Heavy haul trucking services allow you to transport your heavy and massive cargo. It is a special type of transportation service that offers overweight or oversized shipping of equipment and other types of cargo. So, if you need to ship cargo that exceeds the standard size and weight allowed, then your only option is heavy haul trucking services.
Simply put, heavy haul trucking is responsible for moving huge equipment or materials that cannot be loaded and transported by a standard trailer and truck. This can comprise almost anything, from industrial machineries, like transformers or turbines to construction equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, and others.
Moving huge cargo wouldn’t be possible without those strong frames and powerful engines, which allow these trailers to travel safely even in long distances. Additionally, these heavy haul trucks are equipped with numerous axles for more stability and excellent weight distribution.
Different Types of Heavy Haul Trucks
When it comes to heavy haul trucking, it is crucial to choose the appropriate type of truck. These special types of vehicles are specifically designed to manage oversized cargo having extensive weight and size. The following are some of the popular types of heavy haul trucks utilized for this purpose:
- Flatbed Trailers – These trailers have an open platform, making it easier and quicker to load and move huge, heavy objects while securing and strapping them down. These trailers are so flexible that they can handle different types of loads.
- Lowboy Trailers – The low bed height of lowboys is perfect for easy, fast loading and unloading of oversized or lengthy loads. Oftentimes, they come with numerous axles for even distribution of weight.
- Step Decks – The low deck height of step decks can be advantageous. Also referred to as deck trailers, they are the perfect option for moving taller cargo while ensuring stability.
- Multi-Axle Configurations – Additional axles might be required in heavy haul trucks to enhance its weight distribution and load capacity while traveling down the road.
- Extendable Trailers – These trailers are ideal for extensively long cargo, like steel beams and turbine blades, since they can be extended, just as the name says.
- Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailers – RGN trailers can be used to easily load and unload heavy equipment.
- Perimeter Frame Trailers – This type of trailer is the best option for loads that are extremely long or wide since its frame goes beyond the parameter.
- Platform Trailers – Platform trailers often come with several axles since they are specifically created for loading heavy and massive objects. To guarantee that the heavy weight of the load is equally distributed, a lot of axles should be used.
- Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs) – This special type of vehicle has several axles that you can adjust individually, which is why it is called self-propelled. These vehicles are an excellent choice for moving huge and exceptionally heavy objects.
- Power-Only Units – The main purpose of these power-only units is to move specialized trailers.
Keep in mind that each of these types of heavy haul trucks has its own advantages and purposes. That is why your decision will likely depend on the cargo that you’ll be transporting. Hence, you should work with heavy haul trucking companies that are well-experienced in this field and know what the available options for you are. In this way, they can give you some recommendations when it comes to the most suitable vehicle for your cargo.
Permits and Regulations Needed for Heavy Haul Trucking
Heavy haul trucking companies are aware that there are permits and regulations that they need to comply with. To guarantee the safety of your oversized loads while it’s traveling on the road, you will need to secure special permits for them.
When it comes to heavy haul trucking, regulations may vary from one state to another. Usually, these regulations will include the required safety equipment, height restrictions, axle configurations, and maximum weight limits. It is important that carriers and drivers be aware of these rules before they start with their heavy haul journey.
Apart from state regulations, there are also federal laws that need to be followed. The operation of interstate commercial vehicles is being managed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). They’re the ones who set the standards for heavy-haul trucking companies. This comprises the vehicle maintenance protocols, hours-of-service restrictions, as well as driver qualification requirements.
Acquiring permits is something that you should not skip. These special permits allow oversized loads to be exempted from the standard road restrictions. To know the specific routes to be followed, it is important to have special permits. Keep in mind that these routes consider several factors such as clearance heights and bridge capacities.
Acquiring these essential permits can be a challenging task since you need to coordinate with different authorities, such as the state departments of transportation, and local municipalities, among others. You need to carefully plan everything to make sure that you have adhered to all regulatory requirements.
Risks and Difficulties Associated with Heavy Haul Trucking
Heavy haul trucking does not come easy since it comes with some risks and difficulties. When transporting overweight, oversized, and odd-shaped items, it should be properly planned and executed. Most likely, one of the biggest difficulties is going through underpasses, bridges, and narrow roads that are not specifically designed for huge loads.
Another great challenge is compliance with regulations, especially when it comes to route restrictions, permits, and weight limits. Take note that the rules vary in every state, making the process more complicated. In case you fail to comply with these regulations, it could cause delays or even fines.
Furthermore, there is also a high risk of accidents that could occur while moving oversized items. For example, maneuvering heavy haul truck while driving through traffic can be challenging especially since you are carrying a heavy load. It is important that the driver must be well-experienced and possess the necessary skills. Drivers must be careful all the time to avoid serious implications.
Another risk that heavy haul trucking must confront is the weather conditions. Driving in harsh weather conditions, such as snowstorms or rainstorms can be dangerous and could likely result in cargo damage or road accidents.
Safety Precautions for Heavy Haul Truck Drivers
Safety is one of the most important things when it comes to heavy haul trucking. Driving on the road while carrying oversized and overweight loads can be very challenging. That is why drivers must observe safety protocols and precautions.
To be able to handle this enormous cargo, heavy-haul truck drivers must be properly trained. Drivers must conduct regular inspections before starting their heavy haul journey. Another important factor is planning for the route. While driving, drivers must maintain a safe speed. Communication is important. Drivers must regularly communicate with their dispatchers in case there are any issues.
Van Raden Industries LLC is an expert in heavy-haul trucking vehicles. We also manufacture and repair heavy hauling trailers. For more information about our products and services, you can call us at 800-522-0099 / 360-314-4965 or send us a message at wvanraden@aol.com.
