Oversized loads involve moving freight that is over the standard legal size or the weight limit on public roads. Often, this type of transporting requires special equipment, permits and safety protocols to prevent damage or accidents. As a third-party logistics company, we specialize in risk management for overweight and over-dimensional shipments, including throughout pre-trip planning, extensive knowledge of protocols and permitting, and hiring experienced drivers to run our fleets.
Below are some of the key ways we aim to prevent damage or accidents when transporting oversized loads.
Route & Pre-Trip Planning
One of the key ways to mitigate risk is to plan ahead. Before we move an oversized load, we start with detailed route evaluations that include outlining weight limits on bridges and road surfaces, checking road width, traffic volume and turn radii, and making ourselves aware of construction zones or other temporary road conditions. This information is gathered through DOT resources, mapping and real-time traffic data. We also monitor weather and performance equipment inspections prior to our trips.
Risk Assessment
To manage risk, you have to identify, assess and reduce it. We do this by going through a host of safety protocols before any big trip. Our risk assessment process varies by job, but it often includes the following:
- Identifying hazards and assessing their impact
- Crafting contingency plans
- Reviewing and updating our protocols
- Keep accurate records of each trip – the good, the bad and the ugly
Permitting & Compliance
In order to transport oversized or over-dimensional shipments, we must first acquire permits from the state or states we will be traveling through. To ensure on-time shipment and delivery, we acquire the permits ahead of time to avoid delays or penalties. This is especially important when transporting across multiple states. Permitting varies across states, which is another reason why working with a third-party logistics company like Wright is helpful – we have knowledgeable employees across the U.S. who are well acquainted with permitting and compliance in all 49 continental states in the US and Alaska.
Hiring & Training
Lastly, hiring skilled drivers is a crucial part of this process. We only hire and train drivers who understand the difference between a normal and oversized vehicle, who know how to respond to emergency situations swiftly and safely, and who adhere to our protocols, permitting and compliance processes. We also offer training for oversized load management at various times throughout the year.
