Tips For Hauling Oversized Loads
For truck company owners, being able to handle oversized loads can help provide you with a competitive edge over other companies that are not equipped to handle the logistics and complexities that come with larger-than-average cargo. And while hauling big loads is potentially more lucrative than normal loads, the amount of planning, the cost of various permits that may be necessary, and the expense of support assistance that could be required can limit the overall profit you might make on jumbo jobs.
However, for those considering getting into the oversized load category, we’ve outlined the steps you should take before hitting the road.
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Defining Oversized
Generally speaking, an oversized or overweight load is a shipment that exceeds weight limits established by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHA). Even though each state may have its own regulations on what they consider “oversized,” the general rule of thumb is a gross vehicle weight of more than 80,000 pounds. That’s the combined weight of the load itself and the rig carrying it.
An oversized load can also be defined by the measurements of the load. Again, while there are federal guidelines, dimensions can vary by state. However, they are most often defined as anything that is wider than 8.5 feet, taller than 13.5 feet, or longer than the average trailer.
Know Before You Go
Besides the weight capacity, there are several other components and costs associated with the transportation of oversized cargo that need to be considered when taking on a job.
- Permits: Overweight loads typically require a special permit or permits that need to be obtained before you are qualified to carry. Depending on the regulations established by the states and/or municipalities in which you may be traveling, these permits will not only have a cost associated with them, they may have restrictions on which roads/routes you can use, the time of day that travel is permitted, and whether special pilot cars are needed to escort the load.
- Escorts: If an escort is required, some states also require specific certifications for the drivers of the escort vehicles. This may involve taking a driving course and passing a test. You also need to be aware that while some states have reciprocal agreements for escort vehicle certifications, others may not, meaning that your driver will need to be certified in every state/municipality in which the escort vehicle will be operating.
- Markings: Even if an escort is not needed, you may need to have “Oversized Load” banners, flags, and warning lights to alert other vehicles that may be sharing the same space at the same time.
- Endorsements: In addition to needing a driver with a commercial driver’s license (CDL), depending on the load, the driver may also need certain endorsements, which are specialized qualifications that drivers can add to their CDL.
Loading Up
When it comes to transporting oversized loads, some of the best trailers to use are flatbeds and lowboys, including double drop and step decks. Before loading, make sure that the trailer and ramps (if using) are free from dirt, debris, and moisture that can all affect how smoothly the cargo can be loaded and seated on the trailer.
Also be careful to distribute the weight of the load as evenly as possible, both front to end and side to side. This will help ensure there won’t be any problems with tip overs during transportation.
In addition, to properly secure your load, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has very specific guidelines about the types of materials you can use (for example, rope versus chain) and the number of tie-downs that must be used.
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Heading Out
Before hitting the road, make sure the truck and trailer tires are at their recommended pressures and that all headlights, taillights, and running lights are working properly.
Your route should be pre-planned so it meets national, state, and local regulations for the roads you’ll be traveling on. This should also include whether there are any obstacles such as low bridges or narrow roads, and you should have an emergency plan in place if something goes wrong during the transport process. In addition, the driver should be well-versed in defensive driving techniques, including taking things slow and steady, and avoiding any sudden movements forward or hard-braking situations.
Ready to become an oversized hauler? Load up and follow these tips for an efficient journey.
Barrett Baker
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