Fast, reliable & cost effective Equipment Transport

We lead with field-proven surveys that verify lane width, turning radii, bridge ratings, and overhead clearances before any move. This hands-on check prevents staged pilot cars with no path, disputed police escorts, and stalled equipment that costs time and money.

We confirm whether a permit is required for each vehicle and load. Then we align that paperwork with the chosen route. When Indiana or Ohio rules apply, we match permit limits and insurance needs to the plan.

Our guide turns survey data into permit language. That reduces manual reviews and speeds approval. If a segment lacks safe clearance, we redesign the detour before we file. Safety is our first filter.

We also handle road-to-river interfaces and marine timing. The result is a documented, executable plan that defenders can rely on at audit time and on the pavement.

What shippers and drivers need to know before planning a detour

We begin by confirming state rules and travel windows so planning matches real-world limits. That sets the baseline for safety and keeps the move defensible. Many states require a permit when legal limits are exceeded. Indiana and Ohio publish guides and online systems that speed approvals when applicants pick pre-approved routes.

User intent, timing, and required inputs

At kickoff we collect core information. Missing details slow approvals and risk last-minute changes.

• Dimensions, axle groups, gross weight, and proposed route.
• Load classification (nondivisible, superload) and expected travel time.
• Notes on temporary restrictions like posted bridges, work zones, or severe weather conditions.
• Count of vehicles and escort needs when moves include support units.
• Contact list for utilities, DOT, and local police so stakeholders are sequenced early.

We explain how convoy makeup and communications change permit strategy. Where possible we choose paths that match state permit lanes to cut manual review. This helps your company meet schedule goals while keeping on-road vehicles compliant with permit rules and enforcement checkpoints.

Defining oversize and overweight: dimensions, weight, and vehicle limits that trigger permits

We translate raw measurements into permit thresholds so planners and drivers know the limits up front.

Key thresholds vary by state. Indiana requires a permit when height exceeds 13 ft 6 in, width exceeds 8 ft 6 in, or a semi-tractor-semi-trailer exceeds 53 ft in length. Indiana also uses an 80,000 lb gross weight baseline subject to axle limits. Ohio treats a superload as gross weight over 120,000 lbs, overall width over 14 ft, or overall height over 14 ft 6 in.

Terms that matter

Overall height and under clearance define the vertical space needed. Axle group, tandem, tri-axle, and quad-axle determine allowable weight distribution. These dimensions affect whether a truck or tractor needs a special route or engineering review.

• Nondivisible vs. divisible: nondivisible loads usually need a permit.
• Axle selection changes legal weight even when gross weight is constant.
• Width and length numbers drive turn geometry and lane control plans.

Route survey first, permits second: the foundation of safe detours

A precise field survey uncovers clearance and pavement issues that maps rarely show. We put wheels on the pavement to check lane width, taper, turn arcs, and swept-path envelopes against the vehicle and trailer. This step protects schedule and safety.

Field measurements and structure checks

We measure turning radii and swing-out using laser tools and height poles. Bridge IDs, posted load ratings, and recent postings get logged. Axle groups are compared to those ratings so any permit matches real capacity.

Overhead, pavement, and staging

We capture overhead utilities, gantries, and tree canopy heights. Pavement rutting, crown, and soft spots are measured with deflectometers. Shoulders and staging spots are scoped to hold escorts and police safely.

When to escalate

Surveys happen at bid, before permits are filed, and when alternate paths emerge. Multi-county moves, near-limit clearances, or marine legs trigger a full survey. We turn findings into permit-ready steps so approvals and the move process stay defensible. See our heavy machinery transport checklist for related information.

Managing Detours for Oversize Loads During Road Construction

We adapt route plans when active work zones narrow lanes or shift tapers that affect a vehicle’s swept path. We test lane width and taper against the vehicle dynamic envelope before we approve a path. This prevents last-minute holds and helps maintain schedule.

How work zones change lane geometry and controls

Active sites add temporary traffic control points and changed tapers. These features alter swing-out and off-tracking. We lock in traffic control points and staged holds so the move flows.

