selected as samples and 

packinghouse or warehouse personnel may physically obtain such packages and 

bring them to an inspection area for the inspector.  

(186) 

** **Samples which are not selected by a ·licensed aide or .inspector are (186a) 

considered "submitted samples." A certificate covering such samples should 

show under "Number of Containers" only the number of packages provided or 

the weight of the total sample. Do not s~ow the total number of packages 

the submitted sample is supposed to represent. A statement should be made 

under "Remarks" clearly identifying the certificate as being based on 

submitted samples. For example: "Certificate based on samples submitted 

by Henry Smith of the ABC Packing Company."  

Samples From Open Containers. There are many instances when samples 

are taken before packages are lidded ·or closed, but in all such cases notes 

recorded from such samples should be checked carefully with samples from 

lidded containers, as there is a possibility of bruising occurring in 

closing or stacking the containers. In the event of a difference in these· 

samples, the certificate must be based on the samples from the closed 

containers. If rough handling that might damage the product is observed in 

loading, the samples should include packages selected from the load that 

would reflect any damage occurring. 

(187) 

- 41 -

Observations Prior to Packing. Very often the ·inspector is able (188) 

to· observe large quantities of the product being harvested in the field, 

in the packing house in field. containers or as it goes over the sorting 

belts. While the results of such examinations are not shown in detail 

on the score sheets, it is very important that they be made whenever 

possible. They will assist the inspector in selectin~ representative 

samples and unusual conditions should be noted on th~ score sheet. This 

is intended to supplement, not reduce, the regular sa.IqJllng. The ~de 

must be based on the analysis of actual selected samples and not on an 

estimate made from watching the sorting belts or bins. 

Nurrber of Sa.1ples. No definite rule can be laid down as to the (189) 

number of s~les which should be examined because of the variations of 

conditions that may confront the inspector. A straie!tlt carload of one 

variety and ~de put up by a single grower will obviously need less 

sampling than a carload containinp; a mixture of varieties, grades or 

127'0V1ers' marks. Any sa.IqJle that differs materially from the other should · put the inspector on wamin~ that the lot is ·irregular and that more 

samples should be taken. The responsibility rests with the inspector, 

under general instructions from his Federal Supervisor, to examine enou!!tl 

samples to assure himself that the certificate he issues will accurately 

describe the entire· lot. It should always be kept in mind that the smaller 

the nunt>er of sa.IqJles examined, the less chance exists for correctly 

determining the range of· variable factors and the true average for the 

lot. A larger nuni:Jer of smaller samples will usually give a more accurate 

average than a fewer number of large sa.IqJles • · 

Lots Bordering on the Tolerance, Wheri the inspector, after (190) 

examininp; the usual nuni:Jer of sa.IqJles, finds the average of defects equals 

the maximum ~de tolerance permitted or slightly exceeds this tolerance, 

he should, if at all.possible, examine more sa.IqJles so that the lot may be 

put definitely in or out of gmde. Shippers ~ometimes beccme quite 

critical when lots are reported out of ~de by only one percent unless 

they can be she-1m that more than the usual nuinber of sazq:,les have been 

examined. 

Additional Samples. Sometimes when the inspector has examined (191) 

the usual number of samples, he may still be in doubt an some point. In 

this case he should examine more sanples, perhaps casually , until the 

uncertainty is cleared up. He should record on the note sheet that such 

further examinations have been made, showing the approocimate number of 

additional sa.IqJles examined. For exanple: When the inspector finds 

some packages which contain the limit of dirt permitted by the grade and 

suspects that some packages may contain more than the limit, he should 

open enough packages to determine definitely whether or not the lot is in 

grade. 
- 42 -

(192) Size of SamJles. No specific rule can.be laid down as to the 

size of samples to be examined. This, like the number of samples, must 

be left to the Jud!1tJ1ent of the inspector sub.ject to the instructions 

issued by his supervisor. It will vary with the type of comnodity, kind 

of containers and the percentage of defects found. It is desirable that 

samples be as nearly uniform in size as possible. However, special container tolerances for percentages of defects in individual packages may 

make it necessary to examine larR;er samples or entire packages. Generally 

no lot should be put out of grade on account of a sample exceeding the 

container tolerance unless the entire contents of the container have been 

examined. In Products where there is an excessive munber of specimens in 

a package such as peas in hampers, onion sets in 50-pound sacks, etc., it 

is impractical to examine the entire contents. In such cases the usual 

samJle should be at least doubled in size. The sane policy applies to 

samples taken from packin~ bins or tables. Always use the term ''samole" 

when only part of the contents of the container is examined, as: "In 

most samples ----, in some samples - . " When the entire 

contents are examined it is proper to name the container as "In most 

sacks ------------, in some sacks - " 

( 193) Selected samples should be accurately counted or weiP,;hed, as the case 

ma,y be, unless tl).e sample is the entire contents of a uniform content 

container. In using barrel type scales, be sure the cylinder wo:r!l:s free 1 y 

in the barrel and that the scales are held by the ring •men the reading 

is rrade . Scales should be checked periodically for accuracy. 

( 1911) Adequate ligtlt is essential to accurate insnections. · In packing 

sheds the inspector's bench, table or station should be placed where ample 

li!l;ht is available. In judging the blanching of celer:v, color of grapefruit and oranges,· or the percentage of color on grapes, it is desirable 

to exa~ne doubtful specimens in daylight before reaching a decision. 

: 19"') Average Sa.ITDle ScoringS. When the size of SamJles is not uniform, 

the percentaR;e of defects should be determined for each sample. The . percentage for all samples should be totaled and divided by the number of 

samples examined in order to determine accurately the average percentaR;e 

of defects for the lot.· When samples are reasonable uniform in size, it 

will be satisfactory to divide the total weigtlt or count of defects by 

the total weight or count or all samples to determine the average percentage of defects. 

196) When the Contents of a Consumer Package is the Unit for Insoection. 

When consumer type packages are packed in rraster containers or shipoing 

cases, the consumer package is the unit for inspection, and it is not 

permissible to dump the contents of two or more of these packages to~ther 

to form the inspection sample, except when the inspection is Jased on 

consumer or other standards which specifically Provide that there is no 

restriction on the nercentage of defects permitted L~ individual nackages 

provided the average is within the tolerance. However, in the case of 
Revised, March 2006, HU-151-7(a) 

Page 43, Para. 19B-19Ba. General Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-43-

such products as cauliflower, lettuce, celery, or other products when one or a few 

· specimens are sometimes overwrapped in film or packed in film bags, trays, or 

other such containers, the contents of the master container shall be considered 

the fruit for inspection the same as for tomatoes which are double wrapped and 

packed in lugs. 

Sampling from Packing Bins. When product is being wrapped, packed, (197) 

and .loaded in so short a time that the inspector would not be able to examine a 

sufficient number of closed containers, it will be permissible to record counted or 

weighed samples selected from p.acking bins, if the circumstances are approved 

by the F=ederal Supervisor. However, some samples mustbe examined after the 

packages are closed to determine if. there is. package bruising and to determine 

the tightness of the pack, arran,gement, and sizing of the containers. A notation 

should be made on the scoresheet indicating which samples were selected from 

bins if this procedure is followed. Containers packed in the inspector's absence 

should always be included when selecting samples. This is of paramount 

importance. 

•••• Cuttina Specimens. It is sometimes necessary to cut specimens in order (198) 

to determine the percentag.e of internal.defects such .as nollow heart of potatoes, 

internal breakdown of onion~. internal browning of apples, concealed worms in 

pears, etc. While it is not the policy of the Service to cut large amounts of 

produc~, .it will be necessary to check the internal quality as a matter of 

procedure. The application for inspection may be rejected if. the applicant objects 

to the inspector cutting an adequate number of specimens to determine the 

interior quality or condition of the product. Unless specific cutting plans are 

outlined in the respective handbooks tne following procedures shall be used to 

determine and record the percentage of internal defects. 

Cutting Policy for Commodities Without Specific Cutting Plans 

During the normal process of inspection, it is the inspector's responsibility 

to randomly cut a sufficient number of specimens to examine the internal quality 

of the product. When it has been determined that internal defects are present 

through this random sampling, in order to promote uniformity of inspection for 

internal defects (without external indicators) the following sampling plans, when 

applicable, shall be used as guide. These plans are to be used for those 

commodities without specific cutting plans outlined in their respective handbooks. 

The percentages of Internal defects shall be based on the cut sample. When it is 

impracticable to apply the following guidelines, it will be necessary to cut a 

sufficient number of specimens, and base the percentages on the entire sample. 

(198a) 
(198b) 

(198c) 

(198d) 

Revised, March 2006, HU-151-?(b) 

Page 43a, Para. 19Bb-198d, General Shipping 

Point Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-43aCutting Procedures and Guidelines 

In order to promote uniformity of inspection for internal defects (without 

external indicators) for those commodities without specific cutting plans, the 

following sampling plans, when applicable, shall be used as a guide. When it is 

impracticable to apply the following guidelines, it will be necessary to cut a 

sufficient number of specimens, and base the percentages on the entire sample. 

Plan A shall be used only for in-line sampling to minimize the cutting of 

unaffected fruit. Plan B shall be used for stationary lots and may be used for inline inspection at applicant's request. Under each plan, the number of 

specimens cut shall be used to compute the percentage of defects for the lot and 

the individual containers. 

Plan A: (For in-line Inspection only) 

When it is evident that internal defects are present in the lot (through the 

normal process of inspection), a random sample offive (5) specimens shall be 

cut from each sample. When any scorable (internal defect) specimen is found in 

the five (5) count sample, cut an additional fifteen (15) specimens for a total of 

twenty (20) specimens in the cut sample, or a total offive (5) pounds for those 

commodities inspected on a weight basis. 

When a cut sample meets the application of tolerances for the commodity, 

no additional cutting for that sample is necessary. When a cut sample exceeds 

the application of tolerances for the commodity, the entire lot represented by the 

sample, regardless of count! size or pack, will fail. 

Whenever any container is found to exceed container tolerances, it will 

only be necessary to cut five (5) specimens per sample for the remainder of the 

samples within the lot. 

Plan B: (For Stationary lots and In-line inspection) 

When it is evident that internal defects are present in the lot (through the 

normal process of inspection), a random sample of five (5) specimens shall be 

cut from each sample. When any scorable (internal defect) specimen is found in 

the five (5) count sample, cut an additional fifteen (15) specimens from the 

sample (total of 20 specimens cut) or a total of five (5) pounds, for those 

commodities inspected on a weight basis. 
Revised, March 2006, HU-151-?(c) 

Page 43b, Para. 19Bd, General Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-43bWhen a cut sample exceeds the application of tolerances for the 

commodity, the cut sample shall be increased to the entire container, or to the 

normal sample size for those com[Tlodities with application of tolerances which 

are based on the sample, in order to determine if the container has met or 

exceeded the sample or container tolerances. 

When It is found that contain~:~r or sampl~ tolerances are exceeded in one 

of the samples, it will only be necessary to cut twenty (20) specimens or a total of 

five (5) pounds in each of the remaining samples. 

Fer those commodities based on ounces or grams, (i.e., Brussels 

sprouts), the cut sample shall consist of at least one hr;ilf of the sample. 

When the sample. is based 011 consumer .. units, the entire sample shall be cut. 

Note: For ln~line inspections It will only be necessary to cut five (5) specimens 

from each of the remaining samples to determine if the lot has passed or failed. 

For Stationary lot inspections shall cut a minimum oftW~nt{{20) specimEms or a 

total of five (5) p~~nds from each.of t~~.rem~jning samples in order to provide a 

more accurate percentage of internal defects. 

WhenexteenaLindicatO'r>fi fg~cinteFnai·Cli!fin:tS' atie present, the 

Inspector shan cut the susplcleus·specimens as necessar,y arid base the 

perceritafi~es''on'tll'ij;eritire~aniple.' '· ·. · · · · · ** ** 

Avoid Gausing.lncon:v:enience-ln -Making·lnspeotians. When (199) 

inspectior.~s are:maCi.lerrch:rriA¥) the prb'cess ofloadl\'lg, fh~ insp~ctor should avoid 

unnecessary inlefference' with the loading operaqon. He 'should ask shippers to 

furnish Information regarding insp.ections, which .they will request, far enough in 

advance so that it will not be necessary to disturb the portion of the car already 

loaded In order to obtain samples. However, thoroughness must not be 

sacrificed for fear of causing inconvenience. Some shippers may try to 

stampeded the inspector for rapid loading in order to reduce·the number of 

samples examined and so make possible the inclusion ofundergrade products. 
(200) 

Revised August 10, 1973 BN-3(a) 

- 411 -

Inspectors' Notes. Each certit'1cate is to be based cr1 notes made at 

the tine of the iliSpecticn. Pr1nted note sheets (1n nany areas bo~md 

1nto pads) are f\lmi.shed so tha~ the notes .may be kept 1n a standard1zed 

and orderly manner. All sheets or slips upcn which such notes are made 

· bee~ or the permanent record or the 1nspecticn and should be 

attached to the copy or the cert.1t'1cate wtdch 1s retained 1n the Nles 

of the State. . . 

(201) All notes llll8t be legible and ao COfllllete and clear in nean1ng that 

av perscn with a knowledge of 1nspec:ticn woric could write the certiricate 

rran these notes without havinli: perscnally made the 1nspectten. Be 

aw-e all iteDS covered by the certin.cate are· recorded, all cOIIDUtatims 

clearly and accurately sllown, and no essential data overlooked. All 

this 1ntornat1cn should be carefully checlced before be~'!: to write 

the certif'lcate. When note sheets, subpoenaed by the court or called 

for 1n P.A.C.A. cases, are ~lete, accurate and neRt, they are a cred.it 

to the. service. A ra k!pt 'note sheet 1s alna:lst prine !'acte ev1cjence 

or a csreless ·inspect en. · . . ., : . 

( Z01a) • Tile Federal Superv1 sor may author1 ze the use of master note sheets provided * 

(202) 

(203) 

• tnat suitable cross-referencing procedures are followed. * 

!7tra~~11It will be necessary ror the new inspector 

to . ~ sane experienced 1nspector 1n the preparatia'l or h18 score Sheets. en certa1n products special instructions 

are proVided 1n the Produ¢;.1!!~.~ or Will be t\.Jm1shed by the suoerVisor. Aid 1s provided 1n sone Gtates by printing the head1n,s at the 

top of the :icore sheet ar by prov:1d1nP.; caption stllllt'S. It would be 

:1mpract1cable here to give caaplete instructions coverinp; ·all .the problems 

the inspector may encounter, or to t\lmish e~les of ~lete score 

sheets that would apply to all products. sane or the more ilq:)Ortant 

factors or seneral application to all products, with 1nstructtc:ns ror 

assisting 1n malc1nlr; a ccnc1se and conplete note sheet, follow 1n the 

next .. parllgJ'Bilhs • 

Recording the Scor1np;s. '!.be 1nfoornat icn recorded en the :score 

sheet Ili the basis en Which the certir1cate is written. The t1nd1ni!;S 

mu:~t be accurately reported a1 .the score sheet by ca111t, weip;ht or 1n 

general terna, depending en the !'actor involved. '!he head1n,s ~rally 

required will be those cover1np; the aize or the :o;arq>le examined, deca.v, 

different ldnds or derects ( orten each hav1n~ a separate cr>lurm and head1n~!;) and such ractors as size (which IIEI.V include unt fonni t.V or ran~~;e), 

color, cleMness, I!Bturtty and pack. 'n1e headin,s rnll.V vary considerably 

w1 th different products and lt saretl.nr?s may be necessary to split 

certain headi.n.o!;:l int ' sub-headi•li!:S. Por e~le, Where the J>;!"ac'le pro vi rles 

d1ffel"'Bnt tolerances ror sort rot and chjl types of deca•:, these will have 

to be Us ted in separate colunns. · In handltnp; product~ wh{>~ the P;rade 

provides a smaller tolerance ror serious dana.l;e, the seri'."l~ defects, 

when present, nust be recorded separately from the minor der~cts. Undo;>r 

the size ractor too, a column ror undersize, Romct1~s rur ove~i~e. ~d 

very orten colUIIT'lS showinl!; the "size ran~" and the "rrc::;t lv" 'U'e !'e'1u1red. 
- 4'i -

Somewhat similar conditions exist in re~rd to the color headin~. but 

maturity, clearmess and n3.ck st? ldom require rrnre than one column, oarticularly where syrmols and lette~:> are used in the interest of brevity 

and to indicate proportions and degrees. 

'!he oreoaration of the score sheet bt?COrlER considerCJ.hly mol"'~ com- (?nil) 

nlicated where there are a number of ~owers' lots, varieties and ~ades, with possibly a combination ~de. ~lso additional headinP,P 

may be necessary where Stnte re~Stllatorv laws require the correct rnarkinp; 

of r::tckaP,es 'md the 'loplicant desires to know the 12;1"ade and si?.e he 

should mark on his containers in case the ori~nal markin~ are incorrect. 

Symbols Sup;r;ested H'or Use on Score Sheets. In order to conserve ( ?O'i) 

space and to speed makin~ of notes, the followin~ abbreviations 'lre 

SU2;P,ested to be ust?d on score sheets. Simil.'lr svrri:lols mav be develooed 

by the inspector for other factors. 

Pack: 

Size: 

Color: 

Maturity: 

T, 'Pt, or S ( tirmt, fairly tiP,tlt or slack) or 

'II, "" or S (well filled, fairly well filled or slack). 

U, 1<\l or I (u.·T!.:form, fairly uniform or irrePUlar). 

G, Lo;, Ya; or Y (g;reen, lipt!t ~en, 'lellowish-tl;reen · 

or yell<Y.'I') 

H, '<', ""r, '1 or S (hard, firm, firm rine, rioe or soft). 

The more preValent condition is indicated Pirst and leSS frequent in their 

order. 

To indicate the portions of a SaJll)le, the follol'linp; symbols are (:206) 

sup.;p;ested· 

Si7.e: 

The use or a sin~le letter indicates the conditlon to be ~neral. 

A circle around the letter indicates ''mostly''. 

A double U.'1derlining of tlie letter indicates ''many''. 

A sin~le underlininr,; of the letter indicates ''some". 

~/hen two letters are used with no svrrbol, the first letter indicates 

''cymerallv" and the second ''few." 

F:xarrples: 

® L s 

r:-rat urity: ® "" ""r 

(Mostly ITEdlum, many lara;e, fel'l' smll). 

(Mostly hard, some firm, some firm ripe). 

Pick: (r.enerallv fairly tiP.tJt, few slack). 

Color: 

'Pt-S 

r,r, 

n 

(r.enerally green) 

(!i!'een) 

(?07) 
( 208) It is desirable that the above-suP".,~;ested svmbols be used by all 

inspectors, however, others ~m;v be found rrore adaptable or satisfactory ~ 

under some conditions. Re~less of the symbols used, they should be 

uniform as far as practical throu~out a state or lar~r inspection area, 

to avoid confusin~ or conflictin~ internretations when insoectors or 

supervisors. are transferred from one district to another. Uhiformity of 

certificate wording and arr:mp;ement is also dt:!sirable. Such uniformity 

will aid ·the nerson who reviews the inspector's notes before typin~ and 

will facilitate the readin~ of his notes should it be necessary to refer 

to them in his absence at a later date. Uhiformity of wording and 

arranp;ement is also an aid to typists. who frequently JTUst type dozens of 

certificates a ~y. 

(209) Fntries Uhder the Headings Pack, Size, Color, Shape, etc. A record 

for each sarr;:>le should be made on the note sheet under the proper headings as they apply to the conmodity. Ditto or check narks nay be used 

when the notation is th~ same as in. the last sample, however, the inspector should not become careless tn his use of such marks, but should 

be sure to record any variation in the samples by means of symbols. Carelessness in the use of check or ditto marks often will cause inaccurate 

certification. 

(210) IdentiryL~g the -Product and Container. With a few exceptions the 

type of container, style of pack, variety and gmde should alwa.vs be 

recorded at the top or at sane other place on the score sheet. In some 

instances , headed columns should be provtded for these factors • However, 

where such i terns are generally uniform throughout a district (such as 

container and pack of northwest winter pears) such headings are not 

necessary unless they vary from the ~neral condition. 

(211) Check Items at Bottom of Score Sheet. Most note sheets have headings 

printed on the back near the bottom for car and load description~ labels, 

sizes and summaries of pack, color and maturity as well as for grade 

and time. This portion of the note sheet should always be filled in while 

making the inspection. When oral report is i!;l. ven to apnlicant, in lieu 

of. written preliminary report at colq)letion of inspection, notation 

should be mde on inspection work notes as to hour, date and person receirlng; information. Example: Reported to John Doe 10:00 a.m. 

4/2/59. 

(212) Recording the Car Number. It is imperative that car numbers should 

be correctly recorded. Errors in recording car nUI!Ders are inexcusable. 

Note sheets usually have spaces an the back and on the frOnt indicated 

for car nUI!Ders • 'lbe inspector must enter the nurriJer in all places provided on the note sheet while readin~ the number from the car. Care must 

be taken not to transpose fie;ures. When the inspector writes up his 

notes, he should CO!l\-·are the nu.rbers in the various places on the note 

sheet and . if differences are found, he should immediately check to determine the correct number. 

·. 
Revised, May 1992, HU-114-6(a) 

Page 47, Para. 214 & 215, General 

Shipping Point Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-47-

The car number to be recorded is that on the side of the car. (213) 

If a different number appears on the inside of the car (which may 

happen if the car has been repainted and a different number painted 

on the outside), it should be recorded on the notes for the 

inspector's protection in the event of disputes. Usually the . 

correct initials and numbers appear on both the sides and ends of 

the car, but in some instances the official initials of the car do 

not appear on the side. In such cases the initials should be 

recorded from the end of the car. Do not use the nickname of the 

railroad. 

**** Recording Growers' Marks or Lot Numbers. When present, (214) 

growers' marks, lot numbers, or packing house code numbers should 

be recorded next to each sample. This is usually done in the' first 

column ·on the left of the notesheet. A record of the number of 

containers in each lot is desirable, even when all are the same 

grade. This information usually can be obtained from the warehouse 

or manifest, or the inspector may get an approximate estimate by 

observing the containers as they are loaded or coming off of the 

p~cking line. This enables the inspector to give proper weight to 

the lots when sampling and writing the notesheet and certificate. 

samples from each lot or code number should be grouped together if 

practical for ease in computing percentages of defects and 

determining whether representative sampling has been achieved. 

If there is significant. irregularity between such lots (i.e. (215) 

some pass, some fail), this information should be reported to the 

packing house representative or packing foreman. since the meaning 

of many of these markings are not always obvious to the casual 

observer, no attempt should be made to report such results ~s 

separate lots unless specifically requested to do so by the 

applicant. If requested to report the lots separately, it is 

imperative that sufficient samples representative of each lot be 

examined to determine positively the grade of each individual lot 

and that an accurate count of each lot be obtained. Other markings 

such as brands, size, variety, grade, or Positive Lot 

Identification marks must always be reported as separate lots 

whenever there is a significant difference associated with such 

markings (see paragraphs 486 thru 490). **** 

Two or More Products in a Car. If a car contains two or more (216) 

products certified on one certificate, it is usually preferable to 

use a separate score sheet for each commodity rather than to crowd 

a single sheet. The rough draft should be written up on but one 

sheet. The separate sheets should be stapled together before 

filing. 

Time of Scores on Note Sheets. When several trips are made to (217) 

a car during the process of inspection and appreciable time has 

elapsed between trips, the scores made each time should be 

segregated either by drawing a line between them or bracketing the 

scores made on each trip. 
Revised, May 1992, HU-114-6(b) 

Page 48, Para. 217, General 

Shipping Point Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-48-

To the left of the grower mark column for each group of entries 

should be recorded the time and date on which the samples were 

examined. Example: 9!oo A.M. - 10/6-, 2:00 P.M. - 10/6, 8:00 P.M. 

- 10/6-. This record is particularly important when the inspection 

of the car extends over more than one day. When one inspector 

starts an inspection and another completes it, the above procedure 

should be followed with the addition of placing'the initials of each 

inspector opposite the group of samples each has inspected. 

(218) Score Sheets for Combination Grade or Unclassified Lots. 

Inspection of lots involving combination grades or lots where the 

proper grade markings must.be determined, require slightly different 

procedure than for lots consisting of straight grades. In such 

instances, the samples should be sorted or classified into groups by 

grade (U.S. No. 1, U.S. No.2 and defects of U.S. No. 2, etc). 'The 

amount in each group or grade should be entered in a·column with a 

corresponding heading on the score sheet. The defects of the lowest 

grade should be entered under the customary column captions for that 

grade as on an ordinary score sheet. When the inspection is 

completed, the total of the defects and the percentage,of each of 

the upper two or mo~e grades should equal 100%. In some instances, 

it is desirable to record only the u.s. No. ls and thedefects of 

the U.S. No. 2. The percentage of U.S. No. 2 is determined by 

subtracting the total u.s. No. ls and defects of u.s. No. 2 from 

100%. . 

:219) Recording Defects. Generally grade defects, undersize, etc. 

should always be recorded on the score sheet in figures representing 

weight or count as the grade may require. However, these figures 

may be supplemented,by their equivalents in percentages, especially 

if the size of samples is irregular. When the grades, such as 

strawberries and turnip greens, provide for determining defects on a 

volume basis, they should be recorded in percentages. It is 

generally preferable to record fractional parts by the use of 

decimals. Such products as beans and peas and small containers of 

other products may be sampled and recorded in ounces in which case 

ounces should be used throughout. When samples are weighed in 

pounds, do not record fractions in ounces. When there can be any 

question as to the method of sampling, it should be indicated at the 

top of the columns on the score sheet, i.e. pounds, ounces, count .. 

220) If a score is entered on the notes and later the lot 

221) 

represented by this score is removed,. draw a line through the score 

with a short explanation. Do not erase. 

Recording ·Pack. With most products, the inspector has a chance 

to observe the tightness or filling of pack of all or most of the 

containers. He should, if practical, select his samples to be 

representative of the pack as well as other factors. Sometimes this 

is not practical and in such instances he should report the pack 

based on his observation of the true condition of the lot in this 

respect. The notes should explain differences between the sample 

scoring and the actual conditions reported, as: "Additional samples 

examined to determine pack only." 
* 

* * 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

- 49 - Revi.sed September 30, .1976 BN-72-J. (a) 

(222) 

D E L E T E D 

Misrepresentation on Score Sheets. All facts must be carefully (223) 

and accurately determined while the inspection is being made. Inspectors positively must not enter any score on the notesheet unless it accurately 

represents a sample that has been examined a.nd scored by him. Instances 

have occurred, however, where inspectors have set down scorings of samples 

not actually taken tomake it appear that a very thoroug~ inspection was 

made. The filling out of a complete score sheet after inspections have 

been completed for the day when it is not possible for an inspector to 

remember in detail the scorings of the examined samples, even where 

there can be no doubt that a great many samples were actually examined, · is a serious offense· that may result in cancelling the 1 i cense .of the 

inspector. Such a score sheet is a misrepresentation o.f facts. 

