Heavy haul trucking is an important job in the United States. It requires experienced drivers to safely transport oversized and overweight loads from state to state. A recent job called for a heavy haul trucker to transport a load from Oregon to West Virginia. This is a particularly challenging route, as the haul must traverse long stretches of road, multiple terrains, and varying weather conditions.
Major Highways to Consider
When planning a route from Oregon to West Virginia, the most direct way is to follow I-5 south to I-15 south to I-70 east. This route will take you through the states of California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and Kansas. You'll then head east on I-68 and I-79 which will take you through Maryland and Virginia before reaching West Virginia. This route is the most direct, but it doesn't account for the unique challenges that come with transporting oversized and overweight loads.
Another route to consider is to take I-5 south to I-84 east. This route will take you through Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. From there, you’ll follow I-77 south to West Virginia. This route is slightly longer than the I-5 to I-15 route, however, it may be more suitable for heavy haul truckers as the road conditions are generally better and there are fewer restrictions for oversized and overweight loads.
Unique Challenges
When transporting an oversized or overweight load, drivers must take special precaution. This is especially true when driving through mountainous terrain. Drivers must be aware of weight restrictions, speed limits, and any other local or state regulations that may apply. Additionally, depending on the size and weight of the load, certain roads may be off limits. For example, some states may prohibit trucks from driving on certain highways, bridges, or tunnels.
In addition to road conditions, drivers must also take into account the weather. Heavy haul loads can be extremely sensitive to wind, rain, and snow. Even when the roads are clear, drivers must be extra cautious when driving in inclement weather. This means taking extra breaks, driving slower, and being aware of any potential hazards.
Weather Considerations
The route from Oregon to West Virginia is a long one, and can take days to complete. During the trip, drivers can expect to encounter a variety of different weather conditions. During the summer months, temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees in parts of Nevada, Utah, and Kansas. In the winter, snow and ice can make driving conditions treacherous. Drivers must be prepared for any situation and adjust their driving accordingly.
Heavy haul loads can also be affected by strong winds and rain. Anytime a driver is dealing with a large and heavy load, they must be aware of the potential for the load to move or shift in strong winds or rain. This can be especially dangerous on mountainous roads or when driving through tunnels. Drivers should take extra precautions when driving in such conditions.
Other Considerations
When driving a heavy haul load, drivers must also take into account the safety of the load. Drivers should inspect the load before and after each leg of the journey to ensure that it is secure and nothing has shifted. Additionally, drivers should inspect their vehicle for any potential issues, such as worn tires or brakes. Any repair or maintenance should be addressed immediately.
It's also important to ensure that the load is properly marked and labeled. All signs should be clearly visible and in compliance with all state and federal laws. This is especially important when driving through a heavily populated area.
Heavy haul trucking is an important job that requires experienced drivers. When transporting a load from Oregon to West Virginia, drivers must take into account the unique challenges of the route. This includes knowing the major highways to consider, understanding the unique challenges that may arise, and being aware of the various weather conditions that may be encountered. With the right preparation, drivers can safely and successfully transport their haul.
