Many of us don't realize how important trucking is to our economy. According to truckinfo.net, 70% of all freight transported annually in the U.S. depends on trucks, accounting for $671 billion worth of goods each year. But what about oversized goods? These loads will require heavy haulers. Keep reading to learn about heavy-haul trucking.

What is Heavy-Haul Trucking?

In trucking, the term heavy haulers refers to an oversized load, is a wide load, or is heavy equipment. Since heavy haulers have these types of loads, they typically need special routing and escorts to safely transport.

What Loads Require Heavy Haulers?

Any load that is more than the regulated legal limit is considered a heavy load and will require a heavy hauler. This does vary state to state but typically a heavy load is more than 8.5 feet in width, taller than 13.6 feet in height, longer than 53 feet, or is over 80,000 pounds. For example, transporting a typical mobile home will require heavy haulers.

Examples of Heavy Loads

Since heavy trucking companies have specialized trailers and vehicles, there are a lot of things they can transport. Heavy-duty mining equipment, military equipment, wind turbines, and airplane parts are all heavy loads requiring heavy haulers.

Heavy Haulers Require Permits

Due to the dangers of an oversized or overweight load, heavy hauling companies need to obtain a permit before they are legally allowed to move a heavy haul load. Depending on the load, there may be restrictions on the time or route.

Additional Requirements

After obtaining the appropriate permit, heavy hauling companies may also need to adhere to multiple safety components. These can include guide cars, safety flags, flashing lights, or banners. While each job may not require all five components, usually at least one will be required.

Heavy-haul trucking is vital to our economy, and it is not an easy job. Heavy trucking services work hard to be able to deliver billions of dollars worth of goods each year to keep our economy running. When you see heavy haulers out on the road give them plenty of space so they can complete their jobs safely.