Giving Out Information from Score Sheets. The applicant is always * (224) 

entitled to know the grade of the portion of the lot which has already * 

been examined and may at any time be shown thescorings which haVe been * 

recorded, with the understanding that they represent the lot at that * 

time and does not guarantee the final grade. If such information is * 

furnished the applicant before the inspection is complete, it is highly * 

important that he be immediately informed when any later scorings in- * 

dicate that the final report may show definitely different quality or * 

different size than might be expected from the scorings already recorded* 

The score sheet should not be left where those who are not entitled to * 

the information may read it. Prospective buyers are not entitled to * 

such information until they have purchased the lot in question, unless * 

the inspector is authorized by the applicant to give it to them. * 

(See paragraph 62) Scales and measuring devices. should not be used in * 

a manner that wi 11 readily disclose the inspection results to those not * 

entitled to such information. Carbon copies or other copies of the * 

inspector's notesheet may be supplied to the applicant upon specific * 

request and only with the approval of the Federal Supervisor. * 
Revised August 29, 1966;- BN-27-1 

- '10 -

(225) Where a ~wer, packin~ foreman or warehouse ~a~r is inclined 

(226) 

( 227) 

(228) 

(229) 

( 231)) 

to be argumentive over lots which are found below ~ade, the ins~ac~or 

should, if possible, show him the actual defects taken·from the samples 

and show him bv means of the fi~es on the score sheet what must be 

removed in·order to brin~ the lot· within the tolerance. 

ISSUING ~IMINARY m':POR'I'S 

It is a conmon practice of shippers of some conmodities to ask the 

inspector for a preliminary report to be used in wirinr,; an offer to a 

prospective buyer or buyers. ~lhen handwritten certificates, such as 

k'\T-184, are used, prelirronary reports are rarely necessary. '!he issuance 

of a prel~~nary report of this kind obli~tes the'inspector to use care 

to see that this report is consistent with what will finally be included 

in the certificate since for nractical purposes the certificate is issued 

when the preliminary report is given to the applicatnt. · 

An unrestricted preliminary report shall not be made until all 

usual samples for such a si?.e lot of the particular commodity have been 

inspected from the finished packa~s and the "Products," "Size, '"'Pack," 

"Quality and Condition" and "Orade" stat;erents written in final form on 

the note sheet. · 

Preliminary reports in use are ~nerallv one of two types. '!he type 

used in some states consists of a piece of pencil carbon and a sheet of 

plain paper placed beneath the note sheet before writin~ the pencil draft 

of the above headings. This carbon copy is furnished the aoolicant as 

his report. 

In other areas Forms Fll-204 and 206 "Prel1mlnary Inspection Report" 

must be serially numbered. The 'original and 3 copies. are prepared g1 ving abbreViated infonnation as to grade, etc. The original and one copy is g1 ven 

the applicant and the other copies are attached to the inspector's notes. 

The procedures given above apply only to reports requested for use 

in making an offer of sale or for showin~ co~liance with a contract or 

purchase and sale; they do not apply to reports furnished a !;rower or 

shipper for his own information, such as information on how his grade is 

being maintained durin~ ~din>~; or packing O!'erations or hO\~ his produce 

is keepin~ in storage. 
- '51 -

Rr:PORTI'l(l DELAYED WADI'ln 

~~en a lot that has been inspected but held for later shipment is (231) 

loaded, (usually not lo~~r than one to. two days later), the certificate 

will be issued carryin~ the car number and with the "Condition of ·car" 

headinrr, altered t·o read: "Condition of Car at completion of loadin~~; on . " Oonosite ''Inspe~tJ.on begur.'' :and "Inspection com- r.>l'"'e:-::t-:e'd;r''~s"'l'"'·.a"l'l-;:-be· reported the actual startin~~; and finishing hours and 

d~tes of the inspection and not the date of loadin~. The inspector must 

personally check the loading and car condition. (See para.grar-;·J 7216). 

Should the applicant later advise that he will not ship the lot on (232) 

which a preliminary report has been issued, or if advice as to shipment 

is not received from the applicant within a reasonable time, a certificate 

should be issued as of a lot in storage. The length of time which would 

be allowed to elapse before issuin12; such a certificate will depend on the 

ccr:m:>dity. The applicant should be advised of the necessity for issuing 

such certificates unless a loading date is given which is near enough so 

that the condition of the product will not have undergone material change. 

The date ai1d time of inspection shown on the certificate should be that 

at which the actual inspection was made, and not the date at which the 

certificate .was t~ed in to the office for typing, or the information 

was received from the applicant. 

mSPEcriOO COHPLE'TED CN A LATER DA'TE 

Sometimes inspections are started on lots that are not completed (233) 

until the next day or several days following the starting of inspection, 

due to slow packing operations, settin~ out and accumulating lots of 

specified sizes and grades or to holding over part cars. In such cases 

the inspector should make every effort to re-examine the previously 

inspected portions of the lot on the day of completion of inspection to 

bring the certificate up to date. The ainount of time before such action 

is necessary varies with the comnodity. The condition of lettuce, berries, 

new potatoes, etc. can change over night while apples and pears in storage, 

old potatoes, etc, will not usually show material change in from 2 to 5 

days, depending on conditons. '!he time from starting to completion of 

inspection permissible without rechecking for condition factors should not 

be more than the product could be reasonably expected to hold without 

material changes. If the inspector is in doubt as to the length of time 

that is reasonable or encounters unusual circumstances, he should· ccnsult 

his 'supervisor, When such a lot is rechecked and brought up to date, the 

time of startin£2; the inspection reported should be that at which the inspection was started an the date of completion of inspection. When factors 

are found to have changed since the first inspection was made, a line should 

be drawn through the notes covering that portion of the load 'and new 

entries made showing the facts 'as found o.t completion of inspection. The 

applicant or his a~nt should be artvised immediately of such change. 
- 52 -

STA'l.'EME:fl'S SUPPIEMENI'ING CERTIFICATES 

(234) Inspectors are cautioned against making statements subsequent to the 

issuance of a certificate which report information not substantiated by 

the notes of the inspection. For exMI!)le, where an inspection has been 

rm.de to report conc\tti.on or s.:.ze only and scorings of ~de facton .rere 

not rm.de at the time of the inspection, the inspector should not at the 

request of a financially interested person make a statement either orally 

or in a letter as to his recollections of g:rade factors pertaininP; to 

the lot. 'Ihe official information concerninP-; a lot of proouce which llBY proper~y be furnished an applicant or other financially interested person, 

can ll;'enerally be stated runv in the certificate itself. In case of a 

request for information which definitely gpes beyond the facts shown on 

the certificate or notes, the Federal Supervisor should be consulted 

before supplying such information. 

CORRECTIO'IS OF INSPECTOR'S NarES A~D CERTI'I<'ICATES 

( 235) Althou~ the actual scorillJlt:l must not be altered, ins\')ectors very 

frequently make some changes in their computations or certificate drafts 

before they are turned in· at. the branch office. Also, these sheets are 

frequently reviewed by the inspector in charge or sunervising insoector 

in the presence of the rm.n who !lBde the inspection, and changes are suggested which can be made at once. 

(236) When the inspector turns in his score sheet and draft of the certi? 

( 237) 

(238) 

ficate at the branch office, and is not present when this is reviewed by 

the inspector in charge or supervising inspector, it sometimes is necessary to make minor changes involving punctuation, spelling or grarrmar, 

in the interest of clarity with no actual changes being made in the facts 

covered by the certificate. Such changes rm.y prooerly be made by the inspector in charge or by the suoervising inspector with ordinary black 

pencil. 

When the inspector has turned in his score sheet and draft of the 

certificate, and is not present When it is reviewed by tl:ie inspector in 

charge of supervising inspector before beinp; typed, and an error is discovered involving percentages, grades, or statements of fact, the correction should be made with blue pencil and initialed by the party rm.king 

such correction •. 

It will be noted that the la~t three paragraphs refer to corrections 

made before the certificate is typed. After the certificate has been 

typed and mailed, any changes which are made in the notes should be rm.de 

in red and accompained by a Notice of Correction, copies of such notice 

being attac:lled to the branch office copy, State uffice copy, and Washin~on office copy of the certificate, along with the conies of the 

Corrected Certificate. (See oara!l7'C!Ph 163). 
... - 53 -

In case the 'llashington office calls for the orill;inal score sheet ( 2~9) 

and draft of any certificate, any notations made on these at the time of 

forwarding should be made in red, indicating that they were not included on 

the sheet· at the tirre the certificate was typed. otherwise no alterations, 

corrections or additions should be made on note sheets transmitted to 

\4ashington. 

P'iEPARATICN OF 'THE WJGIW!D DRAPI' 

The lon$and draft of the certificate should be written with !2;reat (240) 

care, both as to accuracy and legibilit:v. Special care should be taken 

as to legibility of all figures. Check it cm'efull.v before turning it 

in for typing. Particularl.v check 'for emissions and check numbers and 

percentages a¢nst the field notes. '!he lon$and draft of the certificate may be subpoenaed for court use where it will be subject to close 

scrutiny by the attorneys of both sides. 

T'ne inspector should sif!fl the lonll;hand draft of the -certificfite in (241) 

the same wa,y that he will sign the corrpleted certificate .. \fuen he signs 

the draft of the certificate, the insoector is responsible for the 

accuracy of all statements appearing above his sill}'lature. 

PREPA.~Tim OF' FV-181ls AND SI!O'ff!' OR TqUCK "DRM CERI'I"'ICAIJF.'l 

The certificate on the· short form or truck form or FV-1811 form is (242) 

prepared in lon1'¢land with three or five carbons. '!his should be written 

with even greater care than the lonr-jland draft df the re~lar certificate, 

since it is given to the apnlicant at once and is not sub.1ect to later 

checking and correction before issuance. It is of great advanta~ in 

producing legible carbons to write this form on a clip-board or place a 

thin sheet of metal under the last copy of the set in order to have a 

ha...'"'d surface upon which to write. Use ball point .pens in writin~~; handwritten certificates, if possible, otherwise use indelible pencils. Never 

use comnon lead pen~:!.ls in '-'.Tit in!) these certificates. 

Several types of handwritten certificates, FV-184, are being used (243) 

in many states. Suoervisors should be certain that transient inspectors 

are familiar with the one in use in their resPective state before they 

m'e given an assigrurent. Before writing the certificate, insoectors 

should check note sheets carefullY and make certain they are cc:mplete and 

accurate. Before distributing copies, inspectors should check certificates 

for errors and be certain all copies are le~ble. 
(2~4) 

- <=jl.J -

For all commodities all condition f::>.ctors must be reported that arf'ect n;Y'"idc. 

In addition, the followinn; si:::e and/o!' 'lUfl.li.ty f'3.ctors s'lould be renrwted: 

Apples, Pears .••. · ...••.•........••...... s h~e· ran~ 'N'hcrJ not u..r1i fomly s i7.ed, 

color, firmne~s nnQ ~neral terms for shaoe. 

Aspamll}ls ~ ............................................ ."color, ri.iA;.rreter, lenP"th. 

Cabbag;e . ....................................................... si,;e, t=>olidit.·..r. 

Cai'I"ots ..... ....................... • ............................. Si7.e, color. 

Celery ....................................... count marked, rnidrib len.P.;th, color~ 

Cherries.· .. , ..... · ....................... size ranP.:e when not UJ'li "'onnl.v si~ed, 

· condition of stems, color. an1 firmness. 

Corn ............................................... nize, maturity, husk color. 

Grapes ...................................... ~ ........................... co l~')r'. 

I.A3ttuce ........................... •.· ................ e •••••••••• 0 ••••• sollri1..ty. 

Onions . ..................................... si?.e and brip;htness; also ::;hane 

when mixed sha~es are encountered. 

Peaches, Plums, Prunes, Apricots ......•• size ra'lo;e when not uniformly si:o:e-1,. 

color, fir.nness. 

Potatoes .. , ....... ·-~ ............ . size; skin."'lin~ on new potatoes~ cleB.nness on 

late croo l)otatoes; ef'f'ecti ve as noti rie'J.. 

Torna.toos . ........................................................... . 1'!E.t11ri tv. 

\'iaterrre lons ..... e ............................................... -· ••• 0 ••••••• size. 

REPORTING ADDITIO"lAT" I''l'F'OR!I'TATIO'I O"l FV-l'lll CEffl'~"'ICAT'E:S 

(2115) The instructions above indicate .the mini!Wlm i'1fOI'lll3.tion th~t MtJ~ ':Je 

shown on handwritten ~l-184 certificates. 

(246) !t'is the oolic.v of the bspection service to re!)ort anv additional 

inZ'ormation that may be of benefit to the buyer or seller that rcasonab le 

utilization of soace in handwritL'lg; ,-,erm:Lts if the inforrrJ.<•tion is 'litLin 

the limitations set by handbook instructions. It is suP-;g;ested th:tt supervisors contact the users of the service in his area to dete~ne what information, in addition to the mintmums renuired above, would wake the certificate more valuable to them. Inspect:>rs who receive renuests to reoort 

additional information should refer them to their immediate suoervisors. 

Additional information that mil?tlt be re11uested. coul1 be in con:1ection ·..,i th 

"Paclc" in ca:.rtons (roostly •~ell, sane fairly. well fille1), :.mif'ormity cor Bizin~ (fairly uniform sizin~), orotective ~terial (pa~£- too and bottom 

of boxes), shape of potatoes (mostly well, sorre fairly ~~ell shaped), etc •.• 

.. WORYuSl!EE'T' INFOR1'1ATIQ'I "DR 1<'1!-lA~s 

:~·,.·n ':'he L'lspector must enter the Certificate 'luml)er in t'le 'lnrer right hand 

portion of the t'ront of the note sheet an:i rust sim his :'mrne '1/here indi:::ated. 
- r.;~ -

The field notes on the insoector's note sheets must be neat 'L"ld ("liP) 

clearly leP',ible so that dunlic!ltor cories "'"'" be marle of them wf:len necessary. The information nresent must be so full ~1 comnletc·~h~t the 

"'eder"jl Surervisor will be 'lble to prepare a can;.>lete tvperl certtric'l.te 

from them at aYJy time up t0 five years 'l.fter the insnection h'l.s heen rnde. 

In!'onna.tion recorded must not be li!llited to the few items on the handwritten certificate but must be as detctiled as it is for the ryr')!;;watton 

of a typed certificate. Included in the field notes must be p;ro·t~er's 

marks, if anv, car or truck concH tion and a car or truck lml.dihp;, columns 

to substantiate Size A or other sta'tP.rr.~nts on the certt ~'i:!c-i:···. Mrl other 

nertinent information. ile certain to shott deP;ree of rnun~; ~.n c'l.rtons 

or boxes such as. ~nerally well fi llcd' ()"[" as . the ~'!lets mav be. 

COR.liEC'T'ING EliROR.'3 CY.·l F'V-1811 CE" ·'T~rCA'I'f.:S ·-·-··---

If errors are made in car or' truck nurnheT'S, .ncrcent.'J.r.>;e ~'io.;ures, in (211", 

~ade statements, or other errors th11.t cill111ot be corrected neatly a'ld 

leJ:;ibly, the certificatl:l must be voided a'ld a ne:~ one issued. lie~'er to 

pars. 154 - 1611. 

The origl.nal ~d all copies of VOIDED certificates must be ret'..lmed (?'iO) 

to the office as instructed by the insnector's immediate suoervisor. If 

an incorrect certificate ha'l been issued, every effort should be '1\ade to 

have all conies of the incorrect certificate returned to the 1-:>cal o~'rtce. 

tftJ.nor errors on handwritten certi f'icates nav be corrected hv dr.'l\~in"'( ?'i 1) 

a line throu!l11 the error and writinP-; in correct word:" only if all copies · 

of the certificate are available. All such correctionsmust be in it J.ale1 · by the inspector. Avoid unsi,Q:htly scratchin11; or x x xinP-; out. Re!!Eri:Jer, 

certificates are lep;al documents, '!he '1UA.litv of' ou!' insoectionfi is o~"te~ 

,Jud~d by the appearance of our certific~tes, 
- 'i6 -

PART III 

'lliE CERTIF'I CA 'ffi 

( 252) 'T'he material in this section rrovides st...ndardized terms that have 

been adopted and defined by the Service for use in writin~ certificates. 

It is the responsibility of everv inspector to become familiar with 

these terms a~d instructions accomoanying them and to use them correctly. 

•If' the certificate is not correctly written, it loses value rersardless 

of how well the inspection may have been made. 

MJDIF"fiNG CERTH'ICATE HEADINr.S 

( 2S3) The following certificate headini?)S are arran~d in the order that 

they occur on the rep;ular" type1mtten Inspection Certificate, FV-47; 

Inspection Point ; Cl!r Initials and N~er; Inspect ian Begun - Completed; 

Applicant; Shipper; Condition of Car; Products; Loading; Pack; Si:>:e ;-

Quality and Condition; Grade; a,nd Remarks. It is impossible to draw up 

a certificate form which is ideal for the certification of all of the 

larr;e nUmber of fresh fruits and ve~tables Which will be inspected and 

for all the different conditions under which the inspections will be · made. The regular Inspection Certificate is suitable for rrost carlot 

inspections but at times it will be necessar.v to change or omit certain 

headinP;S in order to fit conditions. Heading;:; which are not suitable 

should be blocked out and repl:tced by the desired ones. Headinll;S which 

are not used should be followed by x x xs to.indicate that they were not 

overlooked. 

(254) As far as practicable, the instructions in this section also apply 

to handwritten F"l-184 certificates. Exceptions from these instructions 

to make them adaptable to handwritten FV-181J certificates must be 

authorized by the inspectors' District Supervisor or ~ederal Supervisor. 

CERTIFICATE NtJril!3ET'l 

(255) Certificates are printed in sets of an original and several copies. 

Each set is serially numbered in an upper corner. All sets must be 

accounted for by number to the State office where they are subject to 

audit. 

INSPECTI<N POINT 

(256) This is the name of the station, side track, switch or the address 

of the stora~, warehouse, packing plant or P-;rower' s packing ope rat ion 

at wnich the inspection is made and should include the name of the state. 
" 

* 

Revised Dec~¥rrber 21, 1970 BN 47-1 

- 57 -

The narre of the railroad must also be shown, 1f more than one sel"\Tes 

the shipping point. When certificates cover cc:nsolidateJ lots f'rom two 

or rore inspecticn points, the words "See Remarks" shoold be shown after 

this heading and the various inspecticn points reported in a "Relll9.rks" 

statement near the bottom of the certificate. 

KIND 0~ CAR 

r,enerally cars used for shipping fresh fruits and vegetables ma.v be (2'57) 

classed as refrigerator, express refrigerator, b~~. box, insulated 

box, ventilated box and stock cars. If any soecial type of car is used, 

the special name rmy be given provided it is official with the railroad 

canoany, such as "Bunker less Ref'ri~rator Car," a new tyoe of PFE, and "~Can Refrigerator". If a mechanical refri~rator type of car is encountered (such as a SIRX), a statement "Tent>erature controls in operation" 

or "Tent>erature cootrols not in operation" should be lll9.de, deoendin~r, on 

the facts as determined by the presence of f'rost or heat bein~ ~ven off, 

the sound of motors running or other means. Ch fan refri~rators report 

whether tne fan lever is in"co" or "off" nositicn~ 

"Form Covered Refrigera_tor Hopper Car". This descriptive term shall 

be used for a ne1~ type of car 11hich is basically a covered hopper car 

with three compartrrents. Each compartment has a full-length hatch at the 

top. The exterior is insulated with 2 inches of polyurethane foam. 

(25~-a) * , I 

CAR INITIALS A'ID tMIBER 

When inspections cover lots loaded into railroad cars, the car ( 2'18) 

initial and number will be the chief means of identification. It is 

vi tally irrportant that they be accurately recorded. (See oaraP;raph 212) , 

The inspector should always make every effort to person~lly obsel"\Te (259) 

the product loaded into the car so that he will be able to certtf'y the 

car number, however, in some instances it will be impractical for the 

inspector to do this. In such cases, if the applicant can furnish the 

car number into which the lot has been,. or will be loaded and wishes it 

to appear on the certificate, the inspector should show ''See Bemarks'' in 

the "Car L'1itials and "'uni:ler" heading. The car initials and nunt>ers can 

then be reported on the authority of the applicant 1h a "~emarks" headinp; 

near the bottom of the certificate. Example: Aoplicant states above 

lot loaded (or to be loaded) into car P~ 1234'5. 

LOT'S NOT IJ:f:m'IFIED BY CAR 'lt.M3E~ 

Lots not identified by car nunt>ers can be divided into three classes (260) 

as follows: 

* 

* 

* 
- 'iA -

(2Gl) Lots Identified by Truck Numbers. In cases where certificates are 

desired on truck loads, the truck or trailer license number should be 

shown on the certificate· in the nlace oroYided for the car initial and 

number, blocking ou.t the words "Car Initial" and typim; in the words 

"Truck License", "Semi-trailer License" or "Trailer License". 'T'he nt.mtber 

on the semi-trailer or trailer should L~ usen 1ri nreference to the truck 

number when the load is not on the power unit of the truck as the trucktractor is frequentl,y changed enroute on lcn.g; hauls. 

( 262) Under the heading "Kind· of Car" block out the word "car" . and insert 

"Truck" or ''Trailer." The kind should be reported as "Refrigerator," 

"Covered" or "Ooen". 

( ?63) In the inspection of produce shipoed 1n refrip;erator trucks or 

trailers, the same general policies should be followed as when m:aldn~ 

inspections 1n refrigerator cars, '!he word "Car" should be blocked out 

under the heading "Condition of C'.ar" and the word "Truck" or '"!'railer'' 

inserted so that the heading will read "Condition of Truck" or "Condition 

of T:r?liler. " Under this headin,:z; 1f there are bunkers , reoort the 

position of hatch covers and plugs, amount of· ice, or whether the bunkers 

are enpty. If it is mechanical refri~ration then report whether the 

refrigerator motor is running or not runnin11,;. Also reoort the tvoe of 

floor and any defective equipment such as loose fitting doors, defective 

roof, walls, etc. If the truck is not a refrigerated tyne, this headinR; 

should be followed by x x xs. 

(264) wnenever practical, the loading should be described in row·s and 

layers, but it is not necess~ to go into as much.detail as on lots 

loaded in cars • 

( 265) \o/hen the applicant requests that a lar?;e lot being loaded on two or 

more trucks be reported on ohe certificate, the truck license numbers 

should be reported under a "Remarks" headin.,_; and "See Remarks" should be 

shown in the snace for car initials and numbers. 

(266) Pi~!Y-back Trailers.- When inspectin~ produce loaded in pi~pYback 

trailers, show on the certificate the number on the side or end of the 

trailer in place of the state license number. It is not necessary to 

show the number of the flat car en which the trailer is loaded. '.1/hen 

the contents of two ·trailers on one flat car are certified, separate 

certificates should be issued for each trailer. The instructions in 

para'Sl"aohs 261 and 262 lt>ove for truck-trailers also apply to oiP-;~~;V-back 

trailers. 
- 'i'l -

· Lots Identi fled by State Lot or Other Starrps. On the reP;Ular cer- ( 2', 7) 

tificate, when lots are not idc~tified by car or truck numbers, the headin~ "Shipper, Car Initials and !'lumber, Kind of C'.ar nnd Loadinn;" • 

shoul.d not be blocked out but should be followed by three spaced x x xs 

to indicate that the headin~ h~ve not been overlooked. If it is 

desirable for purposes of filin~ or recordin~, the headinn; "Car Initials 

and NWti:Jer" may be blocked out and "Lot Insnectlon" or "State Lot '~t.rnbcr' 

may be typed in its place, however, this does not eliminate the necessity 

of quoting the stamped number under the "Products" heading. r.enerally 

the heading '!Condition of Car" should be blocked out and a new heading; 

''Where Inspected" typed on the sarre line folla.~ect by a statement as to 

the location of the product at time of inspection. If this is not done, 

the headin~ should be follo~ed by x x xs. 

While they are not as reliable for purposes of insoection as state (?1)8) 

lot sta~s, warehouse lot n~mbers or other numbers stRmped on each container for the purposes of establishin~ a lot distin~shable from all 

othe·r stock in the sarre location ma.v be used in a manner similar to state 

lot numbers, except when apples or pears are certified in stora~ with an 

Export Form Certificate, the container must be identified by either a 

State Lot Identification number or a public sto~ lot number. Private 

warehouse lot numbers are not acceptable for this puroose. Growers,. 

marks or numbers, packing code numbers, etc. are not satisfactory for 

identification of storage lots. Such marks or numbers are generally found 

on other contaL~ers in the house in addition to these in the inspection lot. 

Lots With No Lot Identification. F'requently lots are inspected which ( :;Gq) 

cannot be identified by car or truck number and which are not stamped with 

a State-lot . or other identi fyinp; number. 'Ihe applicant should be advised 

that such lots cannot be identified with the certificate and it will have 

little or no value in settling disputes or in le~l or !'.A.C.A. actions. 

On this type of certificate unused headings should be followed by x x xs. 

It may be!' • of value to the applicant to have the lot identified as to 

location as being in a certain section of a sto~ room. If this is 

possible, it should be typed in a "Where Inspected" hear:linn; after blockinfl: 

out "Condition of Car." Example: Where Insoected: In applicant's ·cold 

storage plant, Room 3, Section C. · · 

INSPEGriOO BEGUN - CCY.v!PIE'I'ED 

The date of the certificate is the date of completion of insnection. (270) 
(271) 

- 6o -

Revised Hay It, 19T nN-~3-1 

Par, (272), Puge GO, G~ncrul 

Shipping Point Inspection J 

Instructio~ January 196b 

These headings are to be used in reporting the hour and date of starting 

and completion of inspection regardles~ of the time elapsed, (See Part II, 

paragraphs 2 31 to 2 32) • Do not use figures on the certificates to 1nd1c ate 

the month. 