Designing alternate options when U‑turns are impossible

Drivers in long units cannot improvise a U-turn once the load is committed. We build alternate routes in advance. Each option is tested for turning arcs, clearance, and staging space.

• Redesign the path by matching lane width and taper to the vehicle envelope and swing-out.
• Create alternate routes ahead of time; avoid on-the-fly turns.
• Confirm temporary bridge limits and postings with county engineers to avoid overstress.
• Coordinate flagging, staged holds, and timing to protect the driver, public, and crews.
• Attach construction layouts and MOT details to the permit package when allowed to speed review.
• Pre-clear recovery options along the route so the vehicle and load can be protected if conditions change.

Permits, rules, and requirements: plan approvals that keep operations legal

We prioritize complete, legible applications so state systems can auto-issue permits when the numbers fit. This reduces manual review and speeds approval.

Apply through the state portal that matches your route choice. Indiana’s OSOW lets applicants pick pre-approved or alternate routes for near‑instant permits when dimensions match. Chrome and one browser tab help prevent session errors. Ohio accepts central, automated, district, or mail submissions when origin and destination are exact.

What we submit and why it matters

• Exact vehicle and trailer specs: dimensions, axle groups, and equipment configuration.
• Clear origin-to-destination information and proposed route selection.
• Requested date and travel time windows that respect daylight and school-zone curfews.

We align our company records with each permit. That keeps inspections consistent and reduces rejection risk. When travel times are tight, we pre-coordinate local enforcement to ensure on-day passage follows the stated rules and requirements.

State spotlight: Indiana OSOW permits, routes, and enforcement updates

The OSOW system in Indiana lets users build a digital route survey that often yields instant permits when dimensions match pre-approved corridors.

Thresholds: Indiana requires a permit when height exceeds 13 ft 6 in, width exceeds 8 ft 6 in, trailer length tops 53 ft, or gross weight exceeds 80,000 lbs.

We keep a paper or electronic copy of the M-204 General Provisions with the permit at all times. That simple step lowers friction during enforcement checks and roadside stops.

System features and quick approvals

The portal supports pre-approved and system alternate routes. We create surveys, select alternates, and aim to secure immediate issuance when specs align.

Penalties and compliance

New civil fines effective Feb 14, 2025 raise first-offense penalties. Excess dimensions or weights can also trigger scaled fines. We track dates, fees, and training to keep the company protected.

“Keep the M-204 with the permit. Enforcement will ask for it.”

• Verify vehicle and axle setup before filing.
• Brief drivers on signage, escort, and chartered route information.
• Fund sealed ocean container fees up front ($800 annual) when applicable.

State spotlight: Ohio Special Hauling Permits and operational definitions

Ohio’s permit system sets clear thresholds and channels that shape route planning and review timelines. We use those rules to pick the right application path and avoid surprises on move day.

Application channels and permit types

Apply through the central office in Columbus, the automated online system, district offices (limited walk-in), or by mail. Many routine permits issue while you wait in person.

• Trip, single trip & return, and 90‑day continuing & return options match short and long moves.
• We choose the type that fits route length and projected timing so the permit covers the operation and the year policy dates.
• We pre-pay fees and fund accounts to prevent processing holds.

Key definitions that affect routing

Ohio defines superload as gross weight over 120,000 lbs, overall width over 14 ft, or overall height over 14 ft 6 in.

Daylight hours run from a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset. Under clearance means the distance to the trailer underside and informs crossing and crown decisions.

“File the OS‑32 endorsement early; it prevents issuance delays.”

We file the $500,000 OS‑32 liability endorsement and verify vehicle specs against superload criteria. That reduces manual review, limits enforcement questions, and keeps a tow plan ready if routing constraints change.

Escorts and police: when pilot cars and law enforcement are required

Escort plans start with the survey. We use measured clearances and state thresholds to set counts and positions. This removes guesswork and keeps moves predictable.

Pilot car needs change by state and by load size. Ohio requires lead units to carry height sensing devices when vertical space is tight. Indiana may require an Indiana State Police escort under M-204 provisions.

