Shipping an oversized load can come with its complications. However, that shouldn’t stop you from shipping an oversized load if you have one on the docket. Before you do, though, it is important to understand what you are getting yourself into.
There are many small details involved in shipping oversized loads, and having the right partner, such as a freight broker, makes it simpler.
So, here are the first few questions you should consider as you prepare to ship an oversized load.
How Do You Know if You’re Shipping an Oversized Load?
The most important question is to make sure you are actually about to ship an oversized load. If you know the shipments’ measurements, this should be a pretty straightforward answer.
First, if the width of the shipment is 8’6” or more, it would be considered an oversized load.
The height of an oversized load changes depending on where you are in the country. If you are east of the Mississippi, the standard freight limit is 13’6”. If you are west of the Mississippi, the standard freight limit is 14’.
When considering length, freight can be 5’ past the front or back edge of any 48’ trailer. Beyond that, it would be labeled as an oversized load.
Regarding weight, freight can be up to 48,000 lbs before it is considered an oversized load.
What is Commonly Considered an Oversized Load?
While anything can be considered large enough to be an oversized load, there are some commonly known loads that could easily be viewed as oversized loads.
For Example:
- Some Medical Equipment
- Construction Machinery
- Large Pipes
- Manufacturing Materials
- Aerial Equipment
- Structural Steel
Does Your Oversized Load Need Permits?
If your oversized load is being shipped across the country, there are many state permits that you might need to have before it is allowed to be driven through. You will need permits from each state’s Department of Transportation.
Thankfully, securing payments is the carrier’s responsibility. Even so, you should take the time to double-check that your shipment needs permits and that the carrier is able to provide them accordingly.
What Are the Legal Limits For Oversized Loads?
Once you know the measurements of your shipment, you can determine whether it is an average load or an oversized load. You will want to classify it as such so you are abiding by the laws of the states and countries the shipment will move through.
Does Your Oversized Load Need Travel Escorts?
There are many states in which loads that are more than 12 feet wide require a travel escort or pilot vehicles.
Travel escorts are not only there to inform other drivers to be cautious around the oversized load, but they are also there to communicate with the shipment driver about construction zones, accidents, traffic jams, low wires, or other possible hazards that could be ahead.
Have You Considered a Schedule For Your Oversized Load?
While every state has its own regulations, many states only allow oversized loads with travel escorts to be on the road from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset on business days.
This may also require shipments to need specific permits to travel designated routes during certain times.
So, it is essential that you consider the type of schedule your shipment needs to adhere to and develop a timeline based on that information. For the sake of yourself, the client, and your business’s reputation, you don’t want to say one date only to have to say another because of state restrictions.
What Special Markings Does Your Oversized Load Need?
The size of the shipment will determine whether flags or lights are necessary on the trailer or tractor.
For oversized loads, red flags and amber lights are usually required to ensure visibility to other drivers. Travel escorts may also need these same special markings.
Choose the Right Shipper for Your Oversized Load
That was a lot to go through. Fortunately, not every detail needs to be checked off by your team personally. Those you partner with to ship your oversized load will ensure most of these specifics are handled correctly before the freight even leaves the platform.
It is up to you to find a shipper you can trust. That is where connecting with a trustworthy freight broker can be beneficial. With a reputable freight broker, you can ensure that everything, from pickup to delivery, is handled with care and in accordance with the right legalities.
A freight broker, like NET, will have connections with trusted shippers and carriers who are well-equipped to handle oversized loads and can take on your shipment with no issues.
If you have further questions or are seeking a shipper to handle your oversized load, please contact the team at Nationwide Equipment Transportation.