Abnormal load transport is a specialist haulage service for unusually long, wide and/or heavy loads. We’ll look at the full definition in more detail below.
There are certain risks associated with abnormal load transport. Some of these are a matter of convenience, such as other road users being unable to overtake slow-moving wide load transport.
Some are related to the safety and condition of the road itself. For example, a heavy load may put excess pressure on the road, with the risk of breaking through into a void hidden beneath the surface.
For all of these reasons, abnormal load permits may be required before you can legally move a wide or heavy load, and you may need to notify the police and highway authorities.
What is abnormal load transport?
Abnormal load transport rules apply to road haulage that meets the following criteria:
- Over 44,000 kg in weight
- Axle load over 10,000 kg for a single non-driving axle
- Axle load over 11,500 kg for a single driving axle
- Over 2.9 metres in width
- Over 18.65 metres in rigid length
If any one of the above criteria applies to your shipment, you should notify the relevant authorities.
While it’s not a listed criterion, you should also take care when transporting unusually tall loads, taking into account any low bridges along the planned route.
Why abnormal loads matter
Planning for abnormal loads is primarily about ensuring the safety of fellow road users. This includes the issues mentioned above, such as damage to the road surface and the ability to safely overtake a slow-moving abnormal load.
It’s also a practical consideration. With careful planning in advance, you can avoid any potential obstacles like low bridges and narrow roads, ensuring that your cargo reaches its destination in one piece and without delays.
Abnormal load permits and why they are needed
Abnormal load permits are sometimes needed before you can legally transport an abnormal load on a public highway. A specialist haulage company should be able to obtain the relevant permits on your behalf.
In practical terms, permits give you the paperwork you need to prove that you notified all of the relevant authorities. You should obtain any permits that are required and keep them in a safe place, just in case you are asked to present them at a later date.
Specialist haulage: What it involves
Specialist haulage includes the transport of abnormal loads, usually using special vehicles and equipment capable of carrying very large or heavy items.
Specialist haulage providers
An experienced specialist haulage provider can offer expertise ranging from permits and paperwork, to route planning that avoids real-world obstacles, to providing all of the vehicles and equipment needed to get your cargo to its destination.
Equipment and vehicles
Loading large and heavy items onto trucks is a challenge in itself. Specialist haulage providers have low loaders and beavertail trucks, crane vehicles and other lifting equipment that can safely load and unload very large objects, without damage to the cargo or surroundings.
Escort vehicles and support services
Escort vehicles are an essential safety feature in wide load transport. Outriders with high-visibility vehicles help to alert other road users to the abnormal load, ensuring that they overtake safely, at good distance and at a sensible speed.
Cost factors and budgeting for abnormal load transport
The total cost of transporting an abnormal load depends on a number of factors, including:
- Overall size (including weight) of the load
- Total distance from pickup to delivery
- Current fuel cost (heavier loads use more fuel)
- Vehicles and equipment (including escort vehicles)
- Cost of abnormal load permits
When comparing quotes, make sure that you are comparing the full cost, including any fuel and permits, so that you can budget correctly for the service.
How to choose the right haulage company
When choosing an abnormal load haulage company, don’t just compare the upfront prices you are quoted. Make sure that the quote includes all additional costs as mentioned above, so you can make a fair comparison.
You should also take into account the haulage company’s experience with abnormal loads. Due to the nature of very large, heavy cargo, any unexpected problems can be costly to put right – so choose a road haulage firm with a proven track record in this area.
What to look for in experience & service
At Chris Bennett (Heavy Haulage) Ltd we offer case studies that prove our past experience working with abnormal loads, as well as details of all the vehicles in our fleet.
We provide any necessary escort vehicles, with experienced drivers, in full compliance with the relevant regulations for UK public highways.
Our proud 60-year history demonstrates our unwavering commitment to our clients and the unbeatable depth of our expertise.
To find out more about our abnormal load transport services, or to request a quote for your abnormal load, contact us today.