Not all cargo should be shipped in a standard container. When your load is oversized, hazardous, or fragile, using the right equipment can ensure that it reaches its destination without damage. C&M Transport deploys specialized equipment and trailers to accommodate oversized load trucking. With us, learn more about the benefits of using this equipment for large or heavy loads.
What Is Oversized Load Trucking?
Oversized loads are defined as any load that exceeds the legal limits for size and weight. These limits are set by the state and may vary between locations. In most areas, however, these limits are:
- 5 feet wide
- 5 feet tall
- 48 feet long
- 46,000 pounds in gross vehicle weight
Strict regulations are in place to govern how these loads are transported. These may require a permit in addition to signs, flashing lights, and flags to alert other drivers to the presence of oversized cargo. They also require specialized equipment. Items of this size will not fit into the container of a standard semi. Even if they can be made to fit, you risk causing damage to the truck or to your cargo.
Types of Specialized Equipment
Fortunately, a variety of specialized truck beds and trailers exist to accommodate large or heavy loads. At C&M Transport, we frequently deploy the following specialized trailer types:
- Flatbed trailer: This type features a flat body with no sides or roof. They are ideal for carrying large, heavy loads that will not be affected by inclement weather.
- Curtain-side trailer: This type replaces the long side walls with sturdy canvas curtains. The curtains protect cargo against the weather and can be opened for easy loading.
- Drop deck trailer: This type drops down lower than a regular straight floor flatbed, allowing it to carry taller loads without risking damage.
- Step deck trailer: This type resembles a flatbed truck with two sections at different heights. This enables it to transport a variety of items of different sizes.
- Lowboy trailer:Similar to a drop deck trailer, this type features two separate drops. It rides extremely low to the ground to accommodate loads up to 12 feet high.
Why Use Specialized Equipment?
Specialized trailers aren’t just for compliance; they also offer valuable advantages. Choosing the right equipment enables the most efficient loading, reducing the number of vehicles needed to transport your cargo. It also improves safety by minimizing the risk of accidents that may damage the cargo. Fewer accidents also mean fewer delays, making sure your expedited cargo reaches its destination on time.
For these reasons, it’s important to partner with a carrier that has specialized equipment at its disposal. Prioritize this service type if your company ships any of these common oversized loads:
- Vehicles, including tractors, motor homes, and yachts
- Industrial equipment, such as boilers, turbines, and generators
- Heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, cranes, and backhoes
- Construction materials, including large beams and girders
- Prefabricated homes
Even if your business does not commonly ship oversized items, it may still be beneficial to partner with a carrier that has specialized equipment at its disposal. This equipment may be useful if you ever need to make an unusual shipment that would qualify as oversized. It is also helpful if you ever expand your product lines into larger items. When you do, you’ll be able to keep your existing partnership instead of searching for a new carrier.
Ship Oversized Loads with C&M Transport
If you are looking for a carrier to meet your oversized load trucking needs, consider partnering with C&M Transport. Headquartered in the Cleveland, Ohio area, we have 17 locations across the nation from which we can deploy a variety of specialized equipment. Our owners are former drivers with the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate oversized load regulations. Contact us to learn more or to request a quote.