FERC Account 392 – Transportation Equipment
FERC Account 392 records the cost of vehicles and transportation equipment used in general utility operations.
Definition
Record in this account the cost of vehicles and transportation equipment used in utility operations.
Account 392 captures the cost of automobiles, trucks, trailers, aircraft, and other transportation equipment used across utility operations. This is one of the most significant general plant accounts for utilities, as line trucks, digger-derricks, aerial lifts, and service vehicles represent major capital investments. The account covers vehicles used by all departments unless assigned to a specific functional account.
What is typically included
- Line trucks, digger-derricks, and aerial lift vehicles
- Service vehicles, automobiles, and light duty trucks
- Trailers and hauling equipment
- Utility boats and watercraft used in operations
- Aircraft used for line patrol or operations if owned by the utility
What is generally not included
- Stores and warehouse equipment not used for transportation (Account 393)
- Power-operated equipment such as bulldozers and cranes (Account 396)
- Tools carried in vehicles (recorded in Account 394)
- Vehicle maintenance equipment and shop equipment (Account 394)
- Leased vehicles treated as operating leases (expensed, not capitalized)
Why this account matters
- Tracks significant vehicle fleet investment for depreciation and asset management
- Supports vehicle cost allocation to operating departments for rate studies
- Required for FERC Form 1 general plant-in-service reporting
- Enables fleet management and vehicle replacement planning
- Provides basis for equipment overhead charges to construction work orders
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Disclaimer: The material in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal or accounting advice provided by Utility Accounting & Rates Specialists, LLC. You should seek formal advice on this topic from your accounting or legal advisor.