Heavy haul trucking is a unique and difficult job that requires a lot of skill and knowledge. Transporting over-sized and heavy loads from one state to another can be a daunting task, particularly when the two states are as far apart as Arkansas and Pennsylvania. In order to ensure that heavy hauls are delivered safely and on time, truckers must be familiar with the roads and regulations, and prepared for a variety of weather conditions, as well as other special considerations that come with the job.
Major Highways
When it comes to heavy haul trucking from Arkansas to Pennsylvania, it's important to know the routes that offer the most direct and safest travel. The most common route to take is I-40, which passes through both states and is the most direct option. However, depending on the size and weight of the haul, truckers may need to take a different route to avoid certain highways that are too small or too narrow to accommodate over-sized and heavy loads.
Other routes that truckers may take include I-64, I-55, and I-81. I-64 runs from the southeastern corner of Arkansas to the northern tip of Pennsylvania, connecting several major cities along the way. I-55 runs from the corner of Arkansas up to St. Louis, just over the border from Pennsylvania, and I-81 runs from Tennessee up to the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania.
Unique Challenges
Heavy haul trucking poses a unique set of challenges that must be taken into consideration when planning a route. Due to the size and weight of the haul, certain roads and bridges may be inaccessible or too dangerous to travel on. Additionally, truckers must be aware of the regulations and laws that govern over-sized and heavy loads, as they vary from state to state.
The haul must also be secured and balanced properly in order to ensure that it is safe to transport. Truckers must also be aware of any potential obstacles that could be encountered along the route, such as road construction or detours, and must be prepared to adjust their routes accordingly.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can have a major impact on the success of a heavy haul trucking job. In particular, truckers must be aware of the potential for extreme weather conditions, such as snow and ice, which can make the roads dangerous and delay the delivery of the haul. Additionally, truckers must pay attention to wind speeds, which can affect the stability of the haul and make it difficult to control the truck.
In the winter, truckers must also be prepared for changes in temperature, as the cold can cause the haul to become brittle or frozen, making it difficult to maneuver. In the summer, high temperatures can cause the haul to become overly soft and pliable, making it difficult to control.
Special Considerations
In addition to the major highways, unique challenges, and weather conditions that come with heavy haul trucking, there are other special considerations that must be taken into account. For example, truckers must be aware of the state and federal regulations that govern the transport of over-sized and heavy loads, and must be prepared to adjust their routes accordingly. Additionally, truckers must be aware of the potential for delays due to traffic, road conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Finally, truckers must be prepared for unexpected costs, such as tolls, fuel, and repairs. While these costs are typically covered by the company, truckers must be prepared for any additional expenses that may arise during the course of the job.