Certified drivers, sensing tools, and multi-escort moves

We verify certifications and assign the right equipment to each escort vehicle. Lead escorts get height devices when overheads matter. Support escorts carry radios and staging gear.

• We derive escort needs from permit thresholds and the route survey so the correct number of vehicles is scheduled.
• Lead escorts carry height sensors to prevent contact with overhead structures.
• We coordinate law enforcement involvement and embed it in the permit plan and day-of sequence.
• Escorts are positioned at complex turns and narrow zones to protect the vehicle and the public.
• We document all escort contacts and protocols in the permit file to allow fast changes if conditions shift.

Safety is our top metric. We train drivers and escort teams on permit requirements before dispatch. That prevents missteps and keeps the move on track.

Engineering the detour path: bridges, spans, and posted limits

We catalog span IDs, material, year built, and the latest load rating reports to match each vehicle and permit to real capacity. Surveys record rehab dates and inspection notes so we see recent changes. Counties may issue temporary reductions after floods or checks. We confirm those postings with local engineers.

Span checks and axle modeling

We model axle groups and gross weight across critical spans. This shows where dynamic effects add impact and flags risk of damage. When postings or resurfacing alter limits, we update the permit and the plan immediately.

• Compile span IDs and load rating information to validate the permit.
• Model axle group loads so the vehicle stays within posted limits.
• Verify temporary reductions with county engineers and revise permits as needed.
• Plan maneuvers to smooth dynamic loads and reduce damage factors.
• Set hold points ahead of sensitive spans so escorts and police can control spacing.
• Align geometry for long vehicles and tows, noting grades and transition limits.

We keep a bridge packet in the permit file. That packet speeds onsite verification and supports safe, defensible moves.

Overhead and roadside conflicts: utilities, signals, and street furniture

We log every overhead line, signal, and street fixture during the survey to avoid surprises on move day. The goal is clear. We match measured clearances to the vehicle and the permit.

Wire lifts, bucket height, and utility coordination

Surveys capture conductor sag at temperature extremes and identify the owning utility. We record required bucket heights and estimated lift fees. That data feeds the work order and the permit request.

We schedule lift windows and secure approvals early. This reduces on-day delays and keeps the crew and public safe.

Signal arms, street furniture, and cost control

Signal arms and light poles may need removal and re-installation. We coordinate with traffic engineering and attach work orders to the permit file.

Hydrants, benches, and mailboxes are relocated temporarily and restored after the move. We track cost approvals and invoices so the company bears no surprise bills.

• Measure clearances against overall height and confirm wire lifts with utilities.
• Schedule lifts, capture fees, and include costs in the permit budget.
• Sequence utility work ahead of the convoy to protect the vehicle and the load.

Marine and intermodal legs: tides, locks, docks, and barge configurations

Tide charts and lock windows shape any successful intermodal transfer. We use current gauge data and seasonal patterns to set realistic time estimates and safe sailing windows.

Draft restrictions change with water levels and dredging. We test draft against barge selection so the tow can pass known limits without mid‑voyage changes.

Draft, locks, and landing grades

Lock operations can add hours or days. We build lock schedules and historical delay times into the plan so the land-side permit sequence lines up with marine arrivals.

Landing grade varies with tide. We survey ramps at multiple tide levels to find safe windows and prevent the vehicle from stalling during roll-on or roll-off.

• Pick barge and tug by matching load dimensions and weight to channel width and horsepower.
• Monitor wind and current conditions and hold moves within safe windows.
• Create an intermodal permit timeline so escorts and traffic control meet the barge on arrival.
• Keep marine stakeholder information in the same file as the land plan.

Cost and fees: permits, escorts, utility work, and construction-related traffic control

We build a single budget sheet that mirrors permit requirements and assigns costs to each vehicle and crew hour. That sheet becomes the decision tool the company uses to approve work and avoid surprises.

Budgeting basics and key line items

Start with permit fees. Indiana’s sealed ocean container fee is $800 annually and may carry strict caps on dimension and weight. Add local permit and lane closure charges next.

Include escort and police costs. Police presence often sets defined start-stop points and hourly rates. Count staging time and holds for each vehicle.

