Oversize Loads vs Superloads: Understanding the Key Differences
While most shipments fall into the confines of standard containers and regulations, there are plenty of larger shipments that require various levels of specialization. From alternate containers to vehicles to permits, oversized loads can be a real hassle if you don’t know the best way to tackle the project.
On top of that, not all oversized loads are created equal. The general rule of thumb for an oversized load is anything that exceeds 8.5 feet wide, 13.5 feet high, 53 feet long, or 80,000 pounds. But did you know there’s another type of load larger than that? A superload is a specific type of oversized load that generally exceeds 16 feet wide, 160 feet long, 16 feet tall, and 200,000 pounds. A superload shipment comes with its own set of challenges and regulations. In this post, we’ll explore the differences between oversized loads and superloads, and what specific requirements need to be met when dealing with a superload.
Differences between oversized and superloads
As mentioned above, both types of shipment fall outside the parameters of a normal transport. They both exceed standard size requirements, but superloads exceed these limits by a much larger margin. Due to their size being only slightly above legal limits, oversize loads generally only need smaller adjustments compared to standard transport methods. This could involve getting escort cars, using a specialized container, or acquiring a special permit.
Superloads, however, are so far beyond legal limits that they require much more meticulous planning. One of the biggest logistical issues with superloads is the need for specialized equipment. This involves everything from specialized containers for the product to the potential for specific types of vehicles to accommodate the sheer size of the shipment. Superloads also require a permit to haul, but these permits typically take much longer to get approved than permits for oversized loads. Because of the sheer size and complications that come with a superload, the permit requires an extensive review process.
The permit process can be especially confusing for anyone not familiar with this type of project. Due to the size and complexity of the load, many states require multiple permits and inspections before approval. In New York, for example, each county must issue a permit allowing the vehicles to transport the load on their roads. Once each country has approved and issued permits, then the state also has to approve its own permit for the shipment. On top of this, states have different regulations and restrictions when dealing with superloads, so if the shipment is crossing state lines a new permit will have to be issued to each state.
Other requirements could include engineering surveys or a bridge analysis. Most cities and counties want to ensure they have the infrastructure to stand up to such a large load traveling on their streets or bridges. The bridge analysis is crucial in any area with older bridges that may not be able to sustain heavy weights traversing them.
Superload hauling also requires advanced route planning to ensure safe and legal passage of the shipment. Meticulous planning and research are a necessity to avoid low bridges, narrow roads, or other obstacles that a shipment of this size wouldn’t be able to clear. Successful planning can help save time and avoid any potential hazards or extra delays during travel.
Like an oversized load, a superload will also require escort cars to navigate the route and keep other motorists safe along the route. Other traffic control measures may be used but aren’t always necessary.
Given all the required steps and planning, having a seasoned logistics expert at your side can take a lot of stress out of moving a load of this size. They can handle the planning for you and can save you from having to research the regulations and requirements for each county or state your load is navigating through.
If you have an oversized or superload you need assistance with, contact Scarbrough today. Our team of experts are adept at handling a variety of shipments that fall outside of normal shipping parameters. Let us take care of your shipment every step of the way.
