One of the most challenging types of transportation service is shipping over-dimensional freight. It requires a vast knowledge of how the industry works and the ability to interconnect all the moving parts to ensure safe and on-time delivery.
What to consider during over dimensional freight shipping?
Understand the legal weight limits
In general terms, in the U.S., over-dimensional loads are wider than 8’6’’. But these numbers may change depending on the State the load is passing through. This is one of the main reasons why transporting over-dimensional loads is more complicated.
Standard dimensions for oversized loads you should consider
Width: 8.5 feet
Height: 8.5 feet
Length: 48 to 53 feet
Weight: Around 46,000 pounds
Set realistic schedules
Even if you plan everything out correctly, certain elements aren’t under your control, which could delay your delivery. One of them is the weather, for instance. Another aspect is the road conditions and traffic conditions.
When transporting over-dimensional freight, there are certain restrictions you must consider, like only shipping these types of loads from Monday to Friday, and the weekend would be off-limits. In some States, drivers can only be on the road half an hour before sunrise and half an hour after sunset, which could also impact your schedules.
With all this in mind, you should be able to create a timeline that considers those elements and ensures you’ll be able to meet the delivery date and time.
Conduct route surveys
One of the best ways to ensure you correctly plan your transportation process is to conduct route surveys. This allows you to know your truck’s route and the possible obstacles you may encounter. With this in mind, you’ll be able to create a more accurate timeline or change routes for more efficiency.
Consider additional costs
When transporting over-dimensional freight, you’ll have to incur additional costs, which must be communicated and managed transparently from the beginning of the process.
Additional costs
- Special permits
- Fuel consumption
- Safety services
- Over dimensional surcharges
Work with an experienced partner
Transporting over-dimensional freight is complicated. But everything is more straightforward when you have a reliable partner that understands the industry and has many years of experience transporting oversized freight.
With Logistics Group International, you’ll work with a company that’s specialized in over-dimensional transportation and has a vast carrier network that will help you deliver your freight on time.
