Heavy Haulers Daily Blog

Oversize CAT wheel loader on a super load trailer for transport

Everything You Need To Know About Superload Trailers

Superload transport is an activity that presents a variety of unique challenges that even the most experienced haulers may not have dealt with before. Superload trailer transport towing is an activity best left to professionals that relish problem-solving, and those who have a lot of experience handling awkward, oversize, and distinctive cargo.

Superloads can be classified as such based on any number of the following criteria:

• Exceeding oversized length
• Exceeding oversized height
• Exceeding oversized width
• Exceeding oversized weight

What are Superload Trailers Used For?

Construction equipment, especially, is well suited to step deck trailer shipping methods, as even the most awkwardly shaped machinery can often safely fit onto the trailer, and multiple different types can be shipped in tandem.

Details for a Succesful Superload Shipment

State approval for superload transport is a crucial consideration when hauling an excessive load, and the process may involve multiple components. Depending on the planned route, route and engineering surveys may need to be done, and a bridge analysis might also be required. In some cases, you may even discover that utility companies need to be notified and will be involved in the process too!

Permits Necessary for Superload Shipping

Superload trailer shipping definitions vary by state, and when you’re crossing state borders, you need to be extra careful that the superload trailer haul meets the requirements of both states. For example, superload cargo in New York is defined as a shipment that weighs over 200,000lbs. However, across the border in Massachusetts, a superload is classified as anything weighing over 130,000lbs. Since these two states share a border, it’s essential to consider the weight of your shipment when crossing state lines. You may inadvertently need a superload permit for heavy equipment, even if it doesn’t classify as a superload in your shipment’s originating state. Whether you need a superload trailer shipping permit or an oversized equipment permit depends on your state’s DOT regulations. For superload trailer shipping, you’ll need to apply for a permit if your cargo exceeds the regular oversized shipping dimensions.

Superload deliveries can have an adverse effect on traffic and road conditions during the length of their journey. Traffic control measures may need to be put in place, and there may be overhead obstacles that are required to be moved out of the superload trailer’s path. Superload trailer haulage can be restricted to specific lanes, and escort vehicles will also take up space on the roads. Railroad crossing schedules and ground clearance will need to be adhered to, and emergency vehicle navigation might also be affected.

Getting Your Superload Permit Approved

Compared to oversized transport permits, superload trailer permits can take longer to obtain, so you need to sufficiently plan ahead when looking to move extremely oversized equipment, machinery, and materials.

Superload trailer shipping permits can have a lead time as little as two weeks or as long as several months. The time frame varies by state, and it also varies depending upon the complexity of your shipment.

Superload Trailer Transport on the Road

Superload deliveries can have an adverse effect on traffic and road conditions during the length of their journey. Traffic control measures may need to be put in place, and there may be overhead obstacles that are required to be moved out of the superload trailer’s path. Superload trailer haulage can be restricted to specific lanes, and escort vehicles will also take up space on the roads. Railroad crossing schedules and ground clearance will need to be adhered to, and emergency vehicle navigation might also be affected.

Get Your Superload Quote Now!

Step 1: Fill Out Quote Form

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Step 2: Speak With An Agent

We’ll pick up your heavy equipment or vehicle.

Step 3: Get Transported On Time

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