Transporting the longest semi-trailer requires specialized trailers, permits, police escorts, and route planning

Preparations before moving

Securing the Permit

Before moving any semi-trailer, one must contact local, state, and federal government authorities.

In the United States, for instance, the cost of moving an oversized load may vary from $10 to $500. In order to secure a permit, one must specify in detail the trailer’s dimensions and weight, as well as its planned route.

Planning the Route

Route planning is one of the most important preparatory measures. One must establish a safe and effective road that meets the weight and size requirements of one’s build. Key concerns include overpass clearances and bridge weight limits, as well as the width of the road. If part of the route must be closed to other traffic, if telephone cables or telegraph wires are in the way, or if any other special circumstances require special attention, the planning must take that into account.

Securing a Police Escort

In the case of very long or heavy trailers, police escorts are commonly used.

Their purpose is to control traffic during the move and effectively provide for the trailer’s security. Escort fees may vary from $100 to $300 per hour, and one may use a single vehicle or create a convoy depending on the complexity of the route.

Checking the Trailer and Equipment

One must always ensure that the trailer and the loading equipment are in proper order. Examine the semi-trailer’s construction, the condition of the tires, and the condition of the notified mechanism. Any equipment failure may cause major delays and considerable costs.

Scheduling

Coordinate with all relevant parties in advance. This includes not only local police but also utility company employees and every other party that needs to know. Develop a clear schedule and make it understandable for everyone. This ensures that no unexpected difficulties will transpire and the move will not be forced to stop or postpone.

Having a Plan for Emergency

Have the necessary contacts ready. For instance, one must know where the nearest semi-trailer repairing facility is, as well as have a replacement part in store or one’s trailer. It is also a good idea to have an alternative route planned for cases of emergency.

Transport tools and equipment

Extended Trailers

Using a normal trailer can be a great challenge when transporting such an oversized semi-trailer. There are some specially designed trailers for big loads, for example, extendable flatbeds, lowboys, and modular trailers that can stretch up to 400 feet. They have a lower bed and lift the load up so this facilitates the compliance with tight height restrictions. Moreover, the extendable flatbeds have the capacity to reach 80 or more feet.

Hydraulic Lifts and Jacks

It is essential to have the necessary equipment to load or unload these items onto the trailer. The hydraulic lifts and jacks can sustain loads of about 50 tons and more. It is important to have high capacity tools and to find reliable equipment to avoid accidents and unexpected crashes or damages.

Heavy-Duty Ties

Although it can be a big challenge to secure these loads for transport, it is possible to tie them down using heavy-duty tie downs with a WLL of minimum 10000 pounds. It is an essential aspect to make sure the load is tied securely so the load will not be damaged or shifted.

Pilot/Stinger Cars

Transporting such oversized items implies hiring pilot cars that must be driven ahead and alert drivers that there are approaching heavy loads. They are inspectors or pilot cars to ensure the right path and to warn other drivers about the lorry transports. The pilot cars have different alerting devices like signs and extent lights and are compulsory for oversized lorry transports.

Communication Devices

It is important to keep in touch with the pilot cars and with the transport personnel. It can be achieved using two-way radios, mobile phones, or tracking GPS devices. There should be an included means to make sure a real-time cooperation is available; therefore, there are no mistakes or accidents.

Personal Safety Equipment

It is compulsory to have personal safety equipment on and to make sure that all personnel involved in transportations as long as the load is in a jurisdiction should wear it. The equipment should be hard hats, gloves, hard boots, and light-reflecting vests.

Portable Lighting

Transport may be at nighttime or with low lighting so the use of portable lighting such as LED floodlight or beacon lights is indicated.

Maintenance Tools

In case the lorry or the trailer has a problem on the road or in case there are any types of mechanical breakdowns, the availability of a set of tools or kit box is essential. It should contain a list of wrenches, screwdrivers, tire repair kit, or other spare parts.

Weighting Equipment Equipments or an axle-scale and load leveler should be in the maintenance kit to ensure a good weight distribution steady or to avoid axle overload and optimal vehicle stability.

First Aid and Emergency Supplies

When under high pressure loads may tend to break. Transport personnel should have a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, or a spill containment kit with them for this purpose.

Precautions during transportation

Monitoring Load Stability

Semi-trailer stability must be monitored constantly throughout the transportation. Use on-board cameras or other sensors to make sure that any movement or shift of the load is quickly acted upon. Check ties-down and other cargo securing systems regularly.

Adhering to Speed Limits

The unit driver must drive according to established speed limits, as high speeds can be dangerous as they raise rollover risk and lower controllability of the vehicle. Usually, these limits are between 45 and 55 miles per hour, depending on the state and the nature of the road.

Making Turns and Curves

When making a turn, make sure that enough space is available to avoid either running on the curb or going too far to the left and causing an accident with incoming traffic. Oftentimes, a pilot car has to be used to block upcoming traffic and provide additional space. Turning in at reduced speed is beneficial as the vehicle’s center of gravity is higher and weight is not evenly distributed.

Weather Conditions

Keep an eye on the weather as it can significantly impact the transportation process. If there’s a sign of worsening weather, consider delaying the travel or going through an alternative route. Special caution is warranted in rain, snow, or high wind. It might also be sensible to fit the transport vehicle with chains or other traction devices if the winter weather is expected.

Communication

Always make sure that the control center and the pilot cars know exactly what is going on. Two-way radios and sully GPS devices can be used to provide warnings and updates to adjacent cars. The line of communication must be open and free of interference.

Road Construction

Always expect road construction and when present, cooperatively engage with the traffic management on the construction site. Plan alternate routes for construction areas. Sometimes, special permission must be obtained from construction companies well in advance.

Legal Requirements

Always make sure the legality of the operation is in line. This includes weight and load dimension limits, cargo securing requirements, and signs that need to be displayed on the vehicle. Failing to adhere to these regulations will result in fines, delays, and accidents.

Security and Risk Management

Risk Evaluation and Planning:

Prior to the transport implement a thorough risk evaluation. This should include potential issues like sharp turns, steep grades, or low bridges. Develop a risk evaluation mitigation plan that accommodates these issues, and understand how to safely transport your goods in light of these challenges. Utilize route simulation software to visualize these issues.

Insurance:

You will need specific coverage for your oversized load, and moving it will significantly increase your liability. Work with your provider to make sure your coverage includes any possible damage to the load being transported, third-party liability if an accident occurred, and coverage for any liability due to environmental contamination or damage.

Real-Time Monitoring Systems:

These might be additional safety measures to implement. A fully equipped semi will have provisions for real-time monitoring, such as GPS tracking, Telematics, or even just on-board cameras that feed back to a control center. Use these sensors to track your vehicle throughout its journey and make sure it is adhering to the planned route.

Security Personnel:

Some loads might require these professional services. If your company is transporting anything of value, then consider hiring out vehicle security along with the transport. These professionals help secure valuable goods against theft and vandalism as you navigate the roadway. Make sure you deal with a reputable high-value transport security firm.

Secure Parking:

Plan for stops and get the vehicle off the road in a secure location. Ensure it is well-lit and secure, and if possible also under surveillance by local law enforcement. Make sure it is not hidden away from view, as this might increase attention from would-be vandals.

Emergency Response Planning:

Make sure your team knows what to do in case of emergency. They should have a response plan for issues like accidents, mechanical breakdowns, inclement weather occurrences, and more. There should be contact numbers and aid resources in the vehicle that can be used in case of emergency.