(272)* Record the exact local time on the certificate. No reference should be made • 

* as to standard or daylight saving time, * 

Exa'll!?les: 

INSPEC'I'ION BEGUN: 9:00 a.m., May 3. 19'i9. INSPEC'I'ION CQT.rPI.E'l'EJl: 

12 Noon, !l'a.,v 3, 1959. 

INSPEC'I'ICN BEGUN: 9:30 a.m. 

12 Mdt. May ?, 1959. 

(.'~75) On certificate fonns where no "Inspect ton Ber.;un" headlnp; is supnlierl, 

the headin~~: should be typed in just above the "Car F11uiprrent and Condition" 

heailiu~. 

( 276) \oJhere there ·is an interval of one or more days between the time of 

ccmpletion of inspection and the tirre of loading the lot, the he'l.dinP: 

"Condition of car" shculd be followed by the words "at comoletion of 

loading" and the date of loadinP;. Example: 

Condition of car at completion of loadin3 .Tune 2, 1959: Hatch 

covers closed, plugs in, bunkers empty. 

(277) Truck_ Lot Certificates Other '!han 'F'V'-lfl4 carry the "hour'' for recorrlino; 

the tirre of ccmpletion of inspection only. As the use for which this form 

is desi!;led does not usually require mre than about ll hours, the hour of 

completion of inspection is sufficient. Should any insnection reported 

on this fonn be prolonP,ed beyond ll hours for any reason, both the hour 

or beginnin~ and of completion of inspection should be shown by writin~ 

in the necessary headin~. 

A'P'PLICA'lT 

(278) The certificate is to be issued to t.he ry~y makin~ the application, 

whether this be the ~ower, shipoer, consi~ee, broker or carrier. In 

the case of requests from a carrier, the carryinp; COill?MY should be shown 

as the applicant, represented by the agent makinp; the aopllcation. 'Ihus: 

Union Pacific Railroad C~any, John Doe, Ap.;ent. Include the name of the 

state in any address. 
- 61-

SHIPPER 

The shinper is the party actUally shipninP, the lot. The address of (279) 

the shipper to be shown is his post of'fice address, which is often not 

the shiPping point. If the shipper and the applicant are the same, the 

word "Same" rny !)e shown in this heading. Be sure the narre of the applicant and shipper are correctly spelled and stated. ro not write 

''Reddinf¢on F'ruit Corrpany" if the correct finn title is "Reddinp;tc:n Fruit, 

Inc.'' Do not use nicknames such as "Jim" or ".Tack" in showing an individual 

or firm unless such nickname has been adopted as part of the business" name. 

OO"'DITION OF CAR 

Definition of Terms. The followinll; terms should be used in des crib- (280) 

ing the conditic:n of the car. 'The definitions ll;iven below show the 

rreaning of the terms as understood by the trade and the c$rrier:S: 

B Fnd: 'Ihe end of the car on Which the hand brake wheel or lever (281) 

is located. 

A End: The end of the car opposite the g end. (282) 

''R" Side or Right Side: 'Ihe side of the car to the rlf#lt of the ob- (283) 

server when standing inside of the car and facinP, the A Fnd. 

"L" Side or Left Side: 'The side of the car to the left of the ob- (2811) 

server when standing inside of the car and facing the A Fnd. 

Bunkers: 'The j ce corrpartments of a refrigerator car or truck, 

Tanks: 'nle ice tanks of sorre lines of refrigerator cars. 

(285) 

(285) 

Bunker Bulkheads: 'nle partitions between the bunkers and the l1'8.in (287) 

pa!"'t o!' the car. · 

Collaosible Bunkers: uvllcer bulkheads that may be folded or pushed (288) 

back, thereby extendinp; the available loading length or the car. Example: 

"Hatch covers closed, ~ lup;s in, ice bunkers collapsed", 

Hatches : 'The openings in tops of bunken.. (289) 

Hatch Covers i 'nle lids covering the hatches of refrigerator cars. ( 290) 

Hatch covers are "closed" or "open" or "thrown back." 'The greatest 

possible degree to which this type of cover can be s.upported is 311 degrees, 

which should be reported as ''open." If hatch covers are raised cnl.y 

slightly, it is best to report the anount of raise in inches: "Ilatch 

covers raised 3 inches" ; 
- fi2 -

( :?91) Plugs: These furnish an insulated clonin~:; of the hatches under 

( .?92) 

the cover. On many makes of cars they are attached to the hatch covers 

but on others they are sepamte. "Plugs in" or "Plu~ out'' usually is 

sufficient to describe their placerrent. \~ith scme S~D cars '

1

1Jars indicate plu!l}5 closed" or "!Clars indicate plu12;S onen" applies. If the nlui!; 

is held open by tne plug chain, ordinarily rerredy this situatton and · 

report as "in''. 

Amount of Ice: Ice bunkers are conmonly fi-112 feet deep from 

grating to top. When there is no ice or heaters in the bunkers, they 

will be reported as "bunkers enpty." ~fuen ·they are approximately haJ.f 

full of ice or less, state the number of feet of ice in the bunkers, as 

"approximately 2 feet of ice in bunkers," o!' '''"e1~ small chunks in bottom 

of bunkers". ~/hen bunkers are rrore than half full of lee, show the 'tm:Junt 

in reference to the space above, as "ice 2 feet from too of bunkers." Do 

not qttempt to estimate in less than- 1/2 foot variations. 

Hhen hunkers are full of ice, they should be reported ::15 "bunkers !'ull 

of ice" unless "half stage icing" is used. In sorre refriP,erator cars, 

a removable grete separates the upner and lower halves of the bunkers. 

\Vhen only the upper half is filled with ice, this is known as ''half 

sta~ icing" and should be so reported; In some deals many shipments 

are made with half sta~ icing and it is imorac'.ical for the inspector 

to' tell them from fullY iced cars at tirre of inspect:!.on. In these instances, the term ''lee to top of hunkers" shoul1 be used i'1stea.d of "bunkers 

full of ice." 

::xamples: (l) Hatch covers closed, nlull;S in, bunkers full of ice. 

(2) Hatch covers closed, plugs in, ice to top of bunl<ers. 

(3) Half stru:;e icing, hatch covers closed, nluP."~o; in, ice 

to top of bunkers. 

: ;?')3) Jt:ain Pipes, Drai:~s, Traps: "'hese devices are for carry in«; Wl.ste 

wa+;er from b'.ll1ker pans. Traps are coverinll;S o"' the unner or' l0~1er onenitl'CS 

of drain pipes. ·If the c~ !Tl"l,y pass throwr,h low temner"l.tures, S1JOW the 

drain pipes to be '

1

open" or "closed by tr3.ns" or "nlu!l;~r:l''(with paner, str1:~ 

and the like). At other tirres the drain pipes need not be noted. 

(2?11) "'loor Racks: T:'11s term applies to the raised slatted rloor abov~ the 

true floor of a refrigemtor car. It is standard e'!Uipme:1t a'1d t!1erefore 

need not be shown .'35 present, unlesn requested by a narty ·interested in the 

ship::1ent. If there. are no floor racks, state "no floor r11.cks." "'or bulk 

loads floor racks ma_v be "raised al!,ainst aides of car." 

(295) Ribbed Floor: 'T'his term referr; to the strin:; nailed len~<.thwise to 

the true floor of some old line reft'iP-;e:'·: tor cars. State "ribbed floor'' if 

present. 

.~· 
- 63 ._ 

False Ploor, Palse Walls: These terms apnly to false solid floor (295) 

Md wal;Ls built a few inches from true floor :md walls as a protection 

against freezine;. Show the number of inches from true floor and from 

true walls to face of false walls 1nd floor. F.~le: "False floor, ton 

5 inches above true floor, false walls ends and sides of c!lr to doors, 

face 6 inches from true walls." 

Paper Lining: Paper linine; is often apl)lied ~ a precaution ( ?.97) 

against freezine;. Show which portions of the car are "paper lined" (or 

"double papered" if two thicknesses are used); whether it is floor rn.cks, 

false floor or true floor that are capered; whether the sidewalls, bunker 

bulkheads or all walls are papered; and heill;ht to which paper extends on 

·o'/alls, thus : "True floor papered, floor racks double papered, all walls , including doors papered to within approxinately 2 feet of ceiling" or walls 

rnsy be papered to "hei$t of doors" or to "heipjlt of load," or "to ceilinP;;'' 

or more frequently oerhaps"to heiJ!jlt of approximately 3 reet." SometillEs 

it may be "true floors paperd, paper broup.}lt UP sid.e walls anprox1mately 

2 feet.'' Sometimes it is si!l{)ly "bunker bulkheads papered," or "openin~ 

in bunker bulkheads papered." 

Pads and Straw, Hay or Shredded Paner Beddinrs: These products ( 2'!fl) 

are used as protection against bruisine; or freezing in unnacked Products 

such as watermelons and squao;h or products in sacks such as potatoes and 

onions. Excelsior, fiber shredded oaper either loose or in oads: are sanetimes used on the floors and side walls ·or cars to prevent bruisin~ in the 

floor and side wall sacks of such products as potatoes and onions. Thus: 

"Floor and end walls covered with excelsior pads to height of 1 oad" or, 

. "Floor covered with shredded paper." Conditions may rrake it d.:sirable to 

show the thickness of such protective materia~~ The presence or absence 

of floor pads may have an important bearing on damage claims due to bruisinp; 

in floor layer packages. As corrplete informatioo as possible shou!ld be 

reported when pads are used. Trade names for pads such as ".Jiffy'' should 

not be used. 

Ex~les: ( 1) "Ml.cerated lJaper pads on floor racks beneath 

most bottom layer sacks, none under· some 

sacks." 

( 2) "Cotton pads an floor racks." 

Heaters: Cars which are to move under any 1({De of he::1ter service (2'l9) 

usually carry "Heated Car" cards on a door an each side of the car. In 

such oases it is unecessary to make any reference to the oresence of 

heaters, their type and whether ''ournini " or "not 11'1Jted. ;, It is sufficient, in addition to the usual information to state "Car carded for 

heater service." If cars are not carded and examination shows heaters in 

bunkers, this fact should be stated, includL~~ whether or not burntne;. 
- 611 -

( 300) Doorw~v: The space enclosed by the door c~sin~. 

( 301) Space Between Doors: The spa(:!e in tile car between the doorwll.v 

on each side. Products should not be reported as bein~ in dooP#aV ~hen 

what is rreant is that the product is in the "space between noors." 

( 302) Doorways. Boarded Across or 3oardS Across Doorway: '!'hese terms 

are to be used to describe doorway protection of bulk lo11.ns when the car 

is loaded full length. Show the hei$t either in. number of feet or "to 

height of load." 

(303) Doorways Slatted: 'lbi::; term ll.DPlies to slats across doorways 

for retaining the bulk or pacl<age load. Show how hill;h the slatt1.n~ 

extendS. 

(304) Wall Open;!.ngs Slatted: This term armlles to the use of slats 

to close the openings in the walls of stock cars loaded with watermelons. 

Slatting usually extends to hei$t of load. 

(305) Vents: Openings in the ends of cars for the pW"':lose of Yentilll.-

(306) 

tion are called vents. '!hey may be "opened" or "closed.'' If one or more 

are in each condition, show this and the resnective locations •. Thus: 

"Upper vent open, lower vent closed, each end of car," 

Ventilating Doors, Slat Doors, Screen Doors: Th~se are doors of 

ventilated box cars provided with slats (o>:> bars), or screens or both to 

furnish ventilation. (See example next para~ph). 

(307) Solid doors or any-of the various kinds of ventilatin~ doors may 

close the doorways of ventilated box cars. Either the solid or the ventilating doors may be "in position over donrw11.y" or the condition may be 

"doorways closed, half by solid doors, half bv ventilatinp; doors." 

"Doors cleated open inches" may be stated of doors o:' b0x cars 

g:. 'lin;z; the nwnber of inches. The open space is for ventilation. It ~::tv 

be necessary to add such a staterrent as "Bottom·:? feet of so::tce hoarier'! 

up." 

(308) Defective Equipment. Defective car equipment should be called to the 

attention of the shipper immediately upon its being noticed so that steps 

to repair or replace the car may be taken before loar~ng pro~sses further. 
- 6'5 - ' . '8 

If inspected rroduce is loaderl in llefecti ve earn, the defects should be 

described on the certificate. Statements in this con~ection should re~er 

only to defects which are of sufficient importance to have a possible 

bearing on the condition of the product. If n lup.;s and doors do not fit, 

the width of the space at one or rrore sides is to be stated. T..e8.ks in 

the ro0f, loosened siding and roof sheathin~, displacement of the bunker 

bulkheads, holes in the . noor, contamination uf the floor by grease, 

ch~micals such a<> salt or other materials, and any other druna'IC to the 

car that ~V have a bearing uoon the condition of the shioment are to be · 

shown. It is important that the descriotion of defective enuipment be 

exact and be so worded that it cannot be used impronerly for claims purposes. 

PRQDUC!'S 

The orirna,.r:v purpose of the ''Products" heading on the certificate is ( 3ng) 

to identify the lot. Under this heading; the followin<", identi fyin;z; factors 

are to be renorted when appropriate: 

l. 'lame of product or products insrected. 

2. Variety when known; if not, the type or descrintion. 

3. Container, tyoe or kind. 

ll. Brands, 

r;. Grower' s marks or lot nuntJers . 

6. Grades and sizes. 

7. Lot numbers and stencils. 

8. Identification by comparison terms. 

9. Quantity in lot covered by the certificate. 

~arne of Product. This should be the first item shown under the ( 310) 

"Products" heading or should be preceded only bv the .name of the variety, 

type or description. On the typed certificate the nroduct should be in 

capital letters. 

Variety, Type or Descriotion. The varietv is to be stated if !mown ( )11) 

with certainty .and has any bearing on the commercial value o~ the product; 

otherwise, when pertinent, such exoressions as the followin<2; should be 

used: "Round white POI'ATOES,'' ''White fleshed PEACHES," "Yell01~ 01-!IONS ," 

· "C'.olden type CElERY.'' Where the inspector is uncertain of the variety or 

·strain but the containers are staJll)ed with a variety, it ~v be quoted, 

thus: ''APPLES in boxes stamped Starkinp; Delicious." If the inspector 

is certain the variety marked on the container is incorrect, he should 

report this fact as in the example followinll;: ''An.jou PEARS in boxes 

staJll)ed "C~ce. '' When the inspector has seen the Product washed, brushed, 

waxed, etc., he may report it on the certificate. '!his should be done 

precedinf!; the name of the product and variety. Example: ''Washed lonr;; 

white POI' A TOES," "Brushed Elberta PEACHF'..S," "Waxed 'IDMATOFS." 
Revised June 16, 1970 BN-~-2(a) 

- !.in -

(312) Cootainers, Type or Kind. Where containers are of the standard 

types such as are commonly· used f~~ the product, it P,eneral~v is' not 

necessary to describe them further than to state the types such as "wirebound crate," "tub-type bushel basket," "burlap sacks," etc. Where oroducts are sbipped 1n unusual containers or in variati)ns of a common type 

of container, a description is necessary. Do not use trade nanes such 

as "3axol1ne, '' "Bruce Box," ''Hc:Mard Crate," etc. 

(313) If noticeable used, dirty or weatherstained ccntainers are used, 

they should be rrentioned as "PCTA'roES 1n used, turned sacks," "APPt;ES 1n 

unlidded weathersta.;.:'leu I:Joxes. '' 

( 314) ':'he net wei$t staJll)ed, rrarked or printed on the cootainers should be 

quote.j on the certificate when it is or value 1n indicating the size of 

comx:>nly variable size containers, such as 1n the case of sacks. Exan:ple: 

"-----printed '100 lbs. net. ' 11 

(315) Cell. and Tray Packs. Products oacked in ccntainers with eg;g crate 

type dividers should be reported as "cell type cartcns. '

1 Products packed 

L"l containers with pressed tpays mde with liDlded cups between layers 

should be descri!:led as ''tra,v packed boxes" (or cartons). 

(316) Consurrer Size Packages. 'Nhen inspecting consumer size packasz;es, 

(317) 

such as small cartcns. or sacv..s ,. shipped 1n master cootainers ,. report the 

count for the lot as the nuniJer of master cootainers. 'D'le nurrber of uiu.ts 

in each master container should be stated as in the following examples: 

( 1) TOMATOES, mani rested as 300 shipping cases containing 

12 windCM cartons labeled "Penwa,v Farms , " 

(2) Netted Oem PCJrATOF..S 1n cotton net sack!l branded "Rose 

Best, 10 lbs. net, u. s. No. 1M oacked 6 to a paper 

·shipping sack printed "Rose Best." Applicant's count 

llOO shipping sacks • 

Use the term 11!1Ultiwalled ma.'lter ccntainers "under the "Products" 

headin~ when the container meets this classificaticn. 

Cellophane, Pliofilm and similar terms are trade nanes applied to a 

type of transparent material used as wraps, liners, tags, etc. '!hese terms 

are not to be used on the certificate.. To describe :naterial of this ld.nd, 

t!".e tern "film" should be used, as "film ba~," "film wrapped". 

(317a )* F08lll Containers. Although this is a trade term, "fOUl containers" * * should be used to describe all types of molded plastic foam containers * 

* (expanded polystyrene is the proper technical term). Thill container * 

* is new to the produce industry and is becoming increat;1ngly popular. * 
- 67 -

Brands. A brand is an insignia, picture, or worclin11; that is labeled. (",18) 

printed or stamped on a container a~d is used as a trade mark by the 

shipper for purposes of advertising. The identifying words in the brand 

should be shown in capital letters, or in quotation marks, under the 

''Products" heading on the certificate.· Examole: "labeled WHITE q()SE," 

T.f such wording i~ lackin0, a brief description of the insignia'or picture 

iJ necessary. Sacks, and occasionally other containers, may be printed or 

labeled with some general design or stock wordin~ which will be aooropriqte 

for• a particular production region, as: "Idaho Onions." These are not 

':>rands and containers so mrked should be referred to as "printed" or· 

"stamped" with the wordin11; carried. When the containers bear no labels or 

brands, this fact should be stated if the lot certified customarily would 

:·,9.Ve such identification so that those readin11; the certificate will know 

that it was not overlooked. Example: "Boxes not labeled," "Sacks not 

branded or marked.'' 

!"ederal ReP-;Ulations rea:.~ire that old brands and labels be removed (3Fl) 

N' ;rarked out and the :1ecessary ne1~ markinp.; added by tw;, lab~l or ether 

approved means. If th:l.s is not done, a statement of facts should be 

included under this headin~. Examole: 

Products: 

----- Cobbler POTATOES in used sacks showin~ various 

brands and ta11;p.;ed ".J. ,Jones & Son, "'oley, Alll. , 

100 lbs • net . " . 

If a hrand is misleadinr,: as to the ·comnoditv it covers, it should ( 3?0) 

cJe des~rlbed in detail. The labels on lup;s of ll7'apes ca."'J:'yin!l; the nicture 

0f ,1 lar~ red tomato with a bra'1d nare, is an example in ooint. 

It is not necessary to '1Uote or show the state of oriF;in or shipper' .s ( 321) 

:<a.';'le an the bra'1ds or labels. This information is indicated in the uoper 

[JO!'tions of the certificates. 

·-;!"'01t.1'=Y'S' ~·~c.r·ks 2..'1d Lot ~'Jl.l1T1Qers. U1less thev tPJ<e 110 excessive (? :?2) 

sr:ace or the certificate is crowded f'or soace, three or less ,q;rowers' lots 

n:.u:t':>ers or rrarks should be ::1entioned LL'1der the ''Products" heiid:l'12;; if 

c-ore are r.resent, the term "various gro•t~ers' marks'' or ''lots" may be usecl. 

~',e aoplicant sometimes .<;.lters the loadinp; after compl<'!tion cf insnectim 

ar~d 7:1'!Y either intentionally or otherwise 'ldd off-P;rade lots not covered 

b:; the insoection. !"or this reason, riEntion of g-rowers' ma.rks may serve 

as a protection to the shipping; point inspector in ease o~ re-inspectims 

i'l the narket. Growers' marks and lot numbem on containers examined 

:JhoulJ always be recorded on the note sheets reR;s.rdless of the nu.'!'.ber. 
- 68 -

323) Grades and Sizes. When the ~ades and sizes are nrinted, starnned or 

marked_ on the container, the:r should be quoted ur1der "Products" on the 

certificate. When the inspector secures his information as to sizes 

second hand, he should state "manifest shows" or "applicant states sizes 

lOCls to 163s," etc. If the inspector secures the ran~ of sizes fran 

the packa~s by observation,- he should so state, thus: · "12Cls to liJ3s 

noted" or "5 x 6s and 6 x 6s noted," 

:324) State Lot, Stora~ Lot or other Lot Nuntlers and Stencils. State 

(325) 

lot, storage lot and similar identifYing nuntlers stamoed or nermanently 

attached to each container in the inspection lot, should be quoted under 

the "Products" heading regardless of reference to them under the "Car 

Iniiials and Numbers" heading. If storar;e lot nUII'bers or other similar 

numbers are· not stamped or attached to the individual nack~s but are 

merely tag~d or marked on the front of a warehouse pile, they should not 

be mentioned under "Products" but mav be renorted under a ''Remarks'' 

headin~. 

Exarnples: Remarks: "Warehouse pile ta~d lot A-173" or 

"',o/arehouse records show lot stored under 

number A-173." 

( 326) On >;OVernment and similar purchases, the Purcha.<;e Order nuntler should 

be .,uoted under the ''Products'' headinP: when it is marked or stenciled on 

the containers. If it is ·not on the containers, it may be reported under 

a "Remarks'' headin>l;; thus: Remarks_: "APplicant states above lot covered 

by Purchase Order OAK-2456. '' 

(327) Containers in overseas exnort shipments are usually stenciled or ta~~d with shippL~g symbols in the form of a series of initial letters, 

numerals and _port marks. ~ese should be 'lUOted exactlv as thev anoear 

on the cont.3fners for such markin~ mUst a~e with the ~uirements in 

the exnorter's letter of credit. All letters i.~ these marks should be i.'1 

capitais. ·When a portion of the markin~ is above or ''over" other 

portions, this can be indicated by a diail;()nal bar when quoting;. ".:xarnple: 

"Ql'C-1293/MANIIA." 

( 328) Identification by Corrparison Tenns. In some cases cars are loaded, or 

'tlarehouse and truck lots set up, that contain two or rore ~des that cannot be identified by the usual methods, such as marks, brands, containers, 

etc. In these instances, separate identification can be established by 

location in the car or by means of 11;enera1 CO!!parison terms such as 

''lar11;er size" and "smaller size." 
- l)q -

Exaiq)le: 

PRODUGrS: Yellow Ol'liONS in ne\~ onen rresh sacks nrintecl ""led Star, ()?<"1) 

SIZE: 

GRADE: 

'iO lbs. net.'' !t!ani fested as .20'1 sacks larr.;er size 

onions in A end of car nearest bunker; !t()() sqcks smaller 

size onions remainder of load. 

Larger size onions general~y 3 to 4 inches in di~7eter. 

Smaller size· onions ~nerally?. to 3 inches in diameter. 

Undersize·each lot within tolerance. 

Larger size onions: 

Smaller size onions: 

U. S. 'lo. 1, 3 inches minimum. 

U. S. No. 1, 2 1.'1ches minimum. 

Do not use terms like "l;uoge onions" or ''small onions" as they ma:v be (31n) 

misunderstood to be size classifications. 

Quantity Certified. The number of packa~s covered by the inspection (331) 

should always be reported on the certificate. It is preferred that the 

statement as to count be made at the end of the "Products'' staterrent. 

However, in sorre western states it has been the custan for many years to 

report the count after the name of the canrrodi ty. <T:here is no serious 

objection to this procedure where it is an established custom. r~nerallv 

the count of lots loaded 'into cars will be made on· the authority of' sane 

one other than the :l,nspector, such as "applicant's count," "loader's 

count, 11 "manifest shows,·~ etc. On bulk loads the car, truck or bin is 

the container. '!be net weipjlt should be sunplied by the apnlic;mt ;md 

quoted on his authority or fran certified scale receipts. (See parag;r.'3.ph 

402 ). 

On warehouse, storage and similar lots the inspector should state (13?) 

the count on his own authority if the size, location and arran~rrent of 

the lot permits accurate countinR;, thus: "31)0 boxes noted.'' If an 

accurate count is irrpractical, the inspector may quote the m;mi fest or 

checker's count but should always make an approxim1.te count to be sure 

that substantially the number of packages stated is beL~~ offered for 

inspection. 

If the carlot or warehouse lot consists of more than one product, ( 111) 

the number of packages of each product should be renorted. 

If the load consists of 2 or mre varieties, grades, brands or ( 134) 

growers' lots of the same commodity, the number of packages of each mav 

be reported if requested by the applicant and an 'lccurate manifest i'> 

available. If a few odd identifiable pack!lt<;eS are found, the nuni:Jer 

should be reported so that undue weip;ht Will not be p;iven them. Slrre 

shippers have requested th!lt the number of packa~s in each lot in mixen. 

loads be omitted from certificates as the inspector usually obtains the 

count from the first fiP;UI'8S of the checker which m.w later be ch.mged if 

found incorrect. 
- 7fJ -

,.33'i) '.-/hen an inspection is macle or n·full:r lnnden c.<tr '1nd the certifi.cCJ.te 

is restricted to .m accessible nortlon or th<3 lo'l:i such as the ''unner ) 

1.3..vers ,'' the count renorted sho:lld be that of the entire lo!ld. 

())ii) If the certificate is restricted to :m i?ent1"hhle lot i!1 the .lo'l.d 

( 337) 

such 3.S r>rodur.t, br:md, n;rade, speci "ied stact<s, etc. , the count to be 

rcuorted l.s that of the number or contA.iners in the- nort:!.on or lot to 

which the , ertificato is restricter1. (3ee narap;ranhs 574- .S86). An 

ex~le ir; >Jven below of a lo<td which contai.ns 2 nroducts, onlv one of' 

which is certifier1. The same nrinciple Nould aoply if it 1~ere t:·lo 

·varieties, r;rades or brands. l::xample: 

yroducts: 

Loadinp;: 

Remark::;: 

~Jetted r.em 0 CYrA'I'Of..S in ne\~ bul"lan sncks, ''Ro.se llr:md, 

101 lbs. net." ?')n sack11 noted. See '''Rema.rks." 

'!'hrou~ load, potatoes 3 rows, 'i l:wers, renainder of 

load onions in sacks , · 11 rows , 6 layers . See "Rem1.rks" , 

Inspection ~!1d certificate rcst~icter1 to potatoes onlv. 

