Heavy haul trucking needs an understanding of big trucks and the knowledge of handling large and heavy equipment. It would help if you had an understanding of special handling, optimized routing, and additional permits in some states/countries. This kind of knowledge comes in handy when you need to haul oversized industrial equipment or say military equipment that is both bulky and huge.
Understanding weight limitations, driver permits, type of truck recommended for certain goods, and the definition of oversized load can help you create a smooth transportation process for everyone. Here are a few basics that you must know about heavy haul trucking.
Main Characteristics of Oversized or Overweight Freight
Any cargo that has the following specifications is characterized under oversized or overweight freight:
- Width of 8.6 feet
- Height of 13.6 feet
- Length of 48 to 53 feet
- The gross weight of 80,000 pounds
Types of Axles and Corresponding Permissible Weight
There are strict rules that guide the weight limit on different types of axles. Here are the most common weight restrictions (maximum weight):
- Steer axles – 12,000 pounds
- Single Axles – 20,000 pounds
- Drive Axles – 34,000 pounds
- Tandem Axles – 34,000 pounds
If a cargo exceeds any of these weight limits, a trucking company will have to use trucks with additional axles or reduce the weight of the shipment on a single vehicle and divide it into multiple trucks.
Permissions
Heavy haul trucks need appropriate, multiple permits to travel. Multiple because, more often than not, the trucks crisscross through various states and countries, and every place has its own set of rules. Typically, the permits are issued on a per-shipment basis, which means the trucking company has to apply for a license every time they are set to move heavy cargo. Some cargos may also require permits from counties and municipalities.
Various states and countries also give specific permits that define the amount of time a freight can travel and provide specific operating hours. Weekend and holiday travel restrictions also apply in some places.
Display Banners
In almost all countries, vehicles transporting oversized goods need to display special signage or banners. Following are the details:
- Oversized load banners can be put on the front and rear of the vehicle carrying an oversized shipment.
- Safety Flags – these are fluorescent coloured flags that can be placed at the outermost corners of the vehicle.
- Lights – at some places, it is necessary that the heavy haul trucks are equipped with rotating LED lights.
- Escort Cars – some places require full load trucks to be accompanied by escort cars. Some specific materials may also need a police escort.
Heavy Hauls in North America
Vectra Heavy Haulers is one of the accessible heavy hauler companies in Canada. This company specializes in transporting oversized and overweight freight across the USA and Canada. Whether you are shipping equipment to Canada and within Canada or shipping equipment to the US from Canada, they understand the nuances of heavy hauling and hire only drivers of the highest calibre to do the job. The team at Vectra Heavy Haulers are highly trained and understand all the nuances of heavy hauling, including transport permissions. With Vectra Heavy Haulers, you get end to end, hassle-free, hauling service.
Video – Logistics
Interesting related article: “What is Logistics?“