Tips for Oversize or Overweight Permits Your New Trucking Company Should Keep in Mind
Getting a trucking company off the ground takes hard work and time, and that's something you likely know by now. In addition to making an investment in your new fleet of trucks, you'll also have to make sure that your company is in compliance with all trucking-related regulations before any of your drivers can hit the road. While you'll surely make sure that each driver you hire is properly licensed and up to speed with industry regulations, don't forget that you may also have to file some paperwork or applications based on the size or weight of the hauls you'll be carrying. Here are some tips to keep in mind when applying for or working with oversize permits or overweight permits as a new trucking company.
You May Need Additional Permits for Different States
If your trucking company will only be moving a haul within one state's borders, you can likely just apply for your needed permits in that specific state. But you should know each state may have different requirements for hauling an overweight or oversize load, and your permit in one state is not going to be usable in another state. Take a look at your planned routes and make sure you have the proper permits in every state your drivers may go through.
Be Mindful of Time Restrictions
Some states put time restrictions on when or how long you are able to haul an oversize or overweight load. For example, you may only be able to haul something of a certain size from sunrise to sunset. Be mindful of these restrictions as you are planning out your driver's schedules in the early days of your operations. Again, because different states may have different regulations, be mindful of what time it is when your drivers will be crossing state lines. It may be legal to drive in one state at 5 a.m. but illegal in another state. Things could become more complicated if your drivers will be crossing time zones while on their route.
You May Need an Escort
If your load reaches a certain size or weight, some states may require an escort to either go ahead of or behind your vehicle. This could be another driver from your own company or you could consider hiring a contractor from an escort company if you will only haul especially large loads on occasion. Moving a haul of a certain size or weight without an escort will put you in violation of your permit, so pay attention to the measurements and final weight of your haul before you set out
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