Exm:roles 

~-

of' Products 3tatements: 

( 1) Katahdin-Chtnpewa type PO'l'A'IDC:..<; in new burhn sacks bra.'lded 

''111..'Une Beautv, 100 lbs. net,. U. S. ~lo. 1" Checker's count 3n0 sacks. 

(2) S·.~eet PEPPERS in tub-type bush~l baskets; lids !>ta11;1ed 

''C'llifcmia ~!onder, U. S. No. 1; " lil.bels under lids ~".OL!JEN GI'1L FJQ}I,'J!). 

Loader's count 720 baskets. 

(3) VP.llow rr,lobe CN!O'lS in new papernet sacks printed witi:l 1 overlarrin~ hearts. Applic~nt 's count JO() sacl{s nrinte·i ''"in lb~'. net," 

ii10 s.'J..::l<s ''25 lbs. net." '":ach sacl\ tn!?',i~d "R'JD -:>3fii::/lfO'l'. '' 

( 4) APPIES: f\pnlicant's count 7qfl !:!"l,V nacked cartms labeled 

llr;j, ~ n • hh n 1'' ~;., j ~t... ....1 ''"'<' . f"'+- ... t •. ""'-] 1 r , ., fl ~ ' • .: ._\-. L ..:.tk. ~\l ... on l,r8J1{ ·.u,( ~ ~Jnp~-J. ~ A.&"1CY, ... h .. ar4(U1!'; _Jf:":. C.1.8U<?,. an:J. •'•.:..v·;J 

p;;-o·.;"r' ,, lot numbers 5?BG9 :md ')iir.TP. Si:>:es 13P.s to Hi?t. noted. r,:ac:1 

b0x sta'Tl!·,eJ "':lanh. Ser,>t. nf Aa;ri . - 'J~-001!-I..ot I(Jenti "ic<Jt ion.'' 

('5) \·lashed Pascal tvr:h: CEr.'::"lv: Loader's Cl)unt 378 wirebo\md 

crat'::s, l!!b':!led ''JE...."\1' YET P-~A'JD." 1.-l/2 t0 3-11?. dczen count rmrked on 

r:r:-~tes. Stam';led "Fed-3tate-Lot lll?.-6fi. '' 

(6) IVJj.xed ve~t-:tples: '•iantf'e~>ted ns·l0•1 waxed nape!' lined cr1.tes 

U:T':'l •cr::, l ')n :Jap~~r lined crates bunched CArmo:'S, ?.99 wirebounrl :~ntes 

0f ~·:·:1S~e:.1 ~n.;~al ~r.E~Y. Eac:-t c!"'ate lab·~ led ''!7in~ Eati."1:r, Rr?.n·-1'' md 

m:·~:ect ·.~iLi·, r.c·:.ll1t ( ~ to <:; dozen !1ot<>r:l). 
- 71-

WADING 

Under this headin~ the methoci and arran~rrent of the loetd should be. (338) 

described. ~e loadin~ description is not intended to be a~ exact counter 

check on the manifest as stated under ''Products." When the loadtn~ is 

fairly rep::ular and easily checked, the exact nwnber of ro1~s, laver-S and 

stacks rn.-·w be state" F.xtrerre care must be used when a 1oadin~ description certifies the number of ro#s, lavers and stacks for the insoector is 

in fact certifying th<:! number of rackag;es in the car. 

Ordinarily it will be satisfactory to show only the number of rows. ( '139) 

and layers; whether the load is a ''throu$" or "divided'' load; center 

bracinil;; and the method and arrcunt and Trl'll1Tler of strinpinp;. 

If the insoector sees the car center braced, he should state ''Center ( 3~0) 

braced .. , If the center bracin<z; is not in ~~hen the insnector leaves the 

~ar, he should report: "Center bracin~~; not in at corrpletion of inspection .. " 

Do not 1!13.ke a statement such as "Load in r:;ood order." A statement ( 341) 

of tnis kind is interpreted by railroad claim a~nts to mea~ that each 

package is in proper place. that all cross stripping; is properly placed 

and nailed, that the center bmcim; is of proner str.enP.;th a.~d that the 

lo'3.d is tif¢1t so that no end or side movement is possible. Obviously an 

inspector who sees a car only at certain intervals during; the process of loadin~. is not in a position to certifY to all of these points. 

~lirill§i or Strapping.. ''/hen containers have been wired OT' strapned ( 3112) 

for exoort or for other reasons at time or inspection, this fact should 

be stated under the "Loading'' !leading;, thus: ''Boxes stranped each end" 

or ''Crates wired each end and center." 

Condition of Packages. Bro%en, ~om, badly stained or dirty pack- (343) 

a~s should be c8.lled to the attention of the loadinr; forem?n and i r brCJ~en or tCJm pack<w;es are not removed, they should be reoorted under 

this headinp;. Exa:nple: '''l'hree sactr.s noted badly tom with contents 

spillinr;. '' fladl:; . stained or dirty packar;eG are reported under t'le 

l)roduct:s headimo;. 

\·larehouse and Storage. Lots. !.r.>ts cert'C :'ied in ·.varehcuses, storafl;eS ( 311~) 

~:1d s:!.milar locations a:re not lo'3.ded :md thls he'idtng l'lhould be followed 

tv x x xs unless it ls necessarv to describe the condition of the o •ckaP.;es 

or to reoort straooing. 
- 72 -

( 345) Standard Te:nns for Describing Loading and Bracing of Cars. Most 

of the following definitions and Plates I to IX, which will be fo~~d at 

the end of this Handbook, are taken from the "Dictionary of Standard 

Te:nns for Use in Describing LoadinP-; and Bracing ~Ethods of Fresh Fruits. 

and Vegetables" published by the Frei$t Container Bureau of the Arrerican 

Railway Association. 'lhe use of these terms will do much towards oro- mot~ •• ?; uniformity in the preparation of certificates ·and give a clear 

description of the condit:Lon of the load. 

( 346) Layer: A course or stratum of the load, parallel to the floor 

of the car and one container in heil¢lt • Plate I. 

( 347) Stack: A pile of containers extendinP;; from one side of the car 

to the other, parallel to the end of the car and one container in length. 

Plate I. 

(348) Row: A pile of containers extending lengthwise of the car, 

parallel tothe sides of th::! car and one container in width. Plate I. 

(349) First Iayer: (Bottom Layer). 'lhe containers resting on the 

floor or floor racks of the car. Plate I. 

( 350) Second Layer: '!he second layer counting from the floor. 

Plate I. 

( 351) Stack Numbering. The stacks in the car are numbered consecutively from each end of the car toward the doorwav. The stack ad,iacent 

to the bunker is numbered one, the next two, etc. 

(352) Incomolete Laver. A layer, usually the top laver, in which there 

is a smaller number of containers than in the full lavers. Plate IX. 

( 353) Guide Row. (line) A row of containers consisting of those that form 

only one layer of a row (or one row in a layer)· usually placed first ina 

car when loading is be@.ll1, for the purpose of ascertaining the number of 

stacks which can be loaded ez:d the amount of epace which will remain. Ple.te II. 

( 354) Througp Load. A load in which no space is left between doors, 

the containers being loaded from end to end of car. 'There may be space 

fillers consisting of End r.ates, F.nd Braces, End Bulkheads, Spacing Strio 

and Spacing Frames. Plate II. · 

( 35'5) Divided Load. A load that iS seoarated into two units at the 

doordays by center bracing, center ~tes or center bulkheads. If the load 

is not to be center braced or bulkheaded, it is not a divided load. Such 

undivided loads shollld be described as illustrated in the followinp; examole: 

"Loaded in each end of car, sacks 6 lavers, fi rows. Soace open between 

doors." Plate II. 
- 73 -

Lenr:truise Loadin~. 1A'he!'e the contqiners are armnged with the ()C;:'i) 

ends towards the end of the c::1r. Pl1te III. 

9rosswise Load in~ ·.'ihere the cont<Uners a.T'e arrano;ed with the ( 3'37) 

ends facin~ the sides of the car. 0 late III. 

Upright Loadin_g;. '!'he arr:::n~rr:ent of containers with the ends 

of the containers toward the floor and ceilin~<, of the car. "late III. 

(3')~) 

F.nd to F.nd Offset Lo.ad. A load in which the containers, oFtr- ( 3S0) 

ticul'lr'ly baskets rmd climax baskets are arranp;ed in rows so that each 

container (except those in the first layer) is offset and rests e~ually 

on two containers beneath. To use this method, the loadin~ pro~sses bv 

rows· ~om one end of the car to the other end. Thus: "Throu~'1 load, end 

to end offset, 6 rows, 4 layers." This is the most ccinrron loadinP-: for 

bushel baskets. Plate IV. 

Crosswise Offset. The arran11;ement of containers, particulqrly (360) 

baskets, in stacks so that each container except those in the first layer 

is offset and rests equally on two containers beneath. "'hus: "Throup;h 

load, 5-IJ crosswise offset, 4 la.vers." Plate D!. 

Inverted V or Ellis !·1ethod. In this the luJ?;-type containers (161) 

are loaded ·crosswise and no horizontal strios 'lr'e used. .Inverted V sn'lci!"JP.; 

"'rarres of 2 x 3 material are placed in uprirr,ht positions between the •1all 

of lugs and each sidewall and usu::illy on each side of the center row of 

containers. These !'rames arc .Joined at their tips by corrugated fasteners. 

Each arm of the V is diasonally in contact with the ends or one stack of 

containers and orevents them from py·ttinP.; out of alif!Tilllent. 

Side Stripped Load. Another load occasionally used is known (362) 

as ''the side stripped load. 11 Strips are nailed to sides of lug;s without 

any uprif91ts. Describe as "Strips !1ailed to si1es of lugs, no upri!'",hts." 

Alternately Inverted. The arrangement of containers, partie- (361) 

l'lr'ly hampers a"ld baskets, in which half are placed with tops up and half 

with tops down. In each row and stack adjacent containers. are a laced in 

opposite positions and containers in adjacent layers are !)laced. too to 

top and bottom to bottom. Plate IV. 

Side Load, Alternately Reversed. 'the arran11;ement of containers, (364) 

particularly hampers, in which each ·container if placed on its side 

len~hwise of the car and ~d.Jacent containers are placed with covers 

facinP.; to opposite ends of the car.. Plate IV. · 
( 36'5) Tunnel Load. A load in which the contun(;I'f; are so '3.r"""L"1r:e"' 

that in one or oore of the middle lG.)Iers some of the cont'liners are 

omitted, leavin..; channels len~hwise of the car b 11hich c8.kes r:>" ice 

are sometimes placed. 

( 366) On Bil.~_. '!'lle loadi~p; of barrels on their bilp;e v1ith t(le he'!:is 

(367) 

of the barrels either tow-'lr'd the sine or t'1e eni.of the car. It is :r,P.nerally not necessary to mention· t'lis wit'l double heaclcri barrels, h11t it 

is irrportant to show "on billl:e'' if the barrels have clot'! tons or are 

made of veneer. Plate v. 

· On Edge. Describes loadinJJ; of flat nackaP.;es 11hen on edP:e. ('lot 

necessary to state if this is the customar:v loadinn;, but s'1oul i he 

mentioned if sori:e in car are loaded flat and some 0:1 edl'l;e or if it. is 

not the customa_~ loadin~). 

(363) Dl.agonal Row. The arrRn~rrent of containers, )"J"'I'ticul:lrlv 

climax bas~ets, in the last row loaded, so that each container is at an 

angle to the containers already loaded. '!hiR 'U'J"al"ll'!,'ement is usen to "ill 

the c!"'sswise space, if any, when the load is beinp; co'Tlpleted. 

(369) StaP"p;ered Row. The arran!l;E)ment of cont:llners, oarticular'l.v 

bushel and half bushel baskets, in the last row loaded, so that the 

remaini.l11l; crosswise space is filled b.v alternatel-y placing: cne baR~et 

a¢nst the load and the next against the C'lr wall. '!'hus: "IJ rows , one 

at one side of car stap-~red." 

( 37(')) Deck Load.· A load in which some 0f the containers are sunpr:>rte:l 

upon a deck built into the c~. 

(;371) Loose Load. A load which does not fit t'le car tiut'ltly lenr:t-'1-

wise, even thou~ some space fillers mav have been used. A."lv :1ot :ce'l.bl~ 

loose loadin~ should be described • 

. ( 372) Lengthwise Soace. The difference between the i."ls: i~ lenM;'' ;" 

the car and the length of the load. Plate V. 

(373) ~rosswise Space. The difference between the inside ~1Uth of th' 

car and the total width of the load of containers. Plate VI. 

(374) Rows Soaced. Describes the loadinl'; when anproximatel.v uni"OM1 

amounts of space are left between I'OI'.'S and bet·to~een outside ra•s and side 1~alls to permit l'lir circulation throu$ the load; 
-75-

Space at Sides. Describes a load in which the containers (375) 

are stacked ip rows with no space between rows to permit as much 

space as possible left between the side walls and outside rows. 

This load is frequently used during cold weather to reduce 

freezing through side walls. The space is sometimes filled with 

insulating material. · 

Slack. The portion of space not taken up witn space (376) 

fillers. Plate V. 

Crosswise Slack. The amount of possible crosswise motion of (377) 

the load. It is usually due to the containers not completely 

filling the width of the car, or if it. is stripped, to the car 

strips not butting against both car walls or not being nailed to 

the containers. 

Space Filler. These are structures, frames or strips used (378) 

to fill the lengthwise space in the car. They are designated 

according to type as center gates, center bracing, center 

bulkheads, end gates, end braces, end bulkheads, spacing strips 

and spacing frames. Plate VIII. 

Center Brace, Center Gate, Center Bulkhead. The structure (379) 

placed between the two parts of a divided load, in the space 

between doors, to keep the load in the two ends of the car from 

shifting towards each other into ·this space. Plate VII. 

End Gate, End Brace, End Bulkhead. The structure placed at (380) 

the end of the car to fill all or part of the lengthwise space in 

a "through load." · Plate YIII. 

Spacing Frame. A structure built of car strips or o·f boards(381) 

and placed between adjacent stacks to fill part or all o~ the 

space in a "through load." Plate VIII. 

Spacing Strips. The strips or boards placed between 

adjacent stacks to fill part of all of the space ina "through 

load.'' Plate VIII. 

(382) 

car strips. The strips of wood or lath used on containers, (383) 

usually for the purpose of preventing the containers from 

shifting crosswise of the dar. All or any certain layers may be 

stripped. Stripping may be reported as "nailed" or "not nailed", 

however, statements as to nailing must be restricted to the 

portions of the load which the inspector has been able to 

observe. Packages are "single stripped" when only one strip is 

used on a single layer of a stack and "double stripped" when two 

strips are used. When the stripping is not that customarily 

used, or when the packages are fragile, it may be desirable to 

show whether single or double stripping is used. Plate VIII. 
- 76 -

(3il11) Vertical StripDinr;. Vertical stripninq; is usecl in sotre shipments o" western p;rnnes, deciduous fruits Md tomatoes. 'f'11o orincioal ~ethods are used: (1) Strirrs placed a~ the corners of the containers, 

.known to the trade as the ''Hon.k Load." (2) Stripr; placed in the center 

o!' the ends of the. containers, known to the trade as the "Lindley Load." 

1:1 both cases the strips usually extend well above the ton o~' the load. 

These trethods should ~.e renorted as: ( 1) "Vertical strips at comem of 

luv,s." (2) "Vertical strios at ends o~' lug;s." 

(3fl<;;) Inco!Tlllete Laver Brace. A structure built so as to hold in 

!'OSition ag;ainst shifting; an incomplete .laver of containers. 0 late IX. 

( 3H6) Sten-Un 3race. A type of incomplete layer brace that raises 

one or more lavers of containers in a stack so that the raiserl. containers 

br3ce the incomplete laver ag;ainst shiftin~. Plate IX. 

( 387) Bulk Load. If the product is in bulk, such as cabbA.Il;e and 

(388) 

(389) 

(390) 

(391) 

potatoes, the approximate depth of the load should be shown and whether 

loaded entire length of car or in the ends with a slatted or solid bulkhead retainin~ the load at the door11ays, or if the load is divided into. 

bins. Examnles: 

( 1) ·•nul.k, throug;h load, 11 to 'i feet deen, doorways boarded 

to heiPjlt of load. 11 

· ( 2) ''Bulk, divided loacl, 3 to 5 feet deep , bulkheads braced. " 

V-Tyne .Bulkheads. These bulkheads are first placed loose in 

ends of 0ar and m;lved forward as the loading pro(T,I'esses , until they meet 

in the center. Example: "Divided load, anproximately !I feet deep. 

R end divided by bulkhead at 1/2 length; V-tYl;)e bulkheads between doors. 

!3ulkheads 11-1/2 feet hi$ and braced to ceilinp;." 

A-TYPe Ventilator. The trianr,Mlar slat ventilator placed lengthwise on the floor in many cars of bulk ~abball;e. Example: "Throu$ load, 

11 to 5 feet deep. A-type slat ventilator throu$ center, approximately 

2-1/2 feet spread, 2 feet heip.j1t. Doors boarded to hei!ljlt .of load. 11 

Top Ice or Ice Over Load. Ice over the top of the load should 

be reported under the 11Loading11 heading of the certificate in all cases. 

Top ice may consist of chunk ice or crushed ice,· which is distributed over the top of the load. The denth of top ice may be stated 

approximately in inches or feet. 
* * * * * * 

- 77 - Revised June 6, 1973-BN-56-2(a) 

The tenn "snow ice" is rather co11111only used in seine parts of (392) 

the cQt.mtry to describe the very finely crushed or shaved ice used in 

packages or blown over the tops of loads. Practices as to the fir.~ness 

to which it is crushed are so variableit is not believed practicable 

to attempt to make distinction between "snow" and "crushed ice". The 

tenn "crushed ice" should be used to describe both types o!' ice. 

Reporting Loadin~ in Mixed Cars or Trucks. When several certi- (393) 

ficates are issued on d1fferent products in a mixed car, the arrangement of the load should be described on only one of the certificates. 

Under this heading on the other certificates the follot~ing notation 

should be made: "See certificate (number)". These certificates should 

be linked together by proper cross reference under a "Remarks" heading. 

Describing Palletized Loads. Describe the loading of the pallets 

and the number llf rows and layers of containers on the individual 

pallets. For example, "Through Load, 2 pallets wide; 3 rows, 16 layers 

(393a) * 

on pallets". This very abbreviated description is the minimum to be 

reported. More detailed information may be reported such as the 

number of containers per layer if desirable. 

REPORTING RANGE AND AVERAGE PERCENTAGES 

(A) Averages. (394) 

Average percentage of grade defects, off-size and decay shall be 

reported to the nearest ~1hole number (par. 422.). Statements dealing 

with average percentages must be based on sufficient samples believed 

by the inspector to be representative of the lot.· 

• Average percentages of defects, off-size, decay and other factors (395) 

are often not sufficient to give a true picture of irregular conditions 

that may exist in corrmercial shipments of fruits and vegetables. The 

irregular conditions in these factors, which are found in inspections, 

makes it necessary to establish a definite policy in reporting ranges. 

(B) Ranges. (396) 

A range reports the 1 owes t and highest percentages of a factor that 

has been found in the samples examined during the inspection procedure. 

When a lot is below grade, either because the average exceeds the grade 

tolerance or because individual containers exceed the container tolerance, the range as well as the avera~e percentage must be reported regardless of the length of the range (see par. 502). On factors where 

no tolerance is involved, a range should be reported when by doing so 

a better picture of the corrmercial value of the lot will be given. 

* 

* * * * 
- 78 -

( 397) It is reco~ized that when rano:es of" nercentarces a.'"'E! lonr:, such "!.'> 

10 ;;o 35%, the mathematical averar;e mav be varied slil7,ht ly by exa"''ininrr, 

an additional hi~ or low sample, however, when sufficient s:mtnles h"tve 

been exa'111ned this should be of little nractical cons<:quence. It ·has 

been round desirable to use only un11uali fied percenta.g;es under the 

quality, condition, size and pack headin~ on certificates. Do not use 

the word "approximately"' to '!Ualifv a1 uvera~ nercentar;e U.'11er these 

headings, . re~dless · o" the lenJSth of a rano;e or in connection •.d th an 

estimated percentaP-;e such as is sometimes usect on P.;r:::t;:>es. ''Approximte}·l" 

is to ue used only in connection with Grade statements. (Re"er to nar. 

~543 - 544) . 

( 398) . Never show a ran~ f'rom zero to a percent~ but reoort thus: 

''V!o:>t samoles no decay, many sarrples 2 to fi'!:, avera~ ~% decay." 

. i 1"'. 1 \ . . . ) 

Exa~les of reportinP-; ran~ and avera~ nercenta~es: 

(a) Grade defects B to 2'1% avey-ar:e }.3'li:, :nostl.y------etc. '' 

(b) Fran 4 to 26% averai7,E' Hl% defects (or decay or off-size). 

(c) "'rom 13 to 64% avera~ 3'11, of ootatoes are U.'1der li ozs. 

Use of Fractions. 

F'ract:i.onal nercentap;es ·should not he used exceot :i.n comer.tion with 

r.=nortinll; minute amounts of decay, such il.S "Less tl-Jan :!./? of 1"- decay.'' 

?ractions may·be used to ;]DOd advanta~ in reportin~ more 1efi~ite 

in;'orr.J'.I.tiOn than is possible b.v the use· o" g;eneral terms. However, i.;he 

Uf'·~ o!' fractions shoLtld be llmited to certain "actors itt which it 1.~ 

no~ '.'ea::;ihle to reoort percentaJSeS, such as the follmdng;: 

, \~hen the exact ~umber or packa.P.":e:::; showing B. certain conr3J :.1.~~!1 ~~:1.'1-

~ )t o;.; :.i.et<?rn!.lned, but ·.-r11en ::l. ~:;u-rficient num~e~ h:=ts Dee:l 3ee:1 t(: .~ust. i .1:':1 

a state·nent a;:, to the fl.pproxirnate frn,~tioni!l oar·t sho'>lin:r, the co~r.i t1 :1~1 

P·~:oort.edG 

SxaJlllle: Tn ar.proximatclv 3/'1 of crat.e.s pack tio;Jt, rem'linder· 

fairl.y tiptlt. 

2. W~en advisable to divide a p0rce'1tal2):. 

Exa.r~b: ?. to 12;-;, averap;e 81', decay (Bl!.le Mold >lot) anr.m.Jri~:tely 

1/2 in adva.11ced sta~es, re•nainder j.n e"lrly st ::o.r;es. 
**** 

Revised, May2011, HU-155-10(a) 

Page 79, General, Shipping Point Inspection 

Instructions, January 1966 

-79-

Certifying Bulk Loads. The variation found in bulk loads should not be treated ( 402) 

like similar variations found in packages in applying the rule of double, or one and onehalftimes the tolerance. Variations found in samples of different parts of the load do not 

warrant throwing a load out of grade if the .average obtained by properly chosen samples 

shows the lot as a whole to average within the tolerance. The car, as a general thing is 

sold as a .unit.and should be .so inspected unless it is divided into bins by bulkheads, or 

cross partitions of yarious kinds. It ·is then prqper to tre!ft such bin .as a separate unit, 

even though there may be but one variety in the whole car. Bulk loads are frequently 

divided, and if so, each part may be treated as a unit and certified separately if there is a 

material difference in the quality or condition of the two parts. If this is done, no attempt 

should be made to strike an average for the load as a whole. 

When Small Number of Specimens in Package. In commodities that are packed 

with a small number of specimens to the container, such as cantaloups, cauliflower, 

pineapples, etc., the following policy should be followed: 

1. When the number of specimens to the container vary because of different sizes, 

the range of defective stock. should be reported by using both the number of specimens 

and the percentage, using parentheses to cover the percentage, i.e., Ranging from 1 to 4 

melons per flat (11 to 50%), average 25%. 

2. When the number of specimens in the containers do not materially vary, only the 

range of the number of defective specimens in the different samples examined and an 

average percentage need be reported, i.e., Range from 1 to 4 melons per flat, average 

25%. 

(403) 

  

Reporting Averages on Restricted Certificates. When the entire contents of a car, ( 404) 

truck, or lot in storage is accessible, and an.unrestricted certificate can be issued, it is 

satisfactory to report the .average as "for the load" or "lot," but when only part of the load 

or lot is accessible for inspection, and the certificate is restricted accordingly, the use of 

the phrase "Average for lot" is obviously incorrect. In a restricted certificate, the 

statement covering defects or decay should not refer to the entire load or lot but should 

read: "Range2 to 15%, average 10%, decay, consisting of etc." 
Revised, May 2011, HU-155-10(b) 

Page 80, General, Shipping Point Inspection 

Instructions, January 1966 

-80-

GENERAL QUANTITY TERMS 

( 405) Averages cannot always be obtained, especially in reporting how many .containers 

** ** 

(406) 

(407) 

show a certain condition. In such cases the following terms may be used with the 

meanings given: 

Term Means 

·Occasiona11 .5% or less 

Few W% orless 

Some 11 to25% 

Many 26 to45% 

Approximately half 46 to 54% 

Most, Mostly 55 to 89%2 

Generally 90% ormore

3 

Practically all 96% or more 

1 Used only in reference to .containers. See paragraph407. 

2 See paragraphs 412-414. 

3 Seeparagraphs409-411. 

Complements of Most Quantitv Terms Necessary. A complement is defined as 

one of two mutually completing parts. The terms "occasional;'' "few," "some," "many," 

"approximately half," and "most" require complements of some kind to account for the 

entire 100%. Likewise, under some uses ••practically all," "generally," and "mostly" 

require complements. These complements may be: (1) another quantity term; (2) a 

percentage; (3) a fractional portion of bulk load or packages; (4) certain mark or marks, 

preferably with number ofpackages shown; (.5) a definite portion of load shown by 

descriptive location, preferably with number of packages given if it is a package load. 

The type of complement used is determined by conditions. Examples of above 

conditions, the factor being dirt: (1) In most packages fairly clean, in many dirty. (2) 

Mostly slightly dirty, 5 to 25%, averaging 15% caked with mud. (3) Most of the load 

fairly clean; in approximately l/5 of packages mixed through load stock is dirty. (4) In 

most packages clean; in J. Doe mark, (Loaders count 35 packages) dirty. (5) In most 

packages clean, in 40 packages in two stacks next to bunker B end of car stock dirty. 

