When businesses need to transport heavy shipments or large loads, they frequently turn to heavy haul transportation services. If your shipment exceeds the typical dimensions and weight limitations allowed to be carried across local, state, and federal roadways, you’ll need to know how to deal with this oversize load. Consider the guide below, which highlights a few important factors to consider when planning for this type of shipment.

What You Should Know About Oversize Loads 

1. Legal Limits

Flatbeds are commonly limited in the size and weight of a load they’re allowed to carry across specific roadways. Typically, you can expect the maximum legal load to be about 8 feet in height, 53 feet in length, and 48,000 pounds. However, this can vary depending on the truck and your state or local government’s regulations. Before making any other plans, make sure you understand your state’s laws and can comply accordingly.

2. Pilot Vehicles

Some oversize loads require the assistance of pilot or escort vehicles. These drivers are meant to warn the truck driver of potential problems, such as accidents, bridges, construction zones, or other hazards. Such occurrences might impact the truck’s journey, so it’s critical the driver is informed about escort vehicles as early as possible. They may also warn other motorists of the large vehicle’s presence to avoid collisions or other dangerous situations.

3. Scheduling Factors

Scheduling this type of transportation requires careful consideration of local laws and rules. For example, some areas enforce rules that limit the amount of time oversize loads can drive at night. If this is the case, you’ll need to ensure the driver knows where to stop in the evenings and can rest before morning. Additionally, permits and detailed travel routes play a critical role in the heavy haul industry. Without them, you might run into unexpected delays and other issues with your transportation.

 

When you need a reliable heavy haul company, turn to the experts at Harvey Trucking Services, Inc. Located in Indianapolis, IN, they can haul construction and oil field equipment, as well as any other type of heavy machinery throughout the continental United States and Canada. Providing dependable and cost-effective solutions since 1993, this family-owned and -operated trucking company keeps their drivers up to date on the latest safety information. Call them today at (317) 429-1647 to request a free quote, or visit them online for more information about their transportation services.