Sometimes, our customers think they have an oversize load when they don’t. And sometimes, they have an oversize load and they aren’t aware of it. If you’re unsure about whether or not you have an oversize load, Magnet Transport Group is here to help. We’re experts when it comes to understanding the complex state laws and permitting required for transporting non-standard and specialized freight, and we’re happy to share our knowledge with you.
What is an Oversize Load?
Oversize loads, or wide loads, are any freight or cargo exceeding the maximum length, width and height allowed by law, which varies from state to state, and sometimes even by city or county. In most states, any cargo that exceeds the standard width of 8.5 feet, the standard height of 13.5 feet, or exceeds the permissible legal tractor and trailer length of 72 feet, is considered an oversize load.
Examples of Oversize Load Cargo
- Pre-fabricated wall panels
- Roof trusses
- Heavy equipment, including cranes and bulldozers
- Culvert pipes
- Shipping crates with industrial machinery
- Cable reels and drums for power projects
- Fiberglass and aluminum swimming pools
- Freight containers
Oversize Load Permitting & Pilot Cars
Each state has slightly different legal limits for oversize loads and permitting, so you’ll need to contact your state’s Department of Transportation to inquire about the necessary permits and regulations, or work with a trucking company like Magnet Transport who handles the permitting and pilot cars for you.
Most states allow cargo up to 12 feet wide to run under a “blanket” permit, or an inexpensive trip permit. Shipments 12-14 feet wide may require special permitting and one or two pilot vehicles in the front and/or back of the transport. For shipments over 14 feet wide, many states require one or two police escorts in addition to pilot cars, which can get expensive and logistically challenging when crossing multiple state lines.
Oversize Load Route Restrictions
When transporting an oversize load, routes must be carefully planned to consider power lines, bridges and other low-clearance areas, as well as state routing restrictions and timelines for travel, which is why it’s so important to partner with a trucking company that specializes in oversize load hauling.
In most states, freight up to 12 feet wide can follow normal routing. However, loads over 12 feet wide usually have routing and travel time restrictions. For instance, some states only allow oversize load transport on weekdays during daylight hours (30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset).
Oversize & Wide Load Trucking Services in Albany, NY
If you’re unsure if you need oversize load trucking, Magnet Transport Group is always available to answer your questions. We’re also happy to discuss how a load can be engineered to minimize the need for oversize trucking services.
We offer oversize load hauling anywhere in the U.S. upon request, and provide daily oversize and wide load trucking services across the East Coast, including New York, New Jersey, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia and Virginia.
For daily oversize and wide load trucking in Albany, NY, or anywhere in our service area, give us a call at (518) 769-0205 or contact us online for a quote.