The term "occasional" should be used only with reference to containers. The 

other terms would apply both to packages and individual specimens. Their use with 

reference to individual specimens, however, should be limited to such factors as color, 

cleanness, fimmess, and maturity. Decay or specific blemishes and defects, and the part 

of a lot which shows a commercially undesirable state of maturity must always be stated 

in percentages of fractions. 

***• 
- Ill -

Uses of' "rzenerally" The word "p;enerally" rm.:v be used on certifi- ( II.J8) 

cates 7 without coiTIDlement, with the meanina; that such excentions, as 

occur, 1.re of no comnercial imoortance. 'T'o say that a oack is "g;enerally 

tia;ht" :neans that -;xcentions are so few as to be unworthy of rrention. 

Caution Rel2fU'Ciing; Overuse of ''rzenerally." Inspectors frequently ( 1109) 

overuse""g;eneral1y11 through carelessness or a desire to nlay safe. The 

ove:-use of "g;enerally" can weaken a certificate. If the inspector finds 

hil"lSelf usin11; "12;enerally'' 5 or fi tirres on a certificate, he should check 

to see if his staterrents cannot be made more exact. In order to promote 

uniformity in this comection "11;enerally" should not modify firm, if no 

other condition factors are nresent, unless trore than 1% is fairly firm 

or soft. If 1% or less is fairly firm or soft, the product should be 

described as firm. The same rule applies to all descriptive terms such 

as color, form, smoot~~ess, cleanness, etc. 

When Unrjersize or Percentage of Defects Such as Irrmaturity or other ( 410) 

Similar ·Factors do not Exceed 10%, Use '

1

rzenerall,y" in Describinr: the 

Remainder of the Product. The quantitative term 11 11;enerally11 is defined 

as rre~im; 90% or more and, aside· from the instructions in the preceding 

paragraphs, there is no exception m'l.de to the definition. 'Iheref'ore:, when 

the tolerance for undersize is l'l% or less and the total .percentage scored 

is over 1% and r.10t more than 10%, "genE!!'ally" should be used to describe 

the size of the stock that is not undersize. Likewise, when the percentage 

of imnaturity is over 1% and not trore than 10%, "P-;enerally" should be used 

:j.n reporting the m'l.turity of the·remainder of the stock; '!he sarre policy 

applies to other factors. This policy does not include factors that are 

scored under definitions in the Standards such as staining of onions. 

Exarr;>les: 

1. . (Potatoes with 6% undersize). rzenerally 1-7/8 to 3-112, mostly 

2-1/4 to 3 inches. From 1 to 10%, average 6% under 1-7/8 inches in 

diarneter. 

2. (Watermelons with· 8% immaturity). Generally mature ••••...•..•••• 

average including 8% imnature me~ons. 

"Generally" should not be used to qualify a statement reporting ( 411) 

freedom fran decay. If decay is present, it should be reoorted in percentage figures. If no decay is found, the staterrent "No deca,y" should 

be lll3.de. However, the use of ''generally" in a decay staterrent in such 

instances as the following is permissible: "ll!gs generally shCM no decay; 

in ap0roxim'l.tel,y 2'i lugs stacked next A bunker, deca,y ranges from 2% 

to 8%, average 6%. 
- 82 -

(412) Uses of ''Mostly.'' ~~o c~lerrent of ''mostly" is :-:ecessary when the 

word is used in reference to a narrower ra'1ge of si:>:e or color within a"l 

inclusive ran~, or in re!'erence to one or two deg;rees or sta;;es o" a 

factor wi thi.'l an inclusive ran~ of de~es or sta;o;es. Such factors include pack, uniformity of' size, and any factor of 1uality and condition. 

Exarrples: 

1. 2 to 3-1/2 inches in diameter, mostly 2-1/4 to 3 inches. 

2. Hard to firm ripe, mostly firm. 

( 413) '!he ter:n ''mostly" without a co~lerrent may also be use::i \~here small percenta~s of a nurrber of different kL'1ds of ::iefects have been found but 

only one or t·.~o of the mst if1)ortant are m<?ntione:l.. Exarmle: (~"ects - 5': misshape:!, 3% gro11th cracks, 1'1: '1/orm dama;o;e, 1% sunscald). "Avera;o;e 

10% defects mostly T!lisshapen and gl'OWth cracks.'' This r.taraJ7'8.ph is not 

to be considered as prohibitin~~; rrention of small percentaf,es of such pro~ssive factors as Blackheart, scald and '!'ip.bum which may be of 

particular interest to those who may use the certificate. Also, if the 

lot is in storage or it is known that it is ;:;oin~ i."ltO storage, s.mall 

amunts of condition factors such as Late Blight of (:elerv, colllTlOn Scald 

of Apples, etc., ma.v be s~ecifically nentioned as their presence :nav 

i.'1fluence the sto~ plans of the applicant·. 

( ~14) When the term "mostly" is used, t!'le oroduct s!'lould. s!'low ver;.v plainly S5% or more of the factor as described. If·i~ is desirable to state a 

"mostly," the inspecto!" should make se!larate colu!Tl1s on the note sheet 

for recordi.'111; the factors to fl!'lich this term is to !:le anolied. .A. certificate nav !:le reversed on the stateMent of a ''mostly'' as well as the 

..,:·'l:ie state:nent. If the''mostly" refers to a na."TO'IIer ra."lse ·111thin an 

extrene ran;o;e (a~ with dia~ters, wei~ts of heads, color pe!"cen~agF-s on 

apples, etc.) enou$ repre~entative snecimens should be !Tl9asu:-ed, wei~ed, 

or othert~ise ,j'..ldg;ed to establish ;.;ith ce!"t? ..int.v t~e truth o~ ~he st'l.te- ~nts to be made. There is a tendencv to over-~~e the te:"m ~ostly in 

c~nditions like that shown in the first E:Xa';!,Jle above. Do not '..!Se t':is 

term to denote a na."TTWer ran~ within the extre~ r-angF- i" there is 

fairly unifor.n distri!:lution between the extremes ?~ 1.'1 the ~olloflin~ 

examole: 

Example: 

~~o ''mstly" shoul,d be shown for the rollowin~~;. percP.nta~s - 2%, 6%, 4%, 5%, 8%, 2%, 7%. It is ust..ally :;ot r:ecessar;r to 

state a "mostly" of the size of apples or other products 

which show such a narrow ran;o;e as 2-114 to ). 
Revised Au~st 2S, 1966- BN 27-1 

- 83 -

Uses of "Re!l13inder." 'T'his word is not a oroner comolement o" 'l!1Y ( 1115) 

of the p;e:1eral quantity te!"!llS except "anoroximately hA.lf." Its mea'1in" 

with the others would be ertirely t )O indefinite. "Remainder'' :Tiily be 

used as a corrplerrent of a. fractional nortion of a load, however, as "In 

app::-oxi:na.tely 3/4 of "''Jacka;;es ti$t, in remainder fairly tipt!t." 

Use of "Approximately", "About". ( 416) 

':'he word ''about" ma.y be usei to divide a nercentagc. Thus "8 to 35% (1117) 

average 20% ~ade defects, about 1.12 c~~sisting of worm injury, 1/2 

bruises." :i:t may be used also to divide number, or fractional proportions, 

of packages. Thus: "In apl)roximately 1/3 of oackaees stock is dirty, in 

about 1/2 of these stock is also wet." · 

The irrplication of the 1·10rd "A.pnroximatel:v" is that an attemot has ( !lHl) 

been made to determine the facts as accurately as oo~sible. The implication of the word "about" is more loose and this word, except for the 

pur;:>o5e just mentioned, weakens a certificate. 

IE.rr;;er Proport-ion l:'irst. '!'he more general condition should be ( 1;19) 

stated first, the less corrmon or exceptional one or ones followinP.;. Thi~ 

order presents the picture with the more logical and consistent effect " 

th:t'1 to e~hasize t:1e less general condition by rnentionin~ 1 t first. Thus: 

1. 'bstly ti~t, in sorre packap;es sliP;htl,y slack. 

2 . ~.e:1erally fairly firm, 5% soft . 

Exceptions: ( 1) Where it seems more lop;ical, sta11;es o" mat,lritv 

may be reported in their· natural order,. be~nninp; 

with the one least advanced. 

(2) \>/hen l)ivin~ oroportions of stock -:eetin!l; re'juirements of the different grades ir. a canbination 

pack, the hirper ~ade should be mentioned first, 

anc;J. the amount of culls last. Thus: "Avera;;e 

approximately 30% of stock is of U. S. ~o. 1 

crualitv, 5~% of. u. S. ~o. 2 quality, 15% showin~ 

defects affectin~:; U. S. ~o. 2, mostly worm i:1.j ury." 
- 84 -

( 420) Entire Lot ll\lst be Accounted !"or. '.men a oart or a lot is described 

as showing a certain condition, the picture must be corrnleted. It is not 

sufficient to say simply "t-bstly tilltlt," or ''In annroximately 1111 or 

packages stock in fresh." '!his raises the flUestion at once whether the 

pack in the re!Tl3.inder of the packa~;es is "very ti$t," "fairly t1$t, '' 

or "slack," and whethe>r in the 1/4 of packages the stock is ""'airly fresh,'' 

or "stale." Such a general quanti tv term rrust be used only with a comolerJent 

as .already shown. 

( 421) Do Not anit Qualifying Terrrs. 1.</hen a statement is rnde without 

qualification regarding any factor or condition, it aoplies to all nackages 

or the entire lot •. When the inspector states ''Apples are fir:n, in 

few packages fairly firm," or "2 to 3 inches in dii'Ulleter, 3% unrlersize," 

he is inconsistent. '!he prooer staterrent is: "Aonles !U'e generally firm, 

in a few packages fairly firm'' and "".enerally 2 to 1 inches in diarooter, 

3% undersize." 

( 422) Reporting !"ractional Percentases. H'ractional nercentages s'1ould not 

be used on the certificate except Ln the case of' renorting small amounts 

of decay. When the average of the inspector's scores on the note sheet 

results in a whole n~~er and a fraction, the following rules should be 

followed: 

(a) When the fraction is 0.4 or less, the nercentage should be 

.rounded out to the next lowest number. Examole: 1.4% should 

be reported as 1%. and 10.4% should be reoorted as lrJ'L 

(b) When the fraction is O.'i% ·or more, the nercenta~;e should be 

rounded to the next hi~est whole number, excent when the 

tolerance is 1% or less. Example: 1.5% should be reported 

as 2% and 10.5% should be reported as ll'L 

(c) When the tolerance is 1% or less than 1%, renort as"less than 

l/2 of 1% when the average is not greater th'l!1 0. 4"1,. I" the 

average is 0.5 to 0.9%, report as "less than 1%,'' except that 

an average of 0.5'11: defects should be reported as "1/2 of 1%" 

when the tolerance is O.'i%. 

(d) When the inspector finds his samples average less than 1/2 of 

1% 1n excess of the tolerance (as 10. 3%) he should take more 

samples and put the car definitely in or out of grade, 1f' 

possible. If this is not possihle, the .3 or other decimal 

over the tolerance, but·less than 1/2 of l%,should be dronryed. 
- q5 -

PACK 

Refet·ence to facin12;, completeness of wraopinl';, use of' oiled wraps, ( 1J21) 

shredded oiled paper, shim<;, liners, pads, lace collRrS, side curtains 

etc, , are rnde under this headin~. Soecial neatness or. roull;hness 6f' 

pack should be noted. Show use of crushed or chunk nack~ ice under 

this headinP,;, statinf", IIDlOunt and where placed in packru:;e. The various 

Products Circulars will contain detailed information for reportin~ the 

pac~s of the products covered. 

It is orten not necessary to mention the features of a pack which ( 1J24) 

are usual and to be expected, but the unusual should alw~ys be noted. For 

illustration, it has become standard practice in all areas to ship citrus 

without wrappin~; therefore, when citrus is not wrapped it need not be 

mentioned. 

Since fillin~r, of containers and ti$tness of pack are so clo:'!ely (IJ?t;) 

related, no attempt will be made in this handbook to determine which terms s~ould be applied to specific products or containers. If comnliance with 

Standard Pack or Standards for Export ts involve;;I'f~ct=-.should apply 

the terms and definitions in the Standards and 'Products Circulars. 

Condition of Pack for open or unlidded containers ~y be described in (426) 

terms of fill - as level full, well filled, fairly well filled, slack, 

etc. , accordinP-; to the facts. ~<'or other containers, terms describin.rz; 

·ti~tness or fill ~Y usually be applied dependin12; uoon the :-roduct and 

types of containers (see Products Circulars). The followinll; terms should 

be used: 

Very Till;ht - meaninp; the extreme of the condition described under 

TiR7Jt. Too tiP-;ht for best results, and too much bul~;e for the p;ood of 

products, usually resultinP-; in bad bruising, 

(/127) 

the 

Level Full - meanin12; the product is level with the top ed~ of the 

container. 

(428) 

Tight or Well Filled- means that the packaJ:>;e is sufficiently filled (420) 

to prevent =vement of the product within, a11d to furnish the prooer bul~ 

with products and packages requirinp; a bull!;€!. The amount of bulr.;e ~v be 

shown in inches or fractions of inches. Hampers, luP-;S, crates and similar 

packages with covers will be filled so that the contents are in firm contact with the cover. 
- 811 -

(1130) "«'airly Tigtlt or Fairly Well "'illeQ.- rreans pack is not ideal, but is ; 

( 431) 

( 432) 

( 433) 

between tight or well rtlled and slack. Tight enough to prevent specimens 

fran rrovin11; within the: packa~ sufficiently to cause in1ury under normal 

handling conditions. There ma,y be a proper bulg;e to packa.P,es but slight 

looseness in layers. HaJ!t.lers, lugs, crates and similar pakca~s are 

filled so thar the product may be slightly below the top ed~ but not more 

than 1/2 inch below. 

Slack - This term is to ~e used when the pack cannot be described with 

any of the oreceding terms, but should'never be used without describimr, 

the slackness in fractions of an inch or in inches. 

In Bulk or Sacks - ltfuen the product is in bulk or in sacks, the 

heading "Pack" should be followed by x x xs. The descri'Dtive terms for 

"fill" should not be used for sacks because they do not give any information concerning ~he wei~t of the containers. Should this be in question, 

it can be determined only by actual weiP,;ht and a report made under the 

"Pack" heading;. ·' 

Cell and Tray Packs - The fill of' tray and cell type containers can 

usually be judl?;6d by the degree of filling of the individual cups in the 

~ray or .of the-cells in the carton. If there is no moverrent of the fruit, 

they· can generally be cons:..dered well filled and if there is only slil?):lt 

movement of the fruit, the~· can bP. considered fairly well filled. At 

tire of packi."1g. the bull?;6 on tra.v nacks is a 'Sllide as to the degree of· 

filling. However, at times these· packs may q.opea.r to be slack due to 

variations in the shape of the fr~it or to softening and settling; of the 

travs due to their aosorption of moisture in storage. Whenever the fillin~ of this type of container is in question, the final determination 

as to filling rust be based on net ~reip;ht marked on the contai."ler or any 

l~~al net weight which may have been established for the product in the 

container, Packages weighinP,; 5% more thai"\ the standard net wei;#Jt of the 

container will be considered ·11ell filled. Packa~s ·,1eighing; le.?s than 

the stand't:rd net weight will be considered ;:;lack. D.te t.) the :;resence of 

trays or dividers in the containers, marking;s as to the ci.!!lic contents do 

not apoly; they should be marked with the net •..reight. 

3ulge - This is the distance of the hi'¢lest part of the curve of the 

lid ~tove the level of the top edge of the e"lds o~ the package or th~ top 

side slats when the~' are flush with the tons of the ends. 
Revised July 17, 1977 BN-78-l(b) - 87 - .Revised June 29, 1979- BN-85-l(a) 

* 

.. 

* 

1t 

How to Judce Tiahtness or Fill. Tightness o~ fill should always be (435) judged 'Hhen the container is resting on its b.:Jttom. Inspectors should 

.also take into consideration whether the package is on a rigid surface, 

such as a car or warehouse floor, or whether it is resting on the ends 

of other crates which permit the bottom side to become convex. This 

would make the crate appear slack at.the top when in reality it is 

fairly well or well filled. 

Most products packed in ice.shoulcl be judged by the tightness of the (436) product inlayers rather than the tightness of packages themselves 

which may be determined by the amount of ice in the pack. See the 

Products Circulars for discussion of pack for such products as lettuce, 

carrots, etc. 

Arranoement in Layers. The following terms refer to the arrangement (437) of fruit in the layer: 

Straiaht Pack: A pack in which the specimens in the layers above the (438) bottom layer rest directly above the specimens in the layer beneath. 

Oi agona 1 Pack: A pack in which bottom layer fruits are p 1 aced so that ( 1139) they are not opposite each other horizontally, but fit partially into 

the spaces between fruits in the adjacent row. Fruits in the second 

and any additional layer are not placed directly over those in the ~ayer :,eneath, but are "nested" between the tops of the fru:its in the 

next lower layer. Thus the packed fruit is in diagonal rows. 

Off-set ?ack. A pack in which alternating space is left at the end of (440) 

eac:1 !"'JW in each 1 ayer and the specimens above t:1e ::ott om 1 ayer rest 

•Jpon one specimen in the outside rows and two spetimens in the inside 

r:ws in the layer beneath. 

3ridae Pack. A pack in which a portion of an additional layer is (441) 

placed in tne package in order to secure a bridge. The products are 

generally Iceberg type of head lettuce in crates, and tomatoes in lugs. 

When requested to eenify as to weight ONLY !lET ·~"EIGR! shall be reported. ( 44 2 ·;" 

!{et weight only ;nay be ce..."'1::.fied without :~aki:lg an inspection for grade ~ 

or condition. Charges for c.!U.s service should ':le :~ade on an hourly ra:::e ~ 

basis "Ji:h the :i.c.i:rum fee usually of C"MO hours. * 

.. 
RJvised June ~~. 1979 BN-85-l(a) Revised July 17, 1977 BN-78-l(b) 

(442a) 

... 

• 

* 

* 

* 

... 

* 

- 88 -

DEl'D!MlNL'<G wt:IGHTS .".J.'<D TARES 

The inspector should always be on ehe alert for packages which are * 

u;ceptionally heavier or lightar t:han usual and include a proponionate * 

n!llllber of th~e packages in the determination of tare. Water-soaked * 

or IIIWi-Cali;ed packages or these made of exceptionally heavy material .. 

a.s well a.s tbose of lighter lll&t&rial should be emptied and waighed * 

to cietum:Lne the average tare. Five (S) containers are usU&lly * suff~ient when the tare wught iii fairly uniform, but mora thai:1 S * 

should be used when wide var:l.atiotLS in we.ight ara found. * 

* * ( 4.:12 b) Pacages containing pack ica should be empc:ied and ouly the product " 

.,. weighed in determining c.et weight. The container and pack ice are " 

• we.igb.ed to detU:.ine care and reponed ouly on che applicant's request .. 

* giving the range, c.ot an average. * 

* (442c) 

"' ... 

.. 

• 

.. 

.. 

(443) 

The inspector should always ncte any and all unusual cirC".JmStances, such 

as, cern sacks with contents sp~led; spotted sacks> resewn or 

repaired containers; wet, leaky, mud-caked, slacs broken, etc.; and 

especially if che contents shews excessive aging, less of moisture, 

w:!..lting or ciec:er1cratiou t:h.ac may affec:c c:he weight of ehe produce. 

In a.dd:l.ticu t:o describing the above fact:ors under "Ccudi:icu of 

Containers" any such containers weighed sHOuld be annoeat:ed on che 

11otesheee fer future rl!ference. This may be done by checking or· 

circling the weights on Che c.ocesheet of t:hose cont.a.J.ners •<~hich have 

indications of dete:rioraeion. 

Lots •"ith posit:ive lot identification, such as, ":ed-Scat e !nsp. Lee 

257, 5-lJ-79," should be checked carafully in relaeion eo date of 

~est, data of inspection(s), and deterioraeion because of possible 

revusal on c.ee •o1eight certifications. 

When requested to ce~ify as to specified or marked weight the 

following procedures shall be used for both Stationary lot Sampling and oi'l-1 ine Samol ing. . 

"Stationa;J Lot" (Random selection of sample containers from a 

lot for wh ch the production has been completed. This type of 

:ot is u~uaHy stored in a warehouse or in some other storage 

area and is offered intact for inspection). 

"On-line" (Random selection of sample containers from a produc· tion line. Production is in progress while on-line sampling is 

conducted. Portion of production can be accepted, ro:jected, or 

held pending further sampling results during on-line sampling). 

... 

.. 

* 

... 

' 

• 

... 

... 

.. 

... 

.. 

.. 

.. 

.. 

* 

'· 
**** 

  

Revised, September 1991, HU-110-6(a) 

Page 88a, Para. 443, General, Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-88a-

(1) Disregard lot size. 

(2) Stationary lot: Randomly select 36 sample units. 

On-line: Weigh sample containers at timed ~ntervals. 

At least 36 sample units shall be weighed for any 

lot, and the total number of sample units to be 

weighed when certification is based on a days run 

equal approximately 36 sample units per car lot 

equivalent. 

(2a) Modification of Net Weight Certification Policy 

Exception to the minimum number of containers to be 

weighed (36) per lot may be made only in the 

following circumstance: · · 

On-line certification when the carrier lot 

consists of more than one identifiable lot; 

that is; brands, sizes_, varieties, type of 

pack, etc. 

It is permissible to officially certify net weight 

on partial lots using the following table: 

No. of Containers 

in Lot 

0 - 250 

251 - 500 

501 - 750 

751 - 1000 or more 

No. of Containers 

t.o be Weighed (min) 

10 

20 

30 

36 

When any container in a lot is below the marked or 

specified weight it will be necessary to weigh 36 sample 

units, instead of the 10, 20, or 30 sample units as 

shown above.** ** 

(3) When a scale reading is between two graduation 

marks, read to the nearest graduation mark. 

.(4) Weigh and record each sample unit to the nearest: 

1/2 ounce for containers packed to a marked or 

specified weight of less than 10 pounds; and 

1/4 pound for containers packed to a marked or 

specified weight of 10 pounds and over.  

Revised, March 1981, BN-89-l(a) 
(444) 

Revised, September 1991, HU-110-6(b) 

Page 88b, Para. 443 & 444, General, Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-88b-

(5) After weighing all sample units the.-exact average 

net weight must meet the weight marked ori the 

containers or any weight specified by the 

applicant. 

(6) No individual sample unit shall weigh less than 

the appropriate reasonable shortage limit 

specified in Table I. 

When lots are certified as failing to meet the 

requirements of average weight marked or specified or 

reasonable shortage limit in individual sample units, the 

certificate must show under the "Pack" heading the 

reasonable shortage limit, the range in weights, exact 

average, and percent of sample units failing to meet the 

reasonable shortage limit such as: 

Examples: ( 1) 2 lb. package (Fails average weight) 

Reasonable shortage limit: 30.00 ounces net. 

Range from 30.50 to 33.50, average 31.52 

ounces net. 

(2) 1 lb. package (Exceeds reasonable shortage 

limit) 

Reasonable shortage limit: 14.50 ounces net. 

Range from 14.00 to 16.50, average 15.88 

ounces with 9 percent of sample units below 

14.50 ounces net. · 

(445) When lots are certified as meeting the requirements of 

average weight marked or specified and reasonable shortage 

limit in individual sample units, the certificate must show 

under the "Pack" heading the range in weights such as: 

Examples: (1) Ranges from 30.50 to 33.50, averaging more 

than 32 ounces net. 

(2) Ranges from 16.50 to 19.50 ounces net. 
Revised, September 1991, HU-110-6(c) 

Page 88c, Para. 446-448b, General, Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-SSeThe actual weight certification shall appear under the 

"Grade" heading on the inspection certificate such as: 

Examples: ( 1) 

(2) 

(3) 

Meets marked weight. 

Fails to meet marked weight account of sample 

.unit average below declared weight. 

Fails to meet marked weight account of 

unreasonable shortage in few, some or many sample units. --- ---- ----

Reporting-Percent of Containers Under Specified or Marked 

Weight 

It is permissible, at applicants request only, to report 

under the "Remarks" heading on the certificate the percent 

of containers under the specified or marked weight. 

The regular spring balance scales furnished to inspecto-rs 

are not sensitive enough to weigh to the nearest 1/2 ounce_ .. Therefore, if inspectors are requested to report weights of 

small packages, they should use more sensitive scales. 

Prepackers and chain stores who put up small packages are 

usually equipped with scales sensitive enough to weigh 

accurately to the nearest 1/2 ounce. 

When inspections are made for weights, the following_ 

information shall be shown on the note sheet for future 

reference: 

1. Type of scale, i.e., spring or beam balance,; name 

of scale, e.g., Chatillon etc. used. 

2. Graduations of the scale. (1/4 ounce, 1/2 ounce, 

ounce, 1/4 lb., 1/2 lb., or pound.) · 3. Owner of scale (whether Government scale or 

applicant scale or other source) • 

Alway·s place the scales on a firm and level support. When 

using spring balance scales, counter or bench type such as 

model F-lOZ, sample containers must be centered on the scale 

platform. This type of scale will only weigh accurately 

when the sample container is centered on the scale platform. 

Before using this type of scale always check your zero-load 

balance; i.e., the dial must indicate zero when there is no 

sample container on the scale. Regardless of the source 

(applicant, government, etc.) of any type of scale to be 

used, precheck the accuracy of the scales using an approved 

standard test weight. 

Revised July 1977, BN-78-1(b) 

(446) 

(447) 

(448) 

(448a) 

(448b) 
Revised, September 1991, HU-110-6(d) 

Page 88d, Table I, General, Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-88dTABLE I 

Reasonable Shortage Limits 1/ 

Marked or Specified Net Weight 2/ No individual container 

** ** 

1/ 

2/ 

- may weigh less than 

Pounds Grams Pounds & Ounces 

.• 50 190.8 6.50 oz. 

1. 00 405.6 14.50 oz. 

2.00 859.2 1 lb. 14.00 oz. 

3.00 1288.8 2 lbs. 13.50 oz. 

4.00 1718.4 3 lbs. 12.50 oz. 

5.00 2148.0 4 1bs. 11.50 oz. 

8.00 7 lbs. 10.00 oz. 

10.00 9. lbs. 8.00 oz .. 

15.00· 14 lbs. 8.00 oz. 

20.00 -.::..- 19 lbs. . 4. 00 oz. 

25.00 24 1bs. 

50.00 48 lbs. 

100.00 96 lbs. 

When certifying packages less than 10 pounds and not 

listed on the table do not apply a reasonable shortage 

limit. Lot will fail to meet marked or specified net 

weight only if sample units average below marked or 

specified net weight. 