• Confirm utility lift and signal work estimates with vendors. Use real quotes, not placeholders.
• Model enforcement risk by mapping penalties ($500–$5,000) to permit violations and dimensional overages.
• Budget contingency for weather and active site changes so funds are ready if plans shift.
• Allocate costs to vehicles, crew time, and protective measures to limit damage risk.

We roll all factors into the final budget so the permit package, risk model, and cash approval align. That keeps the move defensible and on schedule.

Timelines and sequencing: from bid and survey to date of move

We lock the project timeline into a clear sequence from bid to move date. Surveys are scheduled at bid, again before permit filings, and whenever alternate paths appear. That front-loading protects the calendar.

We plan permit submissions to use faster approval times when possible. Indiana often issues permits by the next business day when routes match pre-approved corridors. Ohio offers trip and continuing types; many can be issued while you wait.

Permitting lead times, inspections, signage, and stakeholder notices

• We map milestones from bid, survey, application, to the final date so each dependency is visible.
• We assume days for field checks and utility confirmations, then slot the permit submission to capture quick approval times.
• Inspections, lane closures, and signage installs are locked to specific day and time windows to control the work zone.
• We notify DOT, utilities, police, and the receiving site several days in advance with final route and timing information.
• We brief the driver the day before and update on the morning of the move.
• Escort staging and pre-trip checks align the vehicle length and configuration to the exact permit.
• A rolling checklist lets operations validate readiness at each gate before the convoy moves.

Tools, data, and documentation: building a defensible file

Our approach makes the permit file the single source of truth. We collect measured numbers, photos, maps, and named contacts so reviewers and crews act on the same facts.

Measurements, photos, contact rosters, maps, and digital exports

We attach survey outputs and digital route exports to each permit. That speeds reviews and cuts repeat checks.

• Measurements & photos: Lane widths, clearances, height and width numbers as-measured are stored with time-stamped images.
• Contacts: DOT liaisons, police supervisors, and utility dispatchers are listed so communications are instant when conditions change.
• Maps & exports: Digital route survey files, bathymetric soundings, and dock load ratings travel with the package for intermodal moves.
• Vehicle & equipment data: Configurations and axle setups are saved so the permit matches reality, not an estimate.
• Version history: We keep company copies and edits to show auditors how and when decisions were made.

Good documentation shortens reviews, reduces risk, and keeps the operation defensible.

Multi-state detour strategies: aligning width, height, length, and axle weight rules

When a move crosses state lines we reconcile each jurisdiction’s thresholds to build one enforceable plan. Early reconciliation prevents surprises at borders and reduces enforcement risk.

We compare width, height, overall height, and length rules across every state on the corridor. We then design a route that fits the strictest limits while keeping travel efficient.

Axle groupings and gross weight need the same care. We align axle counts to bridge formulas and weight allowances so each state’s permit is achievable. That reduces rejected applications and on-day holds.

We sequence state permits to follow the project’s critical path. This avoids one slow approval stalling the entire move. Pre-approved segments are chosen where possible, and legs are split when permit regimes differ.

• Keep one dimensions matrix so reviewers see consistent numbers.
• Lock overall height to the lowest structure and plan wire lifts where needed.
• Flag limits that change at borders and stage escorts where hand-offs occur.

For multi-state planning tips and a route checklist, see our heavy haul route planning guide. We keep the permit file clear so drivers and companies can stand behind the plan.

Put the plan in motion: a safe, enforceable detour your driver and company can stand behind

, We close the loop with permit verification, a driver briefing, and synced escorts so the convoy departs on the scheduled date. We validate measured numbers against the permit and insurance notes before any vehicle moves.

We confirm escort call times, police staging, and utility windows. We pre-check enforcement documents and contact sheets so roadside questions resolve fast. We also verify marine timing when a barge leg is part of the plan.

We rehearse the last mile at complex turns to protect signals and street furniture. We align operations to contingency triggers and keep alternates in the permit file. We document outcomes so the company learns and improves each move.

When survey data, permits, and briefs come together, the job runs cleaner. That preserves reputation and keeps the wheels turning.