An oversized load literally means a load that has a problem fitting down the roads. Transporting these loads tends to be tricky and requires special techniques to move them from one place to another. Some of the oversized loads include steel beams, cranes, prefabricated homes, tractors, and combine harvesters among more. Here are some key factors to consider when transporting an oversize load to deliver the cargo according to customer expectations.
Know the Limits of Your Load
The maximum load should have a width and height limit of 8.5 feet. The length should be between 48 to 55 feet, and the load should weigh up to 46000 pounds. If it exceeds those dimensions, it is an oversize load.
Find Out Whether Your Load Is Oversized
It’s always good to find out whether your load exceeds the weight limits per axle of the transport vehicle. A shipment may not exceed the weight limit but may exceed per axle limits. By doing some adjustments on the load, the shipment can be fine to require no permits. If your shipment is over 12 feet wide, it requires an escort vehicle. For specific regulations, consult the state transportation department.
Employ Escort Vehicles
Escort vehicles, also known as pilot cars, are deployed when a load being moved has greater physical dimensions of length, width and height of the highway it is to be transported on. Most shipment companies prefer to use two cars, one at the front and the other at the back. Their main job is to alert and warn drivers of the vehicles carrying the over-sized load about obstacles on the road like accidents, construction zones and traffic jams. They also notify the public of the presence of a heavily loaded vehicle.
Obtain Permits
Before you start to move your load, ensure that you have obtained oversize permits texas with the actual route to be taken to avoid any inconvenience during the shipment. Ensure to stick to the simple regulations as per the permit and always travel within the recommended time. Many states prohibit shipments during weekends and holidays.
Make Sure the Load Vehicle Is Well Visible
The oversized load mover needs to be made visible so that it can easily be noticed by on and overcoming traffic. You will need a red flag on all corners of the truck and warning lights. The vehicle will also need to be fitted with wide load banners at the front and the rear.
Issuing Notice
If there is need for road diversions due to heavy load shipment, a minimum of two-week notice should be given for the industry to find alternative routes. Giving notice in advance will help those responsible for traffic management to plan for the movement of oversized loads and communicate about this to the transport industry.
Moving oversized loads is quite challenging and you have to consider some of the points highlighted above for the proper preparation of the shipment. Every step is crucial for safe delivery without incurring extra costs or damage. It’s best to use experienced specialists in the oversized load transport industry.