Certifying marked or specified net weight for 

containers over 10 pounds which are not specifically 

listed in Table I, no individual sample container may 

be more than 4 percent below the marked or specified 

net weight. 

Example: For a lot with containers marked 38 lbs., no 

individual sample may weigh less than 36-1/2 lbs. 

Added, October 1990, HU-108-6(b) 
  

Added, October 1990, HU-l08-6(c) 

Page sse, Para. 44Sc, General, Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-sseCERTIFYING WEIGHT OF PRODUCTS IN BULK BINS 

current instructions provide that we report only net weight, and 

not gross weight. However, bulk bins are exempt from the net 

weight only restriction, and therefore gross weight may be 

reported only for products in bulk bins. 

(448c) 

Scales must be prechecked for accuracy using an approved standard 

test weight prior to a weight inspection. However, our check 

weights are insufficient for checking the accuracy of scales 

capable of weighing bulk bins. Therefore, we will consider the 

applicant's scales prechecked if local weights and measures 

officials (State, county, or city -.with equipment capable of 

checking such scales) check the scales and verify the accuracy of 

them immediately prior to weighing in the presence of the 

inspector. Scales with seals previously applied by weights and 

measures bureaus under local laws will not be considered 

"prechecked for accuracy." 

All bins of the lot, load, or portion of lot remaining, 

regardless of the lot size, will be ·weighed, and the range and 

average gross weight shall be reported under the pack heading. 

Do not attempt to determine a tare weight by weighing a few empty 

bins, because the weights of such bins vary too much for accurate 

certification. 

As under current instructions, the notesheet will show the type 

of scale, the graduations of the scale, and the owner of the 

scale. • 

If the foregoing procedures are not possible, inspectors may, at 

applicant's request and expense, accompany the load to a 

CERTIFIED PUBLIC SCALE and witness and record the scale readings 

on our certificate for the gross weight of the load andjor the 

empty weight of the truck or trailer. 

Exceptions to the above may be granted by the Washington, DC 

office on a case by case basis. ** ** 

- 89 -

Pack a "'actor of Condition. When certificates are restricted to ( IJ~q) 

reporting condition only at the applicant's request, &~is frequently 

done on apples and pears in stora~, the tightness of oack is a factor 

of condition and should be reported under the "Pack" headin~. lvranDinrs 

and arrangement are not sub,1 ect to chan~ and should not be reDorted in 

such instances. 

SIZE 

Under this heading, depending on the product, are covered -( 1) ( 450) 

diameter and length, (2) wei$t, (3) unifonnity of size, (II) reference 

to counts being as marked, (5) bunching. See the Products Handbooks or 

other instructions re~ding size of specific products. 

Range of Size. If miniinum and maximum sizes for the products are (IJ')l) 

set by standards, or are specified by the applicant in connection with 

the standard, then the diameter, length, wei$t, etc. rrust be stated 

with reference to tolerances for these standards. If the size statement 

is not on the basis of a standard or a specified size, the occasional 

specimen belCM or .above a general m:1nirm.nn or maximum range should be 

iE!flored. For exa!T{lle, if ol)ly a single specimen in a sample is found to 

be 2-3/4 inches, and none of the remainder above 2-J:/2 inches, mention 

of 2-3(4 inches as the maximum gives a wrong impression, 2-1/2 bein~ the 

more correct for the purpose of the certificate. 

"Mostly." When stating ran~ of size, unless this range is compara-(1152) 

tively narrow or the distribution of sizes is not fairly urtiform, it may 

b~ desirable also to show the size of most or the sp,ecimens, in order to 

give the general irrpression created by the lot. As 12 to 3-1/2 inches diatreter, mostly 2 to 2-3/4 inches. 11 In showing a "mstly", be sure it represents well over 55% of the lot. If the size is fair],y uniform, no "mostly" 

• need be stated. 

Reporting Undersize Within or Well Within Tolerance. It will be sat- (4'53) 

isfactory to use the term "undersize within" or 11 undersize well within" 

tolerance, or "undersize averages within the tolerance," except where it 

will be necessary to determine the percentage of U. S. ~o. 1 Quality, or 

where a specific request is made to show the exact percenta~ under a 

minimum mark or size. 

In a product where size is a factor in determining grade, such as in ( 454) 

the case of minilri.Jm size ·of potatoes, cnions, etc., careful percentages 

should be determined, being sure to see representative samples of the lot. 

'!he same policy applies to a specified maxiinum size. 
- 90 -

(l155) In cases where size is not a definite factor.of f17'ade, the >;eneral 

overall size ranr,e should be shown and usually stat in~ a "mostly size." 

( 1156) The method of reporting size on some soecial oroducts re<1uires 

separate instructions, and these will he found in th~ various Products 

l<andbooks. 

( ~'17) Reoorting Counts or Packs. The size <'r count of citrus fruits, boxed 

annles, boxed rears, tormtoes in lup;s, ce ler:v in qrates; etc. , should be 

sho1om tmder the "Products" heading, if they are rmrked on the container. 

If these are not as marked, this fact should be shown under the "Size" 

heading, describin!!; the condition found, ~nerally bv stating if possible 

the percentage which is mismarked, and how much it varies from the given 

size·. If the counts or packs conform to marks, this fact need not tie 

shown when certifying tier packed products. However, in the case of such 

products as celery and cauliflower, which ma_y be easily mtsc0unted because 

of irre~~;Ular nlacing, it is well to state that counts are a'l marked. This 

. should be done under the "Size" heading. Uniformity qr lack or uniformity 

of sizing should be reported under this heading when the product is si?.ed 

to con .form with this terminology. Refer to the standards .and the commodity handbooks. (See PACA Rulinv,s on off-count, par.116- 119). 

( !458) Bunching. -Bunches are irregular, fairly uniform, or uniform (rarely 

the latter) in size. It often is necessary to state the ran~ in number 

of bunches found to the crate. If the product is a root crop, the ranP-;e 

in nwroer of specimens in the bunch and a ''mostly," if any, should be 

reflorted. Reference to Star:~dard Bunches sho,Uld be rmde under the "Grade" 

heading, but the facts will be g1 ven under "Size. " 

( !t')9) Standard Pack, Standard Bunching, etc. If the gr-ade statement is to 

include standard pack of citrus fruits, lettuce, olums or prunes, style 

of pack for· tormtoes, or standard bunches of beets, carrots, radishes, 

turnips, etc., the details will. he covered under the "Size" and "Pack" 

headin~. The actual. certification will apnear under the "Grade." Thus: 

Lettuce - "U. S. No. 1, Standard Pack.'' 'l'ormtoes - "U. S. No. 1, U. S. 

Extra Row Pack. 

QUALITY A."'D CONDrriON 

(460) Under the Quality and Condition heading on the certificate should b~ 

a concise description of the product that will ~ve the reader a clear 

and accurate picture of the lot. The good features of a lot should be 

described as weli as the poor ones. · 
- '11 -

"Quality" as used by the Inspection Service refers to the more ( ~fil) 

permanent factors of a product, that are not normally considered sub.j ect 

to chan~ in stora~ or transit, such as cleanness, shape, color of 

apoles, solidity of lettuce and cabba~, ~wth cracks and second growth 

of potatoes, etc. -

"Condition refers to the factors of a product that are suh,j ect to ( lifi~-) 

development, advancement or other change in transit and stora~, such as 

decay, breakdown, stap;es of ripeness of fruU, yellowing of leaves of 

leaf ve~tables, color of tomatoes, ti~tness of pack, etc. 

Grade and Standard Defined: A "grade" :t.s a set of specifications ( ~63) 

of quality and condition for a product which has been promul~ated for 

use under a specific name, such as U. S. No. 1. 

A "standard" includes the one or more. J:7'C!des anplying to the coin- (~fi4) 

modity and also other specifications in addition to quality and condition 

such as those covering size, pack, markin~, etc. and the definitions of 

the ternJS used in the .e;rades. -por example: The standards for fresh tomatoes are oublished under a title "United States Standards for Tomatoes" 

which includes four grades plus "Size Requirements", "Application of tolerances" 1 Style of Packs", "Irree;ular Pack", ''Color Classification''. and 

"Definitl.ons". 

Descriptive TernJS. E&ch g;rade specifies the factors that are ')er- (1165) 

tinent to the commodity such as cleanness, color, maturity, shape or 

form, smoothness, firmness, rioeness, etc. These should be described in ~neral terms,-using the descriptive terminolo~ that is supplied and 

defined in the grades and/or handbooks, unless they fall below the ret'juirements of the g;rades, in which case they must be scored a'5 P7'iiide 

defects. In a few comm:>dities factors that are not specifically men- · 

tioned in the grades or have no grade reC'Iuirements also affect the rrarket 

value of ohe lot and should be described. An examole is blushed color 

in the u. s. "'o. 1 r,;rade for peaches. 'fue use of ternJS such as ,, good. 

fair, poor or sound" a.r1d others which g;enerally express only individual 

opinion are excluded fran use on certificates unless they have been 

officially defined. 

Descri~tions should be made as accurate and brief as practical and (~6fi) 

should usually be made by usinp; complementary general terms such as: 

''mostly well, some fairly well shaped." Insoectors should avoid using 

more indefinite descriptions, such as: "fairly well to well, mostly 

well shaped." or ''hard to firm rine, mostl,y firm". Because as accurate 

information as possible is imoor'"-<J1t. to shinpers in connection with the~.r 

sabs, shlppin11; and stora~ prop;rmns, Shi)?oing point inspectors should 

use the more nreci.:!e <iescriotive terminology, thus: "M:>stly_ f1rm, some 

hard, few firm ripe 
- 92-

(467) Reporting Quality and Condition Factors Which Do Not Affect 

Grade. In ~neral, the inspector should avoid mentioning factors that are 

not serious enouet~ to affect gmde, without a specific request, with such 

exceptions as potatoes sold as seed stock where it is desirable to show 

net necrosis, rhizoctonia and scab, even though not serious enouet~ to 

affect grade, but they may be shown at specific request of appli.cant 

fv.1.lowed under a ".Remarks" heading by statement to this effect. 

( 468) Color. The ccrnrrercial irrportance of color varies widely with 

the different products. In most of the dessert fruits it is a matter of 

prime importance, arid it is almost equally so in many of the green VP.<J;etable~. In root crops it is Usually.secondary to some other factors. 

( 469) The amount of color is ver-y irrt>ortant in the dessert fruits. 

It is generally reported in f!"actions or percentages of the surface area, 

which is covered with color characteristic of the variety. Fruits showing 

nor:rrallY only a blush or partial color !118,Y be described as "well colored," 

"fairly well colored," or "poorly colored" unless beinp; inspected under 

a grade which defines the amount of color in other terms. In this case 

description of the color should be made to conform to the wordinp; of the 

grade, as "tinge of color," or "most apples show from a tinp;e of color to 

run red, mostly 1/4 to 1/2 good red color." 

(470) Brightness of color adds ~atly to the attractiveness of a 

product. In green vegetables it is an index of the freshness of the 

product, while in colored fruits it is second in imt1ortance only to the 

amount of color. 

( 471) The appearance of potatoes and various root crops is p;enerally 

described from the standpoint of freedom from dirt rather than their real 

color. Brightness, dullness, and other factors affectinp; their general 

appearance should be described under the "Quality and Condit1on11 -heading. 

( 472) Remerri:,er the term "green" rra,y refer to color alone and be no 

indication of maturity or ripeness, or it may have the meanin~ of "not 

:nature." Whenever this term is used to ecpress the former meaning, the 

phrase "Green color" should be used. 

( 1173) r1aturity. The term "mature" will be used in the sense of being that 

sta~ or degree of develooment of a fruit or ve~table demanded by 

the use to which it is to be put. 

( 474) · Distinction Between Mature and Ripe. Altho~ the term "rmture" and 

"ripe" both refer to fullness or c~letion of growth, "mature" or 

"maturity" is the more restricted term and means the co~letion of development, while "ripe" or "ripeness" in.:! cates readiness or fitness for use. 

Thus a "rmture" tomato or ·a "mature" apple ma,y attain full development 

without bein~ ripe, that is, without being fit for cons~tian. It should 
- 93 -

be rcn~mbercd that this· term has come to be used differently by vartous 

pfoups, tllUs the bot<>nical and horticultural rrennin~Y> of the term are 

nbt the ,same. A fruit or ve~table nay be fit for use, that is, for 

eatinrJ;, which iR the horticultural rr.eanin~ ot' the word rioe, without bein~ ripe in the botanical sense, that is, without havin~ mature seeds 

fit for ~rmination, or even without bein~ mature in the botanical sense, 

that is, without havin~ full development. Many so-called leafY or 

~en ve~tables, such as lettuce, cabba~; spinach, and many others, such 

as snap beans and cucll!!'bers, are exarrples in .point. Refer to the 

commodity handbooks or your supervisor for instructions when maturity is 

a factor in the inspection. 

Distinction Between Ground Color and Varietal Color. Care (~75) 

JJUs.t be exercised in the case of sorre deciduous fruits, such as apricots 

and certain varieties of pears and plwns, to avoid confusion in describing 

the ground color, which relates on~y to maturity, and the blush or red 

color. In such cases it is best to mention ~d color in connection 

with maturity staterrents, as: "Pears hard, green ground color.n 

Variation of Maturity or Color in Lot Should be Shown. Where ( ~76) 

widely varying conditions of maturity or color are fomd within a given 

lot, a ~neral description should be ~~ven showing the irre~larity and 

range, and the approximate rurount of the stock showing each stru>;e of. 

maturity or color wherever possible, rather than to attempt to report an· 

average condition for the entire lot, as: nin most boxes pears mostly 

hard, many firm, in many boxes mostly firm, sorre firm ripe." 

'Policy in Describing Freshness and Firmness on the Certificate (~77) 

When Specirrens Affected by Soft ·Rot or other Decays or Other Factors 

Lililited by Tolerances. When describing the freshness and firmness of a 

product, soft rot and other dec~ys limited by special tolerances shall 

be considered in determining the qUantitative terms to be used. Due to 

the rapid deterioration of specirrens affected by these inJuries,. they 

shall not be considered fresh or firm as these terms are defined in the 

U. S. Standards or Canmodi ty handbooks , regardless of the area affected. 

Also products should not be described as fresh or firm if other factors 

have caused deterioration beyond that permitted under the definitions 

for nfresh" and· "firm." In describing the freshness or firnness of that 

portion of a lot not affected by soft rot or dec~y limited by special 

tolerances, or advanced deterioration by other disease, general terms 

should be used. 

Handling Aphids as Permanent or Condition Factor. 

Inspectors are often uncertain whether to handle damage and serious damage (477a) 

by aphids as a permanent defects or as a conditicn defect, The instructions 

on the subject vary and in sorre cases conflict. In recent years the situation has been complicated by truck tJ:'8!1Sportation and the greater possibility 

of changes in temperature in transit. At temperatures of fran ~0 to 50 

degrees F ~ the reproduction rate is very slow. For all corrm:xiities, score 

damage or sertous damage by aphids as a permanent defect when they are dead. 

When aphids are alive consider as a condition defect. A specirren with both 

dead and live 'aphicls present shall be considered as a conditicn defect. 
Examples: 

Revised, September 1994, HU-125-8(a) 

Page 94, Para. 478a-479, General, Shipping 

Point Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-94-

1. (Citrus fruit with 5% Blue Mold Rot). Generally Firm. Decay ranges from 

1% to 8%, average 5%, Blue Mold Rot, in early stages. 

2. (Potatoes with 2% soft rot). Generally firm. Soft rot in most sacks 1% to 

5%, in some none, average 2% soft rot. 

3. (Celery with 8% serious damage by pithy branches). Generally fresh. 

Damage by pithy branches ranges from 10 to 15%, average 12%, 

including 8% serious damage. 

(478) Grade Defects. Grade defects may be a result of injury, damage, serious 

damage or very serious damage. These terms are defined in the Standards for 

each commodity where applicable. Individual specimens may not be affected to an 

extent more than that permitted by (1) any one defect; (2) or more than to an 

equivalent extent by a combination of lesser degrees of 2 or more defects; (3) or 

more than by a combination of lesser degrees of different types of the same general 

defect, such as light, slightly rough and rough scars. In other words, to meet grade 

requirements a specimen may not have a poorer appearance or a greater "waste" 

when such appearance or waste is the result of a combination of causes than it 

could from one cause. 

  When a scoring guideline for a defect is specifically defined in a standard, a 

(478a) specimen affected by that defect can only be scored by the definition for injury, 

damage, serious damage or very serious damage that is included in that standard. 

The general definition for injury, damage, serious damage or very serious damage 

may only be used to score defects without specific scoring guidelines defined in the 

standard or to score a specimen with a combination of defects, none of which would 

be scored individually. 

(479) The term "grade defects" should be used to report all blemishes that are 

serious enough to affect the grade on which the product is being inspected. When 

certificates are being issued on grades other than U.S. No. 1, the grade should be 

stated in connection with "grade defects" unless the grade is quoted under the· 

"Products" heading, thus: "Grade defects of U.S. Fancy within tolerance" or "Grade 

defects of U.S. No.2 range from 6 to 20%------ -." ** ** 

(480) In combination grades the statement of defects may be made on the basis of 

the lowest grade in the combination, thus (Combination U.S. No 1 and U.S. No. 2). 

"Defects of U.S. No.2 within tolerance," or on the basis of the combination grade, 

thus: "Defects of U.S. Combination within tolerance." 
  

Revised, September 1994, HU-125-S(b) 

Page 95, Para. 482, General, Shipping 

Point Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-95-

In commercial grades "defects of U.S. Commercial within tolerance" should (481) 

be reported when the lot meets grade requirements. 

' 

Where (482) there is a grade for the product, the expression "grade defect" will in 

most cases be sufficient to describe the degree of injury. However in the grades for 

some products and under some circumstances, it is desirable or necessary to show 

the degree of injury, such as when a separate tolerance for serious damage is 

included in an over-all tolerance or it is necessary to show compliance with other 

limitations. The terms "damage" and "serious damage" should be used to describe 

the degree of injury by defects when they can be classed under the definitions of 

these terms in the grades. ** ** 

Example: (Peaches) Grade defects 5 to 15%, average 12%, mostly damage 

by bruises including 8% serious damage and 1% decay. 

When there is no established grade for the product, the extent of injury (483) 

should be accurately described so that the reader may get a clear picture of the 

product, thus: (Casabas) Mature, firm and well formed. Average 4% of melons 

show hail scars affecting aggregate areas 2 to 3 inches in diameter. 

In noting defects, minor blemishes, which are of no commercial importance, (484) 

should be ignored. The individual specimens should not be scored on the close 

basis employed in judging prize products. When grade is involved, only such 

defects as are excluded from the grade in question should be scored. For instance, 

in scoring C grade apples, U.S. Utility grade apples, U.S. No.2 grade potatoes, etc., 

practically all specimens may show certain blemishes which are permissible in the 

grade, but these should no be reported as their presence is the cause of the stock 

being in such grade. Were it not for these, the stock would be classed under a 

higher grade. 

General Policy in Describing Defects and Irregular Conditions. One of the ( 485) 

chief purposes of our certificates is to show the commercial possibilities of the 

product being certified. In this connection it is important that all defects which are 

serious enough to affect the grade being used should be noted and described in 

such a manner that interested parties can form a clear opinion regarding the lot. 

When no grade defects are present, it is equally desirable that this circumstance be 

noted. The statement "practically no defects" or "practically none" may be used 

when less than 1% defects or undersize are found, except in the case of soft rot and 

decay. 
(486) 

(487) 

(488) 

-~ 

(489) 

  

Revised, May 1992, HU-114-6(c) 

Page 96, Para. 486 - 489, General 

Shipping Point Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-96-

When Quality or Condition Differs According to Brands, 

sizes, variety, PLI, or Grade Marks. Whenever there is a marked 

difference found in quality, condition or size that definitely 

can be associated with certain types of packages, brands, sizes, 

varieties, PLI marks or grade marks, then the certificate and 

notesheet must report such differences as separate lots. 

No firm rule can be established on the amount of 

irregularity required before such lots must be reported 

separately. However, when some lots would fail to grade and 

others would pass, even on the basis of a condition only 

inspection, then those lots definitely must be reported 

separately. On lots that fail, wide differences in total defects 

or a single defect such as decay would justify reporting as 

separate lots. Any time an inspector feels that reporting as 

separate lots would provide a clearer picture of the findings, 

then it is always permissible to report as separate lots. 

. Whenever such lots are to be reported as separate lots, 

sufficient samples must be examined to clearly establish that 

there is a marked and consistent difference that can be 

associated with the package markings. If the lots were initially 

sampled as one lot, it may be necessary to take additional 

samples from one or more of the lots when a marked difference.in 

quality, condition or size is discovered.· 

Not Permissible to Average In-Grade Lots with out-of-Grade 

Lots. Anytime the applicant requests that such lots be reported 

a!s separate lots, they shall be reported as separate lots; 

however, the lots may not be combined, even at the applicant's 

request, if there is a marked difference in quality, condition or 

size. It is not permissible to combine readily identifiable 

in-grade or properly sized lots with identifiable out-of-grade or 

off-size lots in order to cause the combined lot to either fail 

or pass. For example: 

I 

A shipper requests an inspection on a load of apples marked 

U.S. Extra Fancy, sizes 88, 100, and 113. The 88s fail to 

grade account grade defects, but no sample exceeds the 

container tolerance, and, combined with the other sizes, the 

entire load would pass. The applicant requests that the 

lots be combined so that the load can be shipped as meeting 

the grade marked. However this is not permissible as it 

could result in the shipment of out-of-grade, misbranded· 

merchandise, and other parties having a financial interest 

in the load could be misled by our certification. The 88s 

must be certified as "failing to grade u.s. Extra Fancy." 

The 100s and 113s shall be certified as 

U.S. Extra Fancy. ** ** 
Revised, July 1993, HU-119-8-(a) 

Page 97, Para. 491-493, General Shipping Point 

Inspection Instructions, January 1966 

-97-

Other markings such as growers' marks, lot numbers, or packing house code ( 490) 

numbers should be noted next to the samples on the notesheet, but no attempt should be 

made to certify as separate lots unless specifically requested to do so by the applicant (see 

paragraphs 214 and 215). 

*"*" Tolerances. With the exception of grades for certain raw products for processing, 

all grades provide tolerances for defects. The standards contain two types of tolerances: 

(a) Lot Tolerances; and, (b) Container Tolerances. 

(a) Lot Tolerances. These are part of each grade and specuy the average 

percentage of defects permitted in the grade. This is generally 1 O"(o, 8%, 6% or 5% 

depending on the commodity and usually includes tolerances for decay of 1 or 2% and in 

some grades includes a tolerance for serious damage, On some commodities, additional 

separate tolerances are provided for size and special factors suc4 as color of prunes. 

(491). 

(492) 

(b) Container or Package Tolerances. The tolerances for the standards are on a (493) 

container basis. Most standards specify that individual packages or samples may vary 

from the specified lot tolerances for defects and off-size by not more than 1 ~ times a 

tolerance of 10% or more and not over double a tolerance ofless than 10%. The 

standards for some commodities have variations from this general policy, especially in 

reference to small packages and in consumer grades. The inspector should carefully check 

the standards on which they are working for provisions in this respect. They will be found 

under headings such as • Application of Tolerances," or "Introduction. • Many of the older 

standards do not contain specific instructions as to the application of tolerances. In such 

instances individual containers shall have no limitations on the. percentage of defects or 

off-size. If the average for the lot or a particular tolerance is not exceeded, the lot will 

grade. **** 

Revised, May 1992, HU-114-6(d) 
- 98-

( 4911) One Def'ect:tve Soec:!.rnen Allowed 1n a Packa=. f4a."1.V standards co:1tain 

a pi'Ov:ision that one <;l.erective specimen rn::w be allaA"ed :tn eac.'1 package re~less of' the percentae;e involved, provided the .lot meets the avel:'af';e 

tolerance. 'Ihis r.as been interpreted as mean111Q; one for each seoarate 

tolerance such as !"or size, external r,;rade def"ects, and when appllC'ilile, 

L~ternal def"ects. 

( 1!95) Reportino; ~f"ects Within Tolerance. .When a lot is within a grnde.•s 

tolerance, the insoector s~ ·not report the def"ects in percentae;es 

unless it is requested by the. applicant or he 1s instru.cted to do so, for . 

····sane special reason, by W..S supervisor. Genera.lly one of the. three stat:e-

=ts defined belCM sh<;JUl.d be used: 

( ll97) 

( lt9.8) 

( lt99) 

1. "amde Defects Within Tole~ce"~· ·'This statement is 

to be made when the averas;e of defects does not exceed 

the tolerance and the defects 1n any e<:x1tainer do not 

exceed the grade tol.erailce. 

2. "Grade Defects Average Within Tolerance:" This state- · 

nent 1s to be nade \'~hen the average of defects does not 

exceed the -'7'3de tolerance apd no sanple exceeds tlie 

:container tolerance, and the 11.Ullber of containers Which. 

exceed the trade tolerance .is within cO'ltainer l1m1ta:-

ti<Xl!i •. It aJ.so applies, regardless of the range, when 

there i.s no· container to~rance, such as for small 

pack:ages 1n sane standards. 

3. "Grade DefeCts Well Within TOlerance":. This statement 

means that no ctntainer may exceed the '7'<ide toleranee 

for ·total defects, or :for serious defects, decay or 

any other :factor for which a specific tolerance 1s provided, and that the ave!"<U;e percentage of each such 1

• 

de!'ect in the l.ot may not exceed one-half' of the respective tolerance. 

. When . DPSC and s1m1l.ar purchase orders specif'y ''well 

within," this should be ·certified 1n the grade de!'ects 

statenent but not under the f'Grade" bead1n11;. The "Grade" be~ couJ..d state thus: "U. S~ No. 1 - Meets purchase 

order spec1!':1.cat1ons;" an appropriate variation. may be 

used. 

