Is My Load an Oversize/Overweight Load?

Ground shipping via over-the-road trucking shows no signs of slowing down, hauling billions of tons of freight each year across America. A small but significant percentage of that freight comes in the form of oversize or overweight loads, which come with their own special challenges and costs. Depending on the size and weight of your load, you could need escort vehicles and additional safety equipment. All Points Transport specializes in oversized shipping in North Charleston, SC. Read the following article for an overview of overweight/oversize load requirements, then call us to find out how we can help!

What is an overweight/oversize load?

Oversize loads are any that exceed the legal width, length, weight and/or height that your state has deemed its maximum. It’s still possible to transport oversize/overweight loads via truck, but additional safety precautions will need to be taken.

While each state may vary in its regulations, a regular size load is almost always 8.5 feet wide and 13.5 feet tall. Length regulations vary greatly by state, so you’ll need to know exactly which states your load will go through. This can be a complex process, but it can be made easier by working with an experienced freight hauler.

What extra steps will I need to take?

When your load exceeds the state’s legal limits, you could be required to do a number of things:

• Warning signs, flags and/or lights: In general, you can expect that your load will need a banner on the front and back reading WIDE or OVERSIZED LOAD, along with 18-inch red or fluorescent orange warning flags on each of the load’s corners or protrusions. Depending on whether you’re permitted to haul at night, you will also need warning lights to affix to the load, as well as to the top of the truck itself.
• Escort vehicles: Generally, if your load is 10 feet wide or less, you won’t need an escort vehicle, but some states require all oversize loads to have escorts. Usually you will need one or two vehicles that will run in front or back of the truck. Some extra-wide loads will require law enforcement escorts.
• Road closures: If your load exceeds 16 feet in width, it becomes a “super load” and will likely require road closures to safely transport it.

How will this affect the running time?

Depending on the state and the size of your load, you may be restricted to hauling only during the daytime, or the state may restrict you to certain roads or highways at night. It’s important to know each state’s rules before setting out on your journey.

Overweight shipping in North Charleston, SC

All Points Transport has been providing intermodal and containerized shipping to North Charleston clients for over a decade. From port drayage to long-distance transport, we can handle any shipping project you may have. Our flexibility and industry expertise make us the top choice for any freight you need to ship fast, affordably and on time. Reach out to us today to discuss your shipping needs.

Categorised in: Overweight Hauling