Making standard deliveries with a tractor trailer can already be tough enough. However, oversized loads come with their own set of unique challenges. There’s a few specific things you’ll want to keep in mind whenever you’re moving these larger hauls…
Oversized Loads: Important Considerations
Legal limits
Legal limits are something you definitely want to keep in mind when moving oversized loads. In general, the maximum height and width for a regular load is 102 inches. The maximum length varies a bit, but it is usually around 50 inches. Anything past this tends to be oversized.
Still, keep in mind that each state may have their own load limits. Some may also limit you to only being able to drive during daytime hours. It’s crucial that you do proper research into what these restrictions may be before you get out onto the road.
Physical limits
You also need to consider physical limits when moving oversized loads. This means you have to ensure your truck will be able to safely deliver your haul. You’ll also need to adhere to any weight limits, which officials will check regularly at weigh stations.
Keep in mind, though, that weight limits are based on the axle and not the total weight of the haul itself. Sometimes, all you need to do is shift the position of your haul to meet these limits. Depending on how you break it up, you may even avoid the “oversized” attribute for your delivery entirely!
Travel escorts
It’s typical for oversized loads of 12 feet or more in width to require escort vehicles. These vehicles will drive ahead of your truck and spot any issues or important signs that you need to be aware of. They also help give other drivers a heads up that there’s an especially large haul coming their way.
These vehicles tend to be marked with lights, flags, and signs, so they’re easy to spot even when you’re further behind them. Be sure that you keep an eye on them and listen to whatever info they report back to you. This will go a long way in ensuring you make your delivery safely.