If you’ve ever seen a truck with a banner on it that says “oversize load,” you’ve seen heavy haul trucking in action. But what counts as a heavy load, and how does the heavy haul trucking process work? Let’s get into it.
What is Heavy Haul Trucking Used For?
Heavy Haul trucking is used to transport freight that’s too heavy or too large for normal loads, like prefab homes, large pieces of construction equipment or mining equipment, or military equipment. A normal sized load can also be considered a heavy haul (also called a superload) if it’s over 80,000 pounds, or over 13’6″ in height and 8’6″ in width.
This means that most heavy haul customers are either government or business-based, though that’s changing, with how fast the demand for heavy haul trucking is growing. In fact, heavy haul trucking is forecast to grow 7.34% annually through 2026!
Permits Required for Heavy Haul Trucking
Heavy haul loads do require different permitting than normal loads, and the exact type of permits required vary by state and municipal area. Generally speaking, heavy haul truckers are limited to certain movement times or routes, and may have to have extra safety components as well, like pilot cars (also called escort vehicle operators), flags and lights, and of course, the “oversize load” banner. All of this helps the driver ensure that the load gets delivered safely, without damage to the load, the roads and surrounding property, and most importantly, any other motorists.
Choosing a Heavy Haul Trucking Company
Heavy loads require experience and expertise, so it’s important to choose a company that can handle all the logistics involved. Look for companies that have a reputation for being reliable, and for working with truckers who are experienced in pulling superloads.
Looking to move heavy freight? We’d be happy to help you. Our Great Western team has the experience and knowledge needed for safe, efficient, and fast heavy haul shipments. Click here to get a quick quote for your heavy haul needs!
