Every flatbed carrier in Canada has been approached at some point to transport an oversized load. Most are happy to do so, because it’s both a challenge to the expertise of the company and a potentially higher compensation. Ultimately, it has to be done properly, which is why it’s important to consider the track record of all heavy machinery transport companies.
What Are the Factors Affecting Heavy Haul Transport?
Oversized load trucking companies know that such loads require a significantly higher standard of care given the accommodations that must be made and the heightened safety protocols that must be followed. An oversized load could be an irregular size, with dimensions that result in a portion of the load hanging over the edge of the preferred carrier (in most cases, a flatbed). There are many factors that affect planning when transporting such loads.
- Oversized loads that are being transported inter-provincially or even across multiple municipalities are governed by the rules in place in each jurisdiction. That means a 3PL provider coordinating the heavy haul transport must be fully aware of those rules to ensure compliance along the entire route. That could mean securing different permits that detail the steps to be taken during transport. Multiple factors have to be considered, including the weight, length, and height of the load. Strick adherence to the guidelines must be followed or risk being fined.
- Safety is obviously of paramount concern for oversize load trucking companies responsible for moving such loads along public roadways. The fact these loads are often mingling with commuter transport means there is no room for error. Avoiding disaster on a public highway while hauling huge loads requires a heightened level of expertise. Securing escorts (police or industry reps), mapping out a safe route, and hiring the right carrier are all part of the process involved.
- It’s important to know the numbers that govern the movement of oversized loads. In Ontario, a truck is legally allowed to load 12,000 pounds on the steering axle, 39,600 pounds on the tandem axle, and 59,400 pounds on the tridem axle. Any higher derivation from those numbers means the company runs the risk of being held to task by the ministry.
- The threshold for requiring an escort vehicle varies from province to province. That means anyone carrying an oversize load has to be aware if their load is in compliance upon crossing. Any violation discovered could jeopardize your ability to deliver on time.
Work with NATS Canada to Ensure Safe Transport of Oversized Loads
It’s good to know when you need a permit and when you don’t. In Canada you can ship loads that are 80,000 pounds gross without a permit. Working with an experienced 3PL like NATS Canada ensures the load will always be incompliance and have the proper permits. Safety is our major concern when it comes to such shipping responsibilities.