When it comes to hauling heavy loads, there is a big difference between an oversized load vs. a super load. Many people use the two terms interchangeably, but they are pretty different. An oversized load is a shipment larger than the legal limits set by the Department of Transportation in the United States. A superload is a shipment much larger than an oversized load and requires special permission from the DOT to be transported.
The Difference Between an Oversized Load vs. a Super Load:
Here is the difference between an oversized load vs. a super load:
Oversized Loads
Oversized loads refer to any shipment that surpasses the maximum legal limits enforced by the United States Department of Transportation. These restrictions differ per state, but typically a load is considered oversized if it exceeds 8.5 feet in width, 13.5 feet in height, 40 feet length-wise or has an overall weight heavier than 80 thousand pounds gross.
To move a bulky load, the driver must first secure an individualized permit from the state in which they are driving through. The license will provide details on their route as well as any rules that should be followed throughout travel. Moreover, drivers must adhere to safety regulations such as firmly securing the cargo beforehand.
Superloads
If your shipment exceeds the standard measurements of 16 ft. in width, 16.5ft tall and 105 ft long or has a gross weight above 200,000 lbs., it is classified as a superload – meaning special permission from the Department of Transportation is essential to transport such cargo across state lines.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires a special permit for any driver transporting a super load. This document outlines the route that must be taken and, most importantly, provides instructions about additional safety regulations such as ensuring proper load security. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to serious consequences; therefore, it is important for all drivers to comply with this law accordingly.
Moreover, the operator must acquire authorization from each state where their load will be transported. Every jurisdiction has distinct superload regulations, so all necessary permissions must be obtained before transport can occur.
The Difference Between Oversized Loads and Superloads
Oversized loads and superloads differ greatly in regards to their size and weight. An oversized load is any shipment that exceeds the legal limitations set by the United States Department of Transportation, whereas a superload encompasses an even bigger package requiring permission from DOT before it can be shipped.
When shipping an oversized or superload, there is a different level of permitting required. Specifically, the transportation of an oversized load calls for special permission from only one state while moving a superload necessitates authorization from both the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and each respective state along its route.
Ultimately, the safety rules for transporting oversized and superloads are not the same. Oversized loads must comply with specific security protocols, like ensuring that it is safely secured before transportation. As well as these regulations, a superload must observe any extra limitations set by the state in which they are being transported.
Conclusion
Oversized loads and superloads may sound similar, yet they differ in various ways. An oversized load is a shipment that exceeds the legal limits by the Department of Transportation (DOT). On the other hand, extremely large shipments are classified as superloads and require special approval from DOT before it can be transported on public roads. Moreover, for safety reasons, drivers must secure these shipments accordingly according to required regulations made by DOT. If you are transporting an oversized load or a superload, it is important to be aware of the differences between the two and ensure that you have the proper permits and adhere to all safety regulations.
In this article, you learned about the Difference Between an Oversized Load vs. a Super LoadIf you need help transporting an oversized load or a superload, Freedom Heavy Haul is here to help. We specialize in transporting oversized and superloads and have the experience and expertise to ensure your shipment is transported safely and efficiently. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your shipment.