Transporting oversize loads is a risky operation that involves specialized training and equipment. It’s also important to make sure that loads meet local regulations. Wide load permits are typically necessary for large loads like industrial equipment and cargo. Some overlength loads require additional permits. In some instances, civilian or police escorts are needed. You must follow safety procedures to ensure a trouble-free delivery.
If you’re preparing to transport an oversize load, then you should know what constitutes such a load, what permits you will need, and how to get them.
What is an Oversize Load?
An oversize load exceeds the standard length, width, or height dimensions of a particular state or country. Since these measurements vary, it’s highly recommended to research the regulations of the area where loads are to be delivered.
An overlength load surpasses the standard length, but not necessarily the width or height dimensions. It’s still recommended to view local regulations in regards to overlength loads.
What Oversize Load Permits Are Needed?
Since laws can vary from state to state, it’s a little confusing to know what permits are needed. The Federal government does not issue permits for oversize or overweight vehicles, leaving permit issuance and guidelines to each state.
The Federal government does enforce maximum weights:
80,000 pounds gross weight
20,000 pound single axle weight
34,000 pound tandem axle weight
What Are Some Examples of State Regulations?
The United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration’s website has a list of all state and Canadian permit contacts. Each site provides information regarding that area’s regulations and how to obtain permits. You can search online for information on how to contact each state’s permitting office.
There are different regulations in Florida and Texas, for example. Florida classifies an oversize load as one that has a height of 13 feet and 6 inches with a weight of 21,000 lbs. Texas classifies one as being 14 feet with a weight of 20,000 lbs.
Permit fees also differ among the states. Florida’s fuel permit is $45. Their trip permit starts at $5. Texas’ fuel permit is $50 and their trip permit starts at $25.
Processing and escort fees can add to permit costs. Prepared drivers who research these expenses before delivery can make suitable allowances. Most permits can be purchased online with minimal personal interaction. States issuing permits electronically typically need a credit card to process the transaction.
Why Do Overlength Loads Often Require Permits?
Permits authorize the permit holder to act. Heavy load permits allow drivers to transport loads that exceed a certain size. Such transportation carries an amount of risk. Permits let skilled drivers do their job. They also make sure that drivers adhere to regulations to maintain a safety standard.
What Happens If I Don’t Follow Heavy Load Regulations?
Drivers who don’t follow load regulations, especially in regards to weight limits, can be fined. As with permitting and guidelines, fines also differ by state. In Florida, if the weight of a vehicle is in excess of 200 lbs or less, a $10 fine can be incurred. In Texas, a similar fine starts at $100.
What If I Don’t Have a Permit?
Not having the proper oversize overweight permits demonstrates a disregard for safety and the law. Some vehicles will not be allowed to move without a valid permit. In other instances, you can face fines.
It’s also important to have the correct permit for a load. Without the right one, drivers can’t legally travel on certain roads. Also of note is that multiple permits might be required if traveling through several states.
Lacking the right oversize overweight load permit can delay delivery and cost additional time and money. Being prepared can expedite transportation. Make sure you know the permit process in your location, including the rules for special permits.
How Does Permitting Make Utility Hauling a Challenge?
Utility pole hauling in itself requires skill and attention to safety. Transporting poles across the country compounds the challenge. Logistics have to be worked out. Routes have to be planned. Not every oversize load transport vehicle can travel down every road. Anything from having a low-hanging bridge to narrow lanes can result in severe accidents, injuries, and damage to the cargo.
Crossing state lines means several permits must be obtained. Buying numerous permits can take time. Getting the wrong ones can add more time to that total. What seems like a relatively simple job on the outside can be complicated.
Who Can I Hire to Transport Utility Poles?
Permits don’t transport overlength loads. They simply allow such loads to be taken to destinations across the country. People do the work. Utility pole transporting demands specific skills and equipment. Maintaining safety protocols is crucial to keep drivers and other people safe from harm. Hiring a company can help guarantee secure and legal transport and delivery of cargo of any size or weight.
Blackwood Resources is a trusted partner in the utility industry. We can manage the transportation needs for staging new utility poles at operation centers across the United States.
Electrical utilities must continue to meet consumers’ expectations. Therefore, it’s paramount that the infrastructure is kept current to minimize service disruptions. Blackwood Resources can quickly adapt to the formidable market while focusing on its customers. Their qualified employees operate high-end specialty equipment to see each job through to a successful finish.
Blackwood Resources has the capacity for transporting materials up to 90 feet long. The company’s organized project managers and professional operators can complete transportation and distribution, making the process look easy.
If you’re preparing to transport an oversize load and want to let someone else handle the logistics and permitting of the move, then contact Blackwood Resources today.
