Heavy haul trucking simply refers to the transportation of oversized or overweight loads like the military, farming equipment, construction equipment or industrial machinery. Oversized or overweight loads are loads that surpass the standard legal limits for cargo transportation on the road.
The oversized shipments require specialized operation, maximum route planning and diversified permits. This is because these shipments are hard and sometimes impossible to move given their large sizes and weights. It is for these reasons that you need to involve a heavy haul trucking company.
Every state in the United States has its own particular limits and regulations for oversized and overweight loads. There are specific weight limits that any axle can carry according to the federal law. For example, a single axle cannot carry loads exceeding 20,000 pounds.
Before any heavy haul truck moves from one place to another, specific documents and specialized permits are needed. Preferably, the documents and permits are resolved on a ‘per-shipment’ basis which is dependent on a separate shipment basis. In addition, additional documents like route plans and engineering surveys might be required, depending on the type of your shipment. Also, moving items like hazardous materials require their own particular specified permits.
Requirements for Heavy Haul Trucking
● Safety flags
Heavy haul trucks must have red or orange flags normally placed at the heavy load truck’s outermost corners, aimed at assisting drivers and others on the clearance of the road gauge.
● Lights
Traveling at night or in areas with low visibility, lights are needed as a replacement for safety flags.
● Banners
A yellow banner labeled “oversized load” should be placed at the front and back of the truck transporting the heavy load. Occasionally, a “wide load” banner is used instead of the “oversized load” one.
Importance of Heavy Haul Trucking Companies
● Providence of proper equipment for hauling
We can all agree that using improper equipment for shipping heavy loads can lead to accidents. The resulting accident can lead to unwanted delays, equipment and load damage as well as legal liabilities. Involving a dependable and competent heavy hauling company minimizes the chances of a negative outcome and assures you a safe and timely transport.
● Hassle-free process of shipping
Famous heavy hauling companies will help you attain all legal permits you might need to move your shipment. They also handle all documentation and paperwork. This ensures that as you wait to have a confirmation of successful delivery, you can continue with your normal routine.
● Timely delivery
Having a reliable heavy haul trucking company by your side gives you assurance that your goods will get to you within the required time. This is because the company has professional drivers who understand the best roads to use.
Heavy Haul Trucking Companies
While you search for a heavy haul trucking company suitable for you or your business, it is important that you select the best one. This helps you avoid unnecessary issues such as equipment damage and delayed delivery.
However, it can be hard for you to find the best heavy haul trucking companies alone. Lucky for you, we have picked out some of the best heavy haul trucking companies in the United States for you. Reviewing the list will guide you to find the best company for your heavy transportation needs.
Melton Truck Lines
This company was established in 1954 and it operates over North America. Melton Truck Lines has headquarters in five United States and consists of an extremely sophisticated fleet which include 1,400 trucks as well as trailers. The company is one of the biggest and most experienced flatbed carriers in North America. Besides providing heavy haul trucking services, they also offer several other solutions.
Maverick USA
The company offers marine, glass and dedicated transportation in addition to heavy hauling services. If you are in need of fast and reliable hauling services, the Maverick is a good option.
Transport Investment, Inc.
TII is among the ten biggest flatbed carriers in the U.S. The company manages various smaller companies, which are combined to form a network of carriers nationwide. This helps them become one of the best companies offering heavy loads transportation services.
TMC Transportation
Apparently, this company is the only company in this list that’s employee-owned. This company’s structure is one of the reasons that TMC provides perfect customer service at a discount.
Mercer Transportation
Mercer Transportation offers heavy haul services in the whole of North America. The company depends on independent contractors to support its extensive network of customers.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, you might need to involve heavy haul trucking companies if the shipment you are moving is heavy equipment or a wide load. However before you move the shipment, you require specific documents approved by the federal government depending on the type of shipment to be transported.
This article has provided you with a list of the five most popular heavy haul trucking companies. This helps you avoid unnecessary hassle when choosing the most appropriate company for your needs.
