Taking the right approach to shipping heavy equipment, storage tanks, multiple vehicles and materials for projects is easier said than done. You require a trusted partner to map out compliance standards, and in some cases, verify you are following local laws as to how much weight towing vehicles are permitted to haul, according to the state you are in.
Wide Load Shipping supports you with services to relocate your oversized loads and machines. Our professionals have a strong grasp of the maximum lengths and widths allowed on road systems in your area and how to transport items safely. Work with our experts to remain compliant with local regulations and take the most cost-effective route to shipping.
The U.S. federal government has several standards regarding the weight and dimensions of loaded vehicles. It is important to remember that states have the ability to set different standards, as long as they fall within these parameters:
There is no federal regulation regarding the maximum height of an oversized vehicle or trailer. Each state decides this information individually based on its road conditions and the infrastructure of its non-interstate highways. Local municipalities can also establish different vehicle height standards, which means the tallest a truck or trailer can be to travel safely in a given location could be different from the next town or city.
The U.S. federal government provides a recommended height of 13 feet and 6 inches for the greatest chance of compliance when handling interstate travel logistics operations.
You might take this recommendation with a grain of salt, as oversized hauls often require careful planning and thinking several steps ahead. For example, the east of the Missouri River is 13 feet, and 6 inches, or 4.1148 meters, and the west of the Missouri River is 14 feet, or 4.2672 meters. Following the minimum recommendation for truck and trailer height does not always mean that drivers will comply with local compliance requirements statewide.
Similarly, Oklahoma is 13 feet and 6 inches, while Colorado and Nebraska are 14 feet and 16 inches. Some designated routes are approved for additional heights, so be sure to research local laws before attempting to ship oversized items.
The federal government provides a formula for determining the maximum weight a vehicle can carry and still navigate across a bridge. The formula considers the (W) maximum permitted gross weight (in pounds) for two or more axles, (L) the distance between the axles (measured in feet) and (N) the quantity of axles in each set. The formula is as follows:
Each state or province has unique regulations for maximum vehicle width and weight. The regulations for heavy haul and oversize trucking can be complex once a shipment is deemed “heavy” or “oversized,” and there is a classification system within each state that can also qualify a shipment as a “superload.” Note the industry terms below for additional insight:
Once dimensions or weights exceed the maximum legal dimensions and weights, transport permits are required. Some shipments may require pilot cars or even pilot cars equipped with height poles. The trucking company may be required to have a route survey performed, so it is critical to ask your service provider about any additional costs that apply.
To increase your chances of success and compliance, it’s essential to consult a professional before attempting to transport any objects, machinery or equipment that is oversize or overweight.
Whether you are a professional truck driver or a novice with a pickup truck, it’s always essential to know and follow applicable laws. Public safety is a significant factor when transporting large or heavy items because failing to adhere to best practices could hurt your organization financially.
Always consult a professional and local law when transporting overdimensional or overweight shipments. Wide Load Shipping provides cross-country and international transport assistance. All of our contracts map out the fine details in a way that is easy to understand, so complete a form for a quote and consultation.