• 
- 99 -

"Grade Defects Each Lot Within 'l'olP.ra'lce." This is the accente'l ( "/ln) 

sLtterrent when there are two or more varieties or n:rarle lots or t\oJO or 

more types of packages and when all are up to g;rade''. When in one lot, or 

some lots, the ~ade defects are well within tolerance and in another, or 

others; they are sirq:>ly within tolemnce, then show for all lots sirrnlv: 

"Gra<'e jefects .. ithin tolerance." · · 

Reporting Defects Exceeding Tolerances. If a lot does not meet (S01) 

the requirements of a specified grade, the ran~ and avera~e of defects 

that put the lot out of r-;rade must be reported rer;ardless of the number 

and size of sarrples ·examined or of how narrow the ranP-;e my be, unless 

the range is narrow and the averaP-;e appears inconsistent ~rith the r'l!lge, 

suc]1 as "fr>cm 210: to 23%, averaP;e ?.f'l%." In such insta'lces it will be 

saUsfactory to state, for exarrple: "Defects occur uniformly in samnles, 

average 20%. This policy apolies when the lot is renort.ed as meetin~ a 

percentage of v;rade quality as well as when failing to meet a snecif'ted 

~ade. 

\Vhen the percentar;e of U. S. No. 1 guality is to be certified, t'Je ("·"~) 

per:.)entap;e of defects and off-size which are counted a~T,ainst the P:rade, 

rrust be reoort.ed on the certificate under the nroner headinp;s. In sucfJ · 

cases, do not use such staterrents as "undersize within tolerance" or 

"1:!7'ade defects within tolerMce, but show the exact nercentaq;e. W'Jen a 

lot is found to be· in excess of tolerances, the nr:tncipal defects md 

condition defects should be stated as oqrt of the Grade defects statement, thus: 8 to 15% average 12% defects, mostly r.usset Md dirt. 

Counting Defective Soecimens More ~a'l Once. In scoring and in (r.03) 

calculatin~ the percentaP-;e of defective stock generally ·count but once ?. 

specimen which shows two defects, either classifyin~ the under ~de 

specirrer..; accordinrz; to the ~des into which thev fall or classi t'vin»; 

them with the defects which most seriously affect the l'!;!'ade or with which 

they will total more than the tolerance; For example, if 6% of a lot of 

ootatoes are d~d by external defects and 1% darnged bv both external ~'ld internal defects, this 1% must be counted with the external defects, 

for it is evident that the lot contains 7% external defect::; which is more th~ the tolerance. The fact that the lot is out of grade cannot be 

char.ged by scoring the 1% which shows both external ann internal defects 

with the latter. 
Revised August 29, 1966 - BN 27-1 

- 100 -

(5011) When size is Pil.I't of the B;I'ade, undersize specimens that are defective 

('i05) 

(506) 

(507) 

(508) 

should be scored twice, first for under-:• ::;e, and second for ~ade defects 

for the reason that siz& and grade defects have senarate tolerances in the ~des. r~nerally the percent~ of undersi7.e specimens that are defective 

will be ne~lip;:!.ble and will make no difference in the grade certification. 

Under ordinary conditions when the percenta~ of undersize ~necimens that 

are also defective amounts to 1% or more, the usual size statement should 

be made, l',;iving; the total undersize, fncludinP.: those specimens that are 

also defective. No mention of defects should be made under the· "Size" 

headinp;. However, this information should be renorted under the "Quality 

and Condition" headinl',;, thus: "Ran~ from 5 to 2'5~, avera~ 

15% defects, mostly surface scab, cuts and second ~wth, includin~ 2% 

also reported above as undersize." Defective oversi:o:e soecimens should be . treated the same way as undersize soecimens that are.also ~de defects. 

Reporting Defects of Corrnercial and Combination Grades. 't'o nromote 

uniformity between shinpin~ point and terminal market inspections and to 

avoid conflictinp;. percenta.q;es of defects, it will be the policy to report 

"defects within tolerances" when the product meets the grade specifications of a Commercial grade. If a lot of either Commercial or Combination 

grade fails to meet the ~ade requirements, naturally it will be necessary 

to show the percent~ ·of defects the same as when a lot fails to meet 

the No. 1 gi'ade. 

Reporting the Hi@er Grade in Corrbination Grades. In case of Combination grades which ~uire a percent~ of a higher grade, the percentage of the higher grade need not· be shown unless it is requested by 

the applicant. When the applicant requests the percent~ of.the higher 

grade be reported as a description of ouality but not qualifYinp; the 

Grade, it may be reported under this headin;z;, 

Dirt on Washed and Unwashed Root Products. The same interpretation 

of "ciamage by dirt" should be applied to potatoes, carrots, parsnips and 

other root crops when they have been washed as when they have not been 

washed. The term "washed" does not necessarily mean clean. 

Scoring Loose Dirt 1n Containers of Root Crops. Inspectors are often 

coofronted with the problem of reporting large amounts of loose dirt in 

cootainers of potatoes, carrots and other root crops. The manner in 

which this should be handled depends somewhat on the circumstances. 

• 
- HllIn the case of root crops bein~ delivered to processin~ plants, it ()09) 

is quite general nractice in some areas .to consider loose dirt in containers as tare weight. H'or example, in a container of carrots with a 

net wei~t of 50 pounds includin~ 2 pounds of loose dirt, the basis for calculatin~ the percenta~ of defects of the roots would be 48 lbs. and 

the 2 pounds of .dirt would be considered tare wei~t and deducted from 

the total net weight of the container. The processor would settle fo~ 

the concainer of carrots on. the basis of 118 nounds delivered. This 

method h~q proven satisfactory. 

Under circumstances where there is no agreement between buyer or (510) 

seller on the method of handlin~ loose dirt, the above method is not 

applicable. However, if an applicant for inspection requests it, the 

amount of loose dirt rna_y be determined in sample containers and reported 

under Remarks. For exarnple: · "Rang;in~ from 1/2 pound to 4 pounds, 

average 2 oound loose dirt in sacks. Amount of loose dirt in sacks reported at applicant's reQuest." 

Freezing Injury. Freezin~ and freezin~ in,jur:y are seldom found (5ll) 

when inspecting most co~odities at shipping point. However, such commodities as potatoes and onions shipped from winter stor~e and fruit from 

cold s tora~ are sometimes frozen or show freezinp; in,j ur:y. 

A distinction should be made between stock that E frozen and that (512) 

which shows freezing in,jury. When the product is still in a frozen condition, with ice crystals present in the tissues, the term "frozen" is 

the proper designation and specimens so affected should be scored against 

the tolerance for soft rot, decay or hreakdown. It is not necessary to 

state "ice crystals present." 

When the ·product is not in a frozen condition at the time of inspec- (513) 

tion but it shows the typical conditions that indicate it has been frozen, 

such ·as shriveling, flabbiness, soft and leaking or internal discoloration, 

the term "freezing in,jury" should be used.. Such specimens should be 

described and scored on the basis of "damage" as instructed in the ~ades 

and cornrrndity handbooks. Whenever the term "freezing in,jury" is used it 

should be followed by a description of the in,j ury, such as: "soft, wet 

and flabby," etc. 

Decay. Decay is a deterioration or.decline of the plant tissues in- (514) volvim~ decorrpostion which is induced by fun~, bacteria and similar 

organisms, and which is of a corrplete and progressive nature. Care should 

be taken to avoid confusing dead or watersoaked tissues with decay as 

they are often quite similar in appearance. Usually d~cayed tissue will 

disintegrate when rubbed between the fingers while bruised or watersoaked 

tissue will ci'\.llrl) le but will retain a certain amount of body or texture 

or will roll up into a small particle or a ball. 
(515) 

(516) 

(517) 

( 518) 

( 519) 

(5:?0) 

- 102-

While it is not alw~ys possible to determine what c~used the develooment of decay, this should be done if possible, if the tolerance is exceeded. Examples are Blue Mold Rot following punctures or Slimy Soft 

Rot following lenticel injury. 

Reoort Soft Rot Separately. If the restrictive tolerance for 

decay in the p;rades is for soft rot, such as is the car.e in the p Jtato 

grades; then the words "soft rot" should be used to report it on the certificate so that it will not be confused with the dry or moist types of 

decay that are scored under the definitions of damage a~nst the tolerance 

for other defects. 

Renorting Percentages of Decay. When the tolerance for decay is 

1% and the scoring less than 1/2%, the statement should be "less than 1/2 

of 1%." If the scorinil; shows 1/2% or a fraction between 1/2% and 1%, the 

statement should be "less than l%'1except that on commodities such as P.;rapes 

and citrus, where the tolerance is 0. 5%, decay !')hould be renorted as "1/2 

Of 1%, II AmountS between 1% and l. 49% ShOUld h~ reported as 1% and from 

1.50 to 2.49% should be reported as 2%, etc. Tl'le expression "less than 2% 

dec~y" should not be used even thoi.l$ the ll;l'ade involved may have a tolerance of 2% for decay or soft rot. 

When dec~y is found irree;ularly in containers, this should be · 

indicated by renorting the variations in ~;,eneral terrre or by identifying; 

marks. ExaJ!llles: 

l. In most boxes no dec~y, in some 11 to 12%, averap;e 2% decay. 

2. In most boxes less than l/2 of 1% to l% deca,y, in Hvland 

Kid mark, manifested as 100" boxes, 3 to 10%, avera11;e ll'l 

decay. 

When no sample exceeds the decay tolera~ce, it is permissible to 

report the containers showinR; decay and those showing no decay b rrene!'il.l 

terrre 'tlithout statim;; an averaR;e. Example of lettuce in cartons: '"1ost 

cartons no decay, sore cartons 2% dec~y." 

Determinin;; Percentag;es of Decay ll'hen Snecimens are Excessively 

Deteriorated. Frequently, when inspectin~ products on the basis of 

·weight such as potatoes and onions, lots are encountered that have been 

in storage for relatively lon~ periods. Such lots may contain material 

amo~~ts of decayed specimens that are so completely deteriorated that 
- 103 -

they have lost practically all or mc.;t of their oriP.;inal we~ 1t. Usin11; 

the. actual wei~t of these badly deteriorated specimens to determine the 

oercentaf1;e of decay present woulJ obviously give inaccurate results. In 

such cases the inspector should substitute, for wei~infl; purposes, sound 

specimens that are approximate~y the ori~~nal size of the deteriorated 

specimens. If this is impossible, the inspector should estimate the. 

decay. When the product is freshly sorted or packed, thi:> policy si'Jnld 

not be followed but the actuCil decayed specimens shr 1ld be weighed. 

Latent Defects. Sometimes cases arise where the L,spector knows (521) 

that a oroduct is affected.by some physiological or patholoil;ical condition 

which, though it may not be visible and cannot be suitably reoorted 

under any of the printed headin~ on the certificate, ~Y cause serious 

deterioration in t.·ansit or storage. If instructions coverin~ such 

latent defects are not given L, the appropriate products handbook,. the 

inspector should consuJ.t the suoervisin~~; inspector or the inspector i'nmediately in charf!;e. Records of such defects should always be kemt on the 

inspector's notes even thoui#J not mentioned on the certificate. Often 

such defects, while of li~tle importance as affectin~ anpearance or 

waste, can be·scored on the basis of dama~ to shionin~ or edible qualitv. 

Sxa.rrples are tonatoes that have been exposed to low ternperntures and ccxn-

:no:Jities that have been harvested Jrom fields known to have been badly 

.inhsted ldt'1 disease that usual~y causes the product to decay, such as 

'Late i1lie;!'lt of potatoes and tomatoes and Purnle Blotch of onion;. 

11RADE 

Under the "Grade" heading a statement must be made of the facts de- ( 522) 

termined by the inspection in terms of the TJ. S. Grades, state ~ades or 

!)ther ~pecif1.cations, unless the certificate is.restricted to reportinP-; 

sr;e·:1 ~"ic fact ora, such as condition, or unless no 11;rade or specification 

is established for the commodity. · 

:\ definite statement must be made to cover each lot that has been ( "i.?3) 

ident.ified or described in the preceding portions of the certificate. 

~1is statement rm,y be a fl;rade name such as "U. S. No. l;" ?.. qualified 

"::''ide such as ''U. S,' No. 1, 2 inches minimum" or "U. S. No. 1 Green;" 
(524) 

(525) 

(526) 

Revised JUne 16, l97J Bll-44-l- (a) 

- 104 -

Supplemental Grade State~~ents, A lot may a>eet the requirements or 

more than one grade and/or specification or standard, including export 

statements or marketing agreement and purcha~e rrogram re .• uirements, If 

requested by the applicant, or required by official instructions, the 

fact or the additional compliance should be reported under "Grade," 

Examples: 

1, Washington Fancy, also meets requirements or U, s. No, 1. 

Meets U, S, Condition Standards ror Export. Apples covered 

by this certificate meet the requirements or the Export 

Apple and Pear Act, Meets Canadian Import Requirements. 

2. Beauty Plums: U. s. No. 1; meet quality requirements of 

Marketing Order 88, 

Santa Rosa Plums: Pails to grade U. s. No. 1 and to meet 

quality requirements or Marketing Order 88 account .grade 

detects, 

}. u. s. No, 1 - Standard Pack, 

4. u. S. No, 1 but fails to meet requirements or Blue Sure-Gooi 

Brand account grade defects, 

Grade on Restricted Certificates. When the inspection and certificate 

is restrict.ed to specific factors such as size and condition, no grade 

statement can be made as all ractors affecting the grade have not been 

determined. In such circumstances, the "Grade" heading should be followed 

by x xs. Such statements as "Lot meets condition requirelllents of grade" 

are not' to be made on certificates restricted to condition, 

When Ko Established Grade. I, no grades have been establ1ohed for 

a product, it should be described under the pr< ~eding hea'dings and "no 

Established Grade" typed foll·owing the "Grade" heading on the certificate. 

(526-a) • Re_porting Grade on DPSC In.spections, DPSC officlals have authorized • 

• the use ot brie·t grade statements on certificates issued to that Agency. • 

• The identification rumber or the applicable Federal Specification shall • 

• be included in the .;rade statement on original inspections covering car • 

• and truck lots inter.ded for d<'liVJry to DPSC. This number is included • 

• a~ part of the spec1ficat1o•~ on the purchase order and is availablP to • 

• the inspectors, The following JO.IIIJlles are satisfactory: * 

• Celery: "Ped. :Jpec. HHH·C-19ld, Ko. 1 tf. • 

• Lettuce: .. "Fed, Spec •. HHH-L-226d, No. 1". • 

• Pntatocc: "Fed. Spec, HHH-P-622a, No. 1, Size A, ? inches minimum" • • 

• Lettuce: us~:;; Fed. Spec . HHH-L·226d·, Ko. 1". I 

• All certi rica t<- rcport1r.g 1. percentage of Ko, l quality must show • • the rn~ and avera~~ or defects in the body or the certificate. • 

• 
- HJ'i -

Certification of Shinner's Brand Grades. Some shipners of annles, ('i27) 

pears, notatoes and a rew other products have re~~istered brands and have 

issued printed snecifications for them. When nronerlv re,o;istered with 

state authorities, they are not rer,uired to st=· the piickar<,es with state 

or "'ederal a;rades unless an Export ~<'orm Certificate is desired. In most 

ca-;es these !:'':'and sneci:Lications correspond closely to certai" state or 

·Federal ~ades, but mav have additional or hi~er re~uirements. v~en 

renuests are received for the certification of shippers' brand ~ades, it 

will be satisfactory to certify on the basis of these brands, providin~ 

the inspector has been furnished a cony of the brand specifications. If 

the snecification requires the product to meet a state or Federal "7'ade 

wlth additional requirements above this r;rade, both ~des should be 

mentioned. Thus: "Grades U. S. "Jo. 1 and meets Blue Banner Brand snecifications" or "Grades Washington Extra Fancy and meets Tllue BannPr Brand 

snecifications." If the lot is to be certified on an F.xnort Form certificate, the containers must be marked with a state or Federal eli~ble 

o;rade for export ren;ardless of the bra'1d. 

nrades Statements Qualified as to Size. The a;rade statement of some ('i28) 

products is not complete without addin~ a statement as to size. The 

standards for otl-Jer products pennit variations from the minimum and/or · maxiMWn sizes established in the a;rades to be made at the applicant's 

ontion, also size classificiitions are included in some standards. In 

such. instances the grade statement must.indicate the' minimum and/or maximum sizes or size classification on which the inspection was made and be 

supported by the description of size in the "Size" headin~<;. The following 

classes are described: 

1. "Unless Otherwise Specified". This clause appears in the (529) 

size requirements for potatoes, onions; strawberries and m;3.!1J other products (refer to u. S. Standards). In such cases, if a lot does not meet 

the size- S>Jecified in the grade but does meet a smaller size, or if the 

applicant wishes to specify a smaller or lar12;er minimum size, then this 

size rrust be included in the "Grade" statement. Examole: Potatoes: "U. s. 

'·!o. 1, 1-1/2 inches minimum" or ''U. S. No. l, 2-1/~ inches minimum." 

When the size is certified as meetinrs that required in the rr,rade, it is 

not necessary to make a size statement in connection with the p;rade. 
-106-

( 530 ) .2. No Size Limitation Specified in the Grade. If there are 

no size requirements in the grade, the applicant may specify 

minimum andjor maximum sizes on which they wish the inspection to 

be made. In such cases, the specified sizes must qualify the 

grade statement, thus: Eggplant: "U.S. No. 1, 4 inches 

minimum;" Cabbage: "U.s. No. 1, 2 to 6 pounds." 

(531) 3. Small, Medium. Large, Very Large, Extra Large. Two or 

more of these size classifications are found in the standards for 

such products as cabbage, .Bermuda onions and several other 

products (refer to standards). If there is no demand tor the use 

of these classifications because the product is not commonly 

sized.in the district, these general size terms need not be used 

on the certificate and minimum or minimum and maximum diameters, 

length or weight may be used instead. However, if the lot is 

marked on the basis of such size classifications, or if the 

applicant requests it, one or two of these terms, as applicable, 

should be included in the grade statement, thus: "Grade: u.s. 

No. 1, small to Medium." 

(532) Specific commodity size classifications such as size A and 

Size B of potatoes and Boilers of onions should. be reported in 

connection with the grade if requested by the applicant or 

reporting them is a general practice in the area, providing the 

1ot meets the specification. 

(533) 4. Size Ma:r;ks Required '?n Con~ainers by standards. The 

grades for certal.n products, l.nclUdlng apples, pears and peaches, 

(refer to standards) do not contain size specifications but the 

standa'rds for these products require the size to be marked on the 

container. Size specifications are listed separately in the size 

standards for these products. The specified size or sizes of 

such products, when marked or requested by applicant, should be 

included under the "Grade" heading as well as being described 

under ''Size:'' thus (Apples): "Grade u.s. No. 1, 2-1/4 inch 

minimum" or "2-1/2 inches and up as marked." l'lhen the size is 

not marked on the container as in bulk fruit, and the applicant 

does not specify size, it need not be mentioned in connection 

with the grade, but must be described under the "Size" heading. 

(534) Special Grade Designations. Descriptive words, such as 

"Early"" of apples, "Green" .of celery, "Russet" of citrus fruit, 

"Green" of asparagus, "Juice," "Table" or "Sawdust Pack" of 

gr;;~pes, "Red" or "Mixed" of sweet peppers, etc., are as much a 

part of the grade name as the usual No. 1 or Fancy and must 

never be· omitted where they apply. Examples: U, s. No.1 Mixed 

Peppers or U.S. No. 1 Green Cabbage. In stating a percentage of 

U.S. No. 1 quality, these designations should be shown as part of 

the grade statement, thus: "85% u.s. No. 1 quality Green, 2 

pounds minimum," or 11 87% u.s. No. 1 quality Green, clipped to 16 

inches." 

• 
- 107 -

\'ihen the grade is a state grade, the 

included as part of the grade. Examples: 

Suner Spud Grade, Idru1o Utility. 

na~ of the state must be 

Washington Extra "'ancy, Maine 

Unclassified is not a grade (except in Juice Graoes). The term 

should not be preceded by a U. S. or a State desi~ation. 

(535) 

It is not necessary to use the word "consumer" ir1 certifying ~ade (537) 

under the· consumer· standards, although if the applicant requests it there 

is no ob,jection to showing "U. S. Consumer Grade A" (or B). Usually 

only when instructed to do so by the applicant or the oacka12;es are marked 

wit.h a consumer grade. Becauae a p1•oduct is packed in a ·consumer size 

packa12;e does not mean the consumer P,rade must be used; On the other hand, 

the consumer fg:'ades may be used in certi f'ying products packed in wholesale containers if requested to do so by the applicant. 

Certiryin~ Standard Pack, Standard Bunchin~, etc. in ~rade Staterrent.(S38) 

The standards for several commodities include optional specifications for 

Standard Pack or Standard Bunches (refer to sta'ldards). If the aoplicant 

re0uests that the inspection be made on the b~sis of these additional 

ontional requirements to the ~ade and compliance with the ::--·quire~nts 

is found, this should he stated in connection with the "Grade" statellP.nt, 

thus: U. s. No. 1, Standard Pack: U. S. No. 1, U. S. Extra '1ow Pack 

(Tomatoes): U. S. ~Jo. 1, Standard Bunches. If a lot fails to meet these 

optional requirements, no mention need be made of it on the certificate 

unless requested to do so by the applicant. The details indicatin<l; cornplia'lce with the requirements should be renorted under the Fippronriate headin~ in the body of the certificate. 

Use of "As t<larked". • \'/hen a lot contains more than one r;rade and the ( 5 30) 

~des F.re marked on the containers, the statement "as marked" should 

follow the statement of the p;rades, thus: "U. S. No. 1 or U. S. 'lo. 2 

as marked;" "Washinp;ton Extra Fancy or Fancy or C-grade as marked.'' 

If there is only one grade reported on the certificate, it is not necessary 

to add "as marked". · 

Certiryin~ Combination or Commercial Grades. Excent when the (540) 

applicant requests the percenta~ of the higher grade to be shown, the lot 

or car should be reported by grade name only, as: "Cornb:Lnation U. S. '-lo. 1 

and U. S. Utility" or "Washinp;ton Combination Extra 'H'ancy and. F'ancv" 

(anples); U. S. Co!lT!Ercial (notatoes and onions), etc., without any reference to the ·percenta~ of the higher r;rade. Where cars are sold to 
· ~ontai:1 a 1an;er percenta;se of the hi !!her ~a1e t:.3."1 t'le coooin<>tion 

requires, t'Jis can be s'Jown !:Jy a staterrent: '''J. S. So!'bine.t !::m 11it~ at 

1esst ", !J. s. :1o. 1 m.Iality" or the ?ercent<>P.:e of t':e hiP.;.'ler R!'a1e 

ca""J !:Je. sho:-1:1, thus: "!1. s. Combination \d.th -~ 'J. S. ~lo. 1 aualitv," 

!'he ::1ercentag;e of t!!e hic;.'ler 9'ade shoulj. be ren:Jrte::i under t!!e "':r':l.::le'' headi:-~,;; rat!ler than under the "()uality an:l Con1i ti0:1" 'lee.::lin;z: ·,o~he:1 t~.:s 

oercenta~ is to 1ua1ify the 9'ade state~ent. 

u: S. Combinati0l1 grades require a speci~ied minimum averar;;e percenta;se. of the hil¢1er '?7"3-de with individual sa.np1es to be not rrore than 10% 

below this averar;;e. When a greater avera~ nercenta~ of the hi !'!her ll;!'ade 

is speci ~ied by the applica'1t, the s81!le nolicy as to :ninbu"l !'a'1~ ':l.n!) lies. 

Should the r"'...n<:>;e be more than 10-; less tha'1 the !1ill¢1er averaP.;e, a lo:~er 

avera~ 1'1% above t!1e minimu.'ll ran~ mav be reoorted, or the actual averap;e 

1ualified b:v t'1e !TlaJC:i.'llUlll and min:L'TlU'll ra.'1P;e :nav be renorte1. ::xa-:nle: ( 0 ea.!"S 

with ~5 to ::)')<;, avera~ a.'1proxir:la.tel? '1~ t'. S. 'Jo. 1 'lualitv) :na•1 be reoorted either as "'J, S. Combination, ra'1~ us ·to O'~'! avera2;e apor?xi::la.telv 

7')", U. S. :·Jo. 1 qualit:1", or ''!1. S. Co"lbination, avera.;;e a.'1oroxiwte1:: 51~ 'J. S. :1o. 1 quality". · 

Renorti.'1g tots That Are out of Grade. ~oJ!1en lots fail to ~et t!1e 

requirerrents of the a;rade or specification on which t!1e i:1spectbn was 

l:'&luested, the bspector has three alternatives, na'llel.v: 

, 

2. 

3. 

~eport a percenta,o-e of U. S. ~o. 1 grade q•.lality or Io1~er 

grade quality "Fails to ~ade U. s. No. 1. 

but. contains 85% U. S. no. 1 auality". This is the 

standard oroceaure in =v s!1iopi.'1g a."'eas. 

Certi~f t!1e lot on the basis of t!1e next lower ~1e, i~ 

an:v, or Unclassified, as: "'J. S. ~lo. 2, with appMxirmtelv 

75% U. S. ~lo. 1 ':\Uali ty. 11 ~is nrocedure is o~te:-~ follo·,o~ed 

1~here conpulsory state '?7"3-des are i'lvolved. 

If t!1e applicant does not· request that either of the above 

procedures be followed, the lot should be reported as failin~ 

to grade, stat in~ the reasons. E~les: 

(a) PR:tls to grade U.S. No. 1 account of grade defects. 

(b) Fails to grade U. s. ~. 1 accoont undersize 

in few sacks. 

(c) Fails to '!7'ade U. S. 'lo. 1 account materially stained 

onions. 

4. Certificates shoold not report staterrents unc'-:-:o the· Grade headi'111; 

such as "U. S. ~lo. 1, except for--" or "'1eets Condition requirements of grade". 
- lOg -

RePorting Percentag;es of U. S. ~o. 1 t::luality. When a lot faUs to !'14?' 

rreet the requirements of u. s. 'lo. 1 ll;l'ade, the percentil.R;e of TJ. s. 'lo. 

1 quality may f;enerally be certified under the 11 11rade" headin". It 

should be particularly note'd that the tenn "quality" as 'lSeci here means 

that the given percenta~ meets the U. S. ~o. 1 ~ade re~uirements in 

every respect. There is no tol~rance in tre percent~ for stze, color, 

firrmess or any other defect which is mentioned. 'The word "'luality" rrust 

follow the grede name in these instances. Ex~le: "11'5'4 U. S. ~o. l 

quality" and not "85% U. S. No. 1. 11 

When a lot fails to ll;l"ade U. S. No. 1, the percenta~;,e of U. S. No. 1 ('ill~) 

quality is determined by subtracting from 100% the total of the percentages of defects, undersize, oversize and any special tolerances of the 

grade shown in the preceding headinp;s on the certificate. When a nercentage of U.S. No. 1 quality is to be stated, percentaf;es must be reported 

under the "Size" ·and "Quality and Condition" headinp;s instead of using 

the statements "within, well wlthin or average within tolerance". 

