Heavy-duty flatbed semi trailers are specialized means of transport for extra-long, extra-wide, extra-high, and extra-heavy cargoes. The trailers are key for carrying heavy cargo. They have unique features. These features improve logistics and ensure safe transport. They are ideal for transporting large machinery, steel structures, containers, and tanks. Moving these oversized goods requires strict adherence to traffic laws. This adherence enhances safety, protects the cargo, and speeds transport. Moreover, efficient transport of heavy cargo contributes significantly to socio-economic development. When choosing the right heavy-duty flatbed semi-trailer, you need to be aware of its specific dimensions and limitations, knowing this information ensures that the transport process is safe and legal, and avoids the potential risks associated with size issues).
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About Oversized Cargo
Definition of oversized cargo
Oversized cargo refers to goods. They are too long, wide, tall, or heavy. A single item exceeds a certain range. They need special measures for transport. The Ministry of Transportation’s ‘Rules for Cargo Transportation by Vehicle’ says that goods are large and special if they are longer than 6tn, wider than 2.5m, taller than 2.7m, and heavier than 4t.
Large special objects can be divided into
1：length greater than or equal to 6m less than 10m; width greater than or equal to 2.5m less than 3.0m; weight greater than or equal to 4t less than 8t.
2： length greater than or equal to 10m less than 14m; width greater than or equal to 3.0m less than 3.5m; height greater than or equal to 2.7m less than 3.0m; weight greater than or equal to 8t less than 20t.
3：length greater than 14m less than 20m; width greater than 3.5m less than 4.5m; height greater than 3m less than 3.8m; weight greater than 20t less than 100t.
4：length greater than 20m less than 30mt width greater than 4.5m less than 5.5m; height greater than 3.8m less than 4.4m; weight greater than 100t less than 200t.
5：length more than 30m less than 40m; width more than 5.5m less than 6m; height more than 4.4m less than 5m; weight more than 200t less than 300t.
6：length over 40m; width over 6m; height over 5m; weight over 300t.
Advantages Of Heavy-Duty Flatbed Semi Trailer
Low platform height: The flatbed semi-trailer’s platform is generally lower. This is good for sturdy support and smooth transport of goods.
Large platform length: The platform of the heavy-duty flatbed semi-trailer is longer than that of the ordinary semi-trailer. It is better for the transport of large goods.
Large platform width: The platform of a heavy-duty flatbed semi-trailer is wider than that of an ordinary semi-trailer. It is better for the transport of large goods.
Large load capacity: Heavy-duty floor semi-trailers can carry more than ordinary ones. They can handle extra-long, extra-wide, extra-high, and extra-heavy goods.
Good flexibility: A flatbed trailer has no fence or top to restrict the cargo. This makes loading and unloading more flexible. So, the flatbed trailer can be easily moved in some cargo transport situations. These are places where the loading and unloading is very complicated. They include construction sites and places for maintaining large machinery and equipment.
Safety Equipment And Measures For The Transport Of Oversized Cargoes
The signs go on big cargo transport vehicles. They follow specific driving rules and road conditions. They often show height and width limits. The following are some common signs that may be required:
reflective road signs: These indicate obstacles ahead and the need to pay attention. You must avoid being overweight or super-high.
safety warning signs: To remind the surrounding traffic participants to pay attention to safety;
high beams: The heavy loads are bulky and heavy. They are at the front of the tractor trailer. Lights need to be very bright to signal the cars on the other side of the road and in the same lane to watch out for large items.
Convoy lights: If you have a fleet of vehicles, you also need command flags. Car radios are also essential!
Escort vehicle: It is a type of vehicle typically used to escort extra-long, extra-heavy loads. When pulling big pipes, an escort vehicle can provide safe support. It helps while the pipe is being transported to ensure that it travels smoothly. Also, escort vehicles often have safety equipment. This includes warning lights and sirens. They alert other vehicles and pedestrians.
Costs Of Transporting Oversized Cargo
Fuel costs: This is usually the biggest expense, taking up more than half of the total cost. The exact fuel consumption depends on the model. It also depends on the distance traveled and the current fuel price.
Vehicle maintenance and repair costs: Vehicles should be maintained and repaired. This is to get many types of materials, accessories, and other repair items.
Insurance premiums: There are two types of goods transport insurance premiums. One is bought for a single transport and can be charged to its cost category. The other is annual booking insurance. It can be treated like liability insurance. It is split monthly and charged to the costs of various items.
Other costs: Other costs are complex. The treatment of the costs is inconsistent. The evidence is as follows: Vehicle license and inspection fees, tolls, escort fees, and accommodation on the way can be charged to all types of transport costs. This can be done according to the payment vouchers. There are also accompanying tools and other low-value consumables.
Summary
Ensuring the safe loading of cargo is the priority in the transportation of oversized cargo. We distribute cargo fairly based on their size and weight. This keeps the center of gravity and balance at the core of the vehicle. It prevents shifting or rolling as we drive. Drivers should plan detailed transportation routes and times in advance. They should choose safe driving routes and reasonable speeds. This is especially important at busy intersections and on curved roads. Also, during transportation, regularly check the vehicle and cargo tie-downs. Check to ensure that the vehicle is intact and the cargo is securely fastened. This is to avoid any vehicle breakdowns that could affect transportation safety. Using the right securing gear and safety signs makes transportation safer. To ensure your cargo is transported safely and efficiently, contact Truckman Automobile for professional flatbed semi-trailer solutions.
FAQ
Oversized cargoes exceed standard size and weight limits. They are typically wider than 8.5 feet, longer than 48 feet, or heavier than 46,000 pounds.
Not necessarily, the need for an escort vehicle depends on the exact dimensions of the shipment and state regulations.
Includes mainly red or orange flags and lights used in low visibility conditions
Restriction of shipments to daytime weekends and holidays