The next step, once it has been determined that a cargo exceeds the legal height limit, is to apply for an oversized permit from the participating States. The authorisation procedure may require a route study including the measurement of obstacles – bridges, viaducts, signs, supply lines, etc. along the proposed route. This ensures that the cargo can be transported safely. Or it can show that an alternative route is needed. While this can be time-consuming, it is much better and less expensive than the potential consequences of hitting an overpass or overhead lines. Before travel, check the total amount of your cargo. The height restrictions for low-loaders are higher than the limits of a graduated deck trailer. Therefore, choosing a stair deck trailer can be a good option if you need to accommodate large goods under the bridges.
Most highway bridges have a sign that tells drivers the height, but some bridges may have a unique shape that affects that height at the edges. As seen in the photo above, the median deck clearance provides generous space for most trailers, but the edges are well below the average height of 13 feet 6 inches. Loads that exceed both the maximum height and maximum width of the trailer may also incur other costs. There are federal regulations regarding width and weight that often apply to heavy cargo. The safety and protection of motorists and public property are the main reasons why regulations have been established for the length, width, height and maximum weight of vehicles. Therefore, states may have unique regulations for road clearance, which may vary depending on the region through which a state highway passes. For example, check out the California State Route elevation clearances for different roads below. They go as low as 13 feet 4 inches and as high as 14 feet. Oversized loads are probably the most problematic oversized loads, as they require the most planning and preparation.
and may be the most costly in terms of fees and costs to ensure the safe transportation of cargo. On the basis of the information in Table 1, it is obvious that it is very difficult to estimate in advance the cost of problematic overhead transport. The safest approach is to formulate the requirements to the client and indicate the price of transportation plus the cost of services provided by utilities, police security officers, etc. Nevertheless, the total costs are much lower than the costs of damages, fines and lawsuits that automatically follow an air strike. State fee for authorization to transport the load. The price of permits can vary greatly depending on the actual amount and vary greatly from state to state. For more information on maximum load limits, please refer to the regulation. Find out what an itinerary measure is. The maximum length allowed on roads, motorways and motorways. Maximum permissible load sizes. Multi-state and regional permits. If the height and load of your low-loader are slightly above the legal limits, consider buying or renting a low-deck trailer.
A drop-down deck trailer can be less than 2 feet tall, while a standard flatbed truck is 5 feet. With this difference, larger shipments have ample additional customs clearance, which can prevent additional permits. A standard based on the dimensions of existing roads was needed to protect all persons operating a motor vehicle on highways, roads and highways. It should be noted that even public property is exposed to a risk of damage. If motorists accidentally encounter one of the many existing obstacles such as guardrails, signs, traffic light poles, etc., the motorist is ultimately liable, if this is not reported, the state is obliged to repair the damage, which is then passed on to taxpayers in the United States and Canada. Thus, maximum widths have been created to protect both human lives and public property. Looking for a drop-down deck trailer for sale? Do you need service or spare parts for your trailer? Do you have questions about height restrictions? Hale Trailer has a knowledgeable team of representatives at each of our 12 trailer rental locations to assist you with all your trailer needs. Oversized loads require the same safety equipment as other oversized loads, including an “OVERLOAD” banner on the truck and all escort vehicles. Travel times can also be limited, either to daylight hours or to hours to avoid normally high traffic periods.
The required permit must include a description of the route and any travel time restrictions. You can check the regulations for oversized loading flags, lights, signs, banners, holiday restrictions, and transit times by state here. The maximum legal length, width, height, and weight allowed to travel, tow or transport on local roads, highways or highways in the United States and Canada are as follows. The cost of all fees and service charges may warrant a review if the burden is not truly indivisible. The cost of dismantling the part may – if possible – be lower than the overheight permit and the cost. The use of special low-boy trailers can also reduce height as some or all of the additional cost factors listed in Table 1 are eliminated. These roads usually have signs indicating the maximum width allowed without obtaining a special travel authorization. You should always inquire about the maximum widths allowed by the governing body of the respective road before driving on it to avoid a fine or worse. In some situations, depending on the width of the vehicle or the size of the shipment, a route survey is required prior to the issuance of a driver`s licence. In 2013, an oversized truck crashed into the overhead struts of the bridge in Washington state because its height had exceeded the allowable height.