Reporting Grade in APproximate Percentages. Under the "Grade" (51J<;) 

heading the percentage of "u. S. No. 1 Qualitv"rrust be reported in actual 

percentages found when these percentaP-;es are 85% or more. For less 

amounts of u. s. No. 1 quality percentaP-;es reported should be rounded to 

the nearest nurrtler ending in 0 ·or 5 and qualified by the word "approxmately , 11 thus: 74% and 77% would be reported as "aporoximately 7'5%." 

P.A.C.A. has ruled that cars certified as a percenta;r,e of U.S. ('i46) 

No. 1 quality will not meet "good delivery requirements" if they contain 

decay at shipping point in excess of the tolerance. 

Where size (undersize and/or oversize) is a factor of grade or (~47) 

there is an additional tolerance for special defects, such as undercolored specimens of Italian prunes, discoloration of citrus fruits, etc., 

these must be added to the percentage of ordinary grade defects in 

calculating the percentage of U. s. No. 1 quality. ExaJ!llle: If a lot 

of·Italian prunes showed 5% general defects, 8% undercolored prunes and 

5% undersize prunes, the percentage of U. S. No. 1 quality is 82% (to 

be reported as "approximately 80".) 

In those commodities such as apples, pears, peaches and tomatoes, ('i4R) 

where size is not a factor of grade, off-size should not be included 

when determining the percentage of U. S. No. 1 quality. Also, when the 
·- lFJ -

de~ect is to be scorerl w. a definitio" "lf dam;;;e to t'10 lot as a ,~,ole 

as in the case of punctures 1/r; to 3/1 inches in di~~ter on "le8rS,the 

n~rcenta~e of this tyne of defect should not he included in deterr.tln:lr~ 

the nercentar,e of U. S. '!o. 1 guaUty. \'hen a lot is out of' grade due 

to da:·age to the aonearance .of th~ lot '3.5 3. Hhole, no Dercentar:e of TJ. S. 

~Jo. 1 qurrlity ~he reoo~ed. 

( 'Jll?) 11r::tdes ' .Jith "Unless Otherwise Soeci fied" Clauses. In the case o" 

'l. cornnodity A<ith a e;rade that pl"JVides "or ::t certain size unless other,;ise 

specEied, the pe;-ocenta~ of tl, S. 'Jo. 1 quality rn;:w be CO!TT\Uted or. more • • 

t'J::tn one b<l.se. "'or exam:>le: U. 3. l!'J. 1 'J'onoed Ca!Tots, 1•1hich unless 

otherwise specified requires A. minimu'Tl di.a!'Jeter of 3/ IJ i!"lch "Drl a M?..xir..Jlll 

"::iaireter of 1-1/~ inc"Jes. A lot which s"Jows 1 ')", under 3/4 inch, includinp; 

~% U'1der 5/R L'1ch, and 10% over 1-3/q inc~es, none over 1-1/2 ~'1ches, 

::tlso 15% clefects, !1'.3.Y be certified as follO\'IS U'1der ''Grade'': 

75:; U. S. 'Jo. 1 '1Uali ty; or, 81'1% 'J. 3. ~!o. · 1 '1Wl.li ty, 

5/3 L'1C!1 minimum; or, fie;~ U. S. :•To. 1 GWl.lity, l-3/P 

inches maxir.um dia'Tleter; or, 7'J't 'J. S. 'Jo. 1 qu'l.lit:v, 

::;r inc!"! minimu11 diameter, 1-3/0 i.!"lches maxirum dia!'Jeter. ~is sa11e princiDle apolies to certification for other 

"thler,s othel"\~ise specifier:'' reguire~nts such as that 

for trimming in the sta'1dards for P.roccoli, stalk len~h 

havinP.; ~en color in Asr.araQ:Us, 1ens:;;h of cob in green 

com; size of potatoes and onions, etc. 

( '550) '.Yhen. Percenta!'}e of U. S. ~.Jo. 1 l')uali ty 3e low c;o<;. It is not 

necessa.ry to s'low less than 50«: U. S. ·~o. 1 'lUalit~' unless re'1Uested bv 

the applicant to do so. \men t"Je oercenta~ is lo•,o~er th"J1 this, t!"le lot 

may be reoorted as U. S. \lo. 2 or Unclassified, or as fails to ~de· 

u. S. clo. 1 account----------. 

Container Tolera11ces [):) 'lot Limit 0 erce!"lt">re o~ \_1. S. 

')ualitv. Lots certFied as a perce!"lt'l.~ of tJ, .S. '!o. l OU'l.lity 

limitej by a mininWTI range such as "1-1/2 ti!?Es the tolera11ce" 

such average percentages are not establishect ~ades. ~is does 

to Corrbination !1)"8.des a'1d Conr.ercial p;rades :~'len the percentaP,;e 

pernitted in individual contaL11ers is lL~tect. 

'lo. 1 

qre not 

because 

11ot apply 

(' . f' "- 0. Cle.ec_.; 
Revised Au~st 29; 1966 - BN 27-1 

- 111 -

High Percentages of U. S. No. 1 Quality. Certificates some- (552) · 

tirres shO'." averar,;e oercentap;es c:'. U. S. "lo. 1 rJUality that are hip;her than 

that required by the ~ade. This occurs when samples generally are well 

;.rithin tolerance but a few samples are found that exceed the container 

tolerance thus putting; the entire car out of grade. For example: A lot of peas 

where 18 samples examined ranged from 2 to 5% defects and two samples show 20%, 

averaging 4%. This lot would. be reported as "Average 96% U.S. No.1 qua_lity". 

A similar situation occurs when defects are within tolerance but decay exceeds 

the tolerru1ce either as to average or to container tolerance. · 

Serious Defects of a Progressive Nature ~st be Reoorted in (553) 

Clonnect.ion With Grade Statements on Percentage Lots. In order to make it 

more convenient for the seller to fUrnish to buyers important information 

as to condition, the statement under "Grade" on percentage lots rust show follry~ing the percentage of U. S. No, 1 quality, and any qualifYing 

statement as to size, etc., the average percentage of decay and any other 

serious derects of a progressive nature if they exceed the grade tolerance. For example: "Approximately 85% U. S. No. 1 qua_lity, 2 inches 

minirrum, 4% soft rot." 'llie percentage of decay and other serious' defects 

of a progressive nature will also be shown in the "Grade" statement when 

they are within the grade tolerance if the range of such derects.in any 

sample exceeds the variations permitted in the application of tolerances. 

In this case the average and the fact that such defects are irregular ITUJ.St 

be reported in the "Grade" statement. For exantJle: . "Approximately 85% 

U. S. No. 1 qual1 ty Green; decay irregular, average 1%". Decay and 

other serious defects of a p1~gressive nature will not be sho~ under 

"grade" when they are within the J17'ade tolerances and they do not exceed 

the variations permitted in the application of the tolerances. 

The following a.»e defects of a proJ17'essive nature ...,tJich must ( 554) 

he reported i:1 connection with the grade as well as being reported and 

described under the "Condition" or "Quality and Conditim" headings on 

the certificate when the defects are serious enough to sc.:ore against the 

grade on which they are being certified and they exceed the tolerance in ~he grade under which they are scored: 

All CO!liilOdi.ties - - - - - - - Decay and soft rot limited by 

special toleran0es in the gr,ades. 

Wet breakdown following freezing, 

overripe, flabby. 
- 112-

Cantaloups- - - - - - - -

Cauliflower - - - - - - -

Celery- - - - - - - - - - Citrus - Florida & Texas- - -

CUcurrbers - - - - - - - - · Garlic- - - - - - - - Onions- - - - - -

Peaches - - - - - Peppers - - - - - - -

Potatoes- - - - - - - - - - -

Tanatoes- -

\vate:rrrelons 

Sort, free liquid and seeds. 

Spread, yellow jacket leaves. 

Blackheart,. Brown Stem. 

Skin breakdown. 

Anthracnose, shriveled ends. 

Waxy Breakdown. 

Breakdown, sprouts. 

Soft. 

Shriveling. 

Mahogany Browning, Internal Bl?.ck 

Spot, Net Necrosis, sticky,sunken 

discolored areas. 

Sort, virus mottling, sunken discolored areas, Internal Srownin12;. 

Anthracnose. 

( 555) Unless a:rended at a later date, the above list ;includes all of 

the ~actors which are considered defects of a pro~ssive nature that 

should be reported in connection with the gra.de.on percentage of grade 

1uality certifications. It nust be rerrerrbered that it is the intent to 

include only those factors which are considered serious from the standpoint of their progressive deterioration and that no consideration shoui~ 

be g;i ve!"l as to 'llhether or not a· defect is listed as serious damg;e b 

our grades, 

. ( 'i56) "\eoortbp; P:Tcenta«:es of U. S. 'lo. 2 Quali tv. '.'!hen a lot of p::>ocluct · for "'hich there is a U. S. 'lo. 2 grade fails to meet the reauirerrents of 

this grade, it is satisfactory to renort a oercentage of U. S. 'Jo. 2 

quality if it is a product ~or 'tlhich it is a conrnercial nractice to niick 

the TJ. S. 'lo. 2 ll;I"ade, such as o::>an~es ·and tomatoes. Senortb;:; 'l "'e::>-

centa;:;e of lJ. S. '!o. 2 quiili tv is :1ot arlvisab le i:1 C"'..Se of a product fo::> ~~hie~ this ~ade is not generally o2cked. '!'he folloWi.'1;z; t'1ree net'1:Jds 

:7'!8.,? !Je 1Jsed in ::laki.'1g t:;.e ~a:le sta:e:7)2!1t for nroiucts 'dh:!.c!i :'ail to :::ee-: 

·the :r. S. 'Jc. 2 £7'ade requirements: 

1. Show the percentage of U. 'S. ~lo. 2 ouali tv. 

2. State that it fails to £!7'ade !J. S. :lo. 2 account of --------. 3. Certify as U:1classified. 
- ll3-

Reoorting Percenta~s of U. s. Fancy Grade. 

not to certifY percentage of U. S. Fancy quality 

U. S. No. 1 grade. 

It is our usual oolic.v 

if stock fails to meet 

(557) 

Instructions for Reporting U. S. Fancy and U. S. No. 2 Quality. The (SSR) 

principles and instructions that apply to reoortin~ U. S. No. 1 quality 

~nerally also apply to reoorting; U. S. Fancy &ld U. S. No. 2 quality. 

Usually 85% U. S, No. 2 quality will be as low a oercenta~ of quali.ty 

as should be reported. Circumstances such as heavy percenta~s of defects 

not causing serious dama~ or requirements of purchase prog;rnms rna.Y, 

however, warrant reportin~ a lower percentcu;g:. Even in such cases less 

than 75% U. S. No. 2 quality should not be reported, except on special 

request, because a lot grading less than this would be of such poor quality 

that the percentage would be of little or no si~ficance. 

CertifYing Percentage of Grade A Quality on Consumer Grades. On most (5'19) 

commodities there is. no ob,j ection to certifying a percent~e of U. S. 

Grade A quality when the product is packed on the basis of the consumer 

standards providing the pack~es are not labeled as to g;rade. 

Detei"TTining Weighted Averages of U. S. No. 1 or Other C'lrade Quality. ( c;6o) 

In many loads of such products as strawberries, where the size of the lots 

in the load as well.as the percentage of U. S. No. 1 varies, only weiR;hted avera~s of U. S. No. 1 quality will be accurate. 

To detern:Une the weig;hted average percentw;e of U. S. No. 1 quality (561) 

on irregular size lots showing a wide variation in percent~ of U. S. 

No. 1 quality, first determine the avera~ percent~ of u. s. No. 1 

quality in each lot in the usual way. Then multioly these average percentages by the number of containers in each lot. Total these figures 

and d1 v:tde the total by the number of contain.ers. 'Ihus: 

20 crates x 60% U. S. No. 1 quality 1200 

100 crates x 50% U. S. No. 1 quality - 5000 

5 crates x 90% U. S,' No. 1 quality 450 

10 crates x 95% U. S. No. 1 quality 950 

135 7 00 

7600 -:- 135 = 56% U. S. No. 1 quality Which should be reported as 

approximatelY 55% U. S. No. 1 quality. 'lhis gives due weig;ht to 

the'number of packages which show the different percentages of U. S. 

No. 1 quality. 
-114-

(562) Reporting Overgrade Stock in a Lot. If a lot is packed or 

marked to meet U.S. No. 2, but grades 25% or more U.S. No. 1 

quality, then the percentage of u.s. No. 1 quality may be 

reported, especially if requested by the applicant. This 

information should follow the "Grade" statement thus: "U.S. No. 

2 with approximately 35% u.s. No. 1 quality." Mention of less 

than 25% generally should not be made as a small percentage of 

over-grade specimens is to be expected in any U.S. No. 2 pack. 

(563) If the product is one for which no grade. is provided below 

u.s. No. 1, as is the case with many green vegetables, or if the 

.lot is Unclassified, it usually will not be desirable to show 

less than 50% U.S. No. 1 quality. 

(564) When a lot is certified as Unclassified, -the proportion of 

U.S. No. 1 quality may be shown under the "Grade" heading and the 

proportion of defects·· affecting U.S. No. 2 grade reported under 

the "Quality and Condition" heading. 

Example: 

Q&C: Grade defects affecting u.s. No. 2 range from 20 to 

45%, average 35%, consisting mostly of-----------." 

Grade: Unclassified. Approximately 40% u.s. No. 1 quality. 

(565) If there is no grade for the product below u.s. No. 1, the 

"grade defects" statement will be the same as for any lot which 

fails to meet u.s. No. 1 and the percentage of u.s. No. 1 quality 

-may be reported under the "Grade"" heading. 

(566) When a Lot Meets a Higher Grade Than Marked. When an 

inspection of a lot is requested on the basis of u.s. No. 1, but 

the lot is found to meet the requirements of u.s.· Fancy, u.s. 

Extra No. 1 or a Combination U.S. Fancy and U.S. No. 1, it is 

not necessary to mention this factor .. 

REMARKS 

(567) At shipping point there usually is no need for a "Remarks" 

heading on the certificate and none has been printed on the long 

form. However, in some instances it is necessary to make 

explanatory or qualifying statements or to furnish information 

that the inspector is unable to personally certify to or that 

does not fall into the category of any of the usual certificate 

headings. Under such circumstances, a "Remarks" heading should 

be typed in near the bottom of the certificate following the 

"Grade" heading. Under this heading the following and similar . 

information should be reported: 

~. 
- lJ'i -

(1) · ':he car or true% license nll'nher ''hen the insnector does not (t;f 0 ) 

see the lot loaded 8nd the num~er is sunnlied by the aoplicPnt. EX~)le: 

i\pp licMt states lot loaded into c'l.r P=, 'i4)21. 

(?.) Cross reference certii'icate numbers whC'l two or more certl.f'i- ('il'iC1) 

catc s a.re issu.cd coverinf.!; the same car. Exil.ITIJ'lles: 

(a) .Inspection of pears in this car reported on 

certificate nwrber A-g7ll'J?.. 

(b) Inspection and certificate restricted to condition only, lot previously i!'lspected for 

qu~lity and condition on A!!d reported 

(!!ate) . 

on certi.ficate number _______ _ 

(3) Statements that the certificate has been corrP.cted. Example: 

This is a corrected certificate that supersedes certificate No. ----

(571J) 

( 4) Stora~ or warehouse lot numbers and purchase order number. ( 'i7l) 

that ·are not quoted from marks on the containers but are supnlied by the 

applicant or stora~. Examples: · 

(a) S,tar Cold Stora~ Co. records show lot stored under· 

their warehouse number 45321. 

(b)· Aoplicant states lot covered by nurchase order 

OAK-132')4, 

(5) Truck license numbers when a larr,e lot bein~ moved by various ('i72) 

: trucks is certified on one certificate and the aoplicant; requests the 

license numbers be reported. 

( 6) Restrictive statements .~.s to loadine;, condition, size, certain ( 573) 

~ks, etc. See followine: parae:ranhs. 

RESTRICI'ED CERI'IFICATE.'3 

Restricted < rtificates ~nerally fall into one of two classes: ('i74) 

(1) restrictions to a portion of a lot or load 8nd (2) restrictions to 

specified factors describing the oroduct. 
-116-

(575) (1) Occasions arise where the inspector is not able to make 

an inspection of all parts of the load. If the car is alq~ady 

partly or fully loaded and the applicant is not willing or is ,,, 

unable to make all parts accessible for proper sampling, or if 

the inspector is unable to inspect the last of the load placed in 

the car due to the car having been pulled in their absence, or 

for other reasons, do not hesitate 'to issue a restricted 

certificate covering only that part of the load which was 

sampled. Also, when making inspections of lots in storage, all 

portions of the lots must be accessible for sampling, otherwise 

the certificate must be restricted to the portion that is 

accessible, such as the upper three layers or the front three 

stacks of warehouse piles. If such restrictions do not appear on 

the certificate, it will be assumed the inspection covered the 

entire lot and the in'spector will be held responsible for any 

errors resulting. 

(576) Restrictions to a portion of a load or lot because of being 

inaccessible weakens a certifi,cate. Every effort should be made 

to sample the entire lot or car, either by the inspector's 

efforts if practical, or with the shipper's cooperation if 

possible, in order that restricted certificates may be kept to a 

minimum. 

(577) The "Remarks" statement on the certificate must state 

clearly what portion of the lot is covered by the certificate. 

The statement "restricted to accessible portion of load" alone is 

not satisfactory. The portion of the load or lot covered by the 

certificate must be specified by reporting the layers, stacks, 

andjor rows sampled or by reporting identifying marks such as 

brands, grades, varieties, etc. The restricting statement must 

also include the reason for the restriction. 

(578) When the car is fully loaded at time of inspection and the 

certificate is res~ricted to the accessible portion, such as the 

upper layers or the stacks nearest doors, or to upper layers or 

front stacks, etc., of warehouse lots, the count to be reported 

under the "Products" heading is that of the entire load or lot. 

Under all other circumstances, such as restrictions to portions 

of loads in ends of cars (the remainder having been loaded after 

inspector leaves) and restrictions to specified commodities, 

varieties, grades, brands, marks, etc.,, the count to be reported 

is that of the portion of the load or lot actually sampled 

(usually such.restrictions are at the applicant's request). 
- 117-

Examoles: 

Car Fully Loaded at Time of Inspection: 

Products: ( includinv, count of entire load) --· ------ See "Remarks-". 

Remarks: Certificate restricted to accessible upper 3 layers of 

Load. Car loaded at time of inspection. 

or: Certificate restricted to accessible 2 stacks each side 

of centerbracing. Car loaded at time·of inspection. 

or: (Bulk Load) Certificate restricted to upper 2 feet of 

load. Car loaded at time of inspection. 

or: (Warehouse storage lot) 

front 2 stacks and upper 

remainder inaccessible. 

eertificate restricted to 

3 la,yers of warehouse pile, 

( ~ /9) 

last of Loadine; ~ot Inspected. In any case where the insoector ('5.'30) 

cannot remain until a car is completely loaded, the certificate must show 

under the heading of 11Loadin11;" the exact condition of the load as last 

seen by the inspector, and not as it is expected to be when finished. 

Cases have occurred where the stock for the car was all set out and ~vailable for inspection, but the loading was cha'1P.;ed, and in some instances 

different stock was substituted after the inspector's departure. Receiving point discovery of such a situation as this seriously discre~its 

the shippinv, point service. The number of packages shown under the 

"Products" heading should be the number in the car when the inspector 

leaves - Example: 

Products: - - - - 425 oackages • See "Remarks" • 

Loading: - - - - - - at co!Jl)letion of inspection 10 stacks A end 

of car, 7 stacks B end, 5 rows, '5 layers, each layer stripped. 

Remarks:- - - - - - - 75 packa~s on floor of packinP, shed of same 

lot as that covered by this certificate, anq 

of same grade and condition, which applicant 

states will be loadeq 1n space between doors. 
Revised March 27, 1974 BN-61-l(a) 

• - J.l8 -

( 581) Or, if the packa~s which the applicant states are to cor!l='lete the 

load are not available, the· staterrent under the head.imz; "Rerra.rks" should 

be: "Certificate restricted to the 465 packages .in car at c~letion of 

inspection. Inspector unable to examine last of ladi!1g before car was 

pulled". 

(582) Restricting Certificate to Certain 11arks, Varieties or Grades. In 

some cases the inspection may be requested to' cover onLy a certain lot or 

lots in the car. The number of packa~s inspected should be shown under 

"Products". It is only necessary to show the loading of the products 

inspected, however, the complete loading of the car may be shown opposite 

"Loading" if desired. 

Examole: 

Products: Fresh Peas, 160 crates, labeled-----.;.-----. 

See "Remarks". 

Loading: Crates of peas in B end of car 8 stacks, 5 rows, 

4 layers, each la,yer stripped. Remainder of 

load is cabbage. Divided load, centerbraced. 

Remarks: Certificate restricted to peas in car. IAanifest 

shows 120 crates cabb~ also in car. 

( 583) Under the heading "Remarks" should be reported ( 1) that part of the 

( 534) 

* 

* 

.. 

* 

* 

.. 

load to which the inspection and certificate is restricted, and (2) when 

readily available, the nuntler of packages and kind of the product also 

in the car but not inspected. The latter information is for statistical 

purposes and should be quoted from the manifest. Cases arise where for 

claritv of the certificate itself, it is best to show both the part. of 

the loa:l which is covered by the certificate and that which is not, particularly where one portion of the load shows marks which are not 

conspicuous. 

Restricting Certificates to Certain Points. Under certain circumstances the inspect1on may be restr1cted to condition, net or gross 

weight of containers, size, temperature, Standard Pack, count or 

weight of specimens. In such cases, the certificate must be restricted. 

For example: (1) "At applicant's request inspection and certificate . restricted to condition only." (2) "At applicant's request inspection and certificate restricted to n~t weight only". 

.. 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 

* 
* 

* 

* 

* 

- lFJ -

Restricting inspection to one factor of quality or condition fs not 

penni tted. ·Restricting to one factor may result in misunderstanding 

as to ~~he the r or not the 1 ot may be in or out of grade. 

Certificates restricted to me factor of guqlity, such ar< 3oli ':!i t.•1 

of lettuce or color of apples; are usually unnesirable. Such cr>rti"i.-

cates rny be issued only with the Permission of the \o/asl<inrrton of'fic~. 

When requests are received for such restricted inspections, cofJsult '10'.tr 

Federal supervisor. 

CO~INUOUS INSPF.Cl'ICN 

* 

* 

The Rep;ulations a;ovemine; the inspection and certification of frc:3h ( " 0 7) 

fruits, ve~tables and other nroducts provide for a continuou~ ins~ect1on 

service associated with the use of the annroved ~de shielrJ, t"le .'l.onroved 

continuous inspection marks, or both, on the container.' This ser\rice l'lav 

be supplie1 either at shipnin~ point or receivine; market whenever insnectors 

are available, the facilities and conditions are satisfactory f'or tl<e servic~, 

and there is a sif'i1ed contract between the armlicant and th"! ~DC>.rtrrent, 

or a coooerative Pederal-State Inspection A~ncy in which it is q~"!d 

that such service will be conducted sub.ject to the re«;Ulations P;ovemin~ 

the inspections of fresh fruits, ver,etables and other nroducts, and any 

additional and supplem=ntal instructiom issued by the Department or o;uch 

instructions issued by a cooperatinr: a~ncy which are not inconsistent with 

those issued by the Department, These re@.llations also cover such points 

as ·surve.v of the plant and nremises, equinrrcnt, one rations 'lnd or>eratinP" 

procedures, and termination of the contr:J.cts. '!'he insnectors, as 11e 11 

as applicants, must be fully advised rep;aroinP.; thf"se detflils, bec"tuse thev 

will be made a part of the contract hy reference to the Re~Jlations, t,u~ 

simpli~{in~ contr~cts. (See Sections Sl.S7 ani Sl.S9 to Sl.~~ of' the 

Re~lations). Re'"]Uests for this service should be ta.ken un ·.~it"l the 

District Suoervisor. 

VISUAL AIDS 

All Inspectors-in-charp;e and sunervisinr; inspectors to "tlhom vtsur. 1 (:; 0 '') 

aid materials are a.'33if')'led should tilke necessary orecautions to nr'"ltec: 

them from damp;e and from loss or theft. It should h<" noted t~nt. it i.s. 

in violc>.tion of Department Rer:ulations to sell or give visual 'l:i~s ·to 

private parties. 

* * * * * 
, 

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Plate I 
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= 

GUIDE ROW . 

. II I ~ 

THROUGH LOAD 

II n 

DIVIDED LOAD 

BUSHEL BASKET LOADING 

DIAGONAL 

Plate II 
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CROSSWISE ARRANGEMENT 

OF CONTAINERS IN A CAR 

~ 

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-----

UPRIGHT AR-RANGEMENT 

OF CONTAINERS IN A CAR 

Plate III 
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1&.1 

END flY CAR 

I I n I 

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i - I I I 

II j \I IIH I IHI 1141111-\Ul 

END-TO-END OFFSET LOAD CROSSWISE OFFSET LOAD 

END BOARD FOR BASKET LOADS 

I I 

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ALTERNATELY INVERTED 

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- L~--~.t- c_;_t 

SIDE LOAD A.L. TER"i~;It.-,.Y 

REVERSE[) 

Plate IV 
-TIGHT LOAD- CAR IS TIGHTLY FILLED BY CONTAINERS AND-

-LENGTH OF LOAD A SPACE FILLER ' 

LENGTHWISE SPACE I . 

LENGTH OF LOAD 

LENGTHWISE SPACE 

TIGHT LOAD 

-1.- LENGTHWISE SLACK 

CAUSING A LOOSE LOAD 

LENGTHWISE SLACK 

LOOSE LOAD 

Plate V 

h 

( 

I...-
~ 

CRosswise- SPAce-
';+=? I• r' ~-H' +--IS 

@UPRIGHTS 

G) UPRIGHTS 

c::E:::J Q CROSSPIECE§ 

4) SPREADERS 

f) CAPS 

TWO TYPES OF CENTER GATES 

Plate VII 

® CROSSBARS 
@UPRIGHTS 

@CROSSPIECES 

f TWO TYPES OF END GATES \ 

® 

CAR SPACING 

FRAME 

SPACING 

-srRTI'YS 
·@UPRIGHTs 

@CROSSPIECEs 
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Plate X *U.S. Government Printing Office : 1090 _., • - -~l-4~J/~UJS7 
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