In today’s fast-moving industrial world, transporting oversized freight is no simple task. Whether you’re moving construction machinery, wind turbine components, steel structures, or massive tanks, these loads go far beyond the size and weight limits of standard shipping methods. Oversized freight transportation requires specialized trucking solutions, expert handling, and meticulous planning to ensure safety, compliance, and timely delivery.
At SSP Group of Companies, we specialize in moving complex, over-dimensional cargo across North America. With over 15 years of experience in asset-based logistics, we understand that moving oversized freight isn’t just about size it’s about precision, permits, and protection.
What is Considered Oversized Freight?
Oversized or over-dimensional freight refers to cargo that exceeds the standard legal size or weight limits set by transportation authorities. In most regions, a load is considered oversized if it exceeds:
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Width: 8.5 feet (102 inches)
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Height: 13.5 to 14 feet (varies by province/state)
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Length: 53 feet for trailers (may vary by jurisdiction)
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Weight: 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight (including truck and trailer)
Any freight that exceeds these limits requires special permits and often needs escort vehicles, route planning, and specialized trailers to ensure safe and legal transport.
Challenges of Transporting Oversized Freight
Transporting oversized cargo poses a unique set of challenges compared to standard freight:
1. Route Restrictions
Oversized loads cannot travel on just any route. Factors such as bridge heights, road widths, weight limits, and traffic patterns must all be considered. Some roads may be completely inaccessible for certain freight dimensions.
2. Permits and Regulations
Moving an oversized load legally requires state/provincial and federal permits. These permits vary depending on the route, cargo dimensions, and weight. Some jurisdictions also mandate travel time restrictions, especially in urban areas or during peak hours.
3. Safety Concerns
Oversized cargo can pose safety risks to other drivers on the road. It often requires vehicles, police assistance, and additional safety measures like flags, lights, and warning signs.
4. Special Equipment and Handling
You can’t load oversized freight onto a standard flatbed or dry van trailer. Specialized equipment such as RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailers, lowboys, extendable flatbeds, and multi-axle trailers are required. Proper securing methods—like heavy-duty chains, straps, and edge protectors—are also critical.
Why You Need Specialized Trucking Solutions
Here’s why working with an experienced logistics partner like SSP Group of Companies is essential for oversized freight:
Tailored Equipment Options
We offer a wide range of trailer types, including:
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RGN Trailers: Ideal for tall or heavy machinery that needs to be loaded from the front.
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Step Decks and Lowboys: Designed for freight that exceeds height restrictions.
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Extendable Flatbeds: Perfect for extremely long loads like pipes or wind turbine blades.
Our asset-based fleet ensures availability, quality, and reliability—without relying on third parties.
Expert Planning & Permit Management
At SSP Group, we take care of the entire logistics process from applying for special permits to mapping out the safest and most efficient route. Our team works closely with local, provincial, and cross-border authorities to ensure compliance and prevent costly delays.
Safety-First Approach
Safety is at the core of what we do. We use experienced drivers, top-tier securing equipment, and follow strict safety protocols to protect your cargo and the public. Vehicles are arranged when required, and all drivers are trained in handling high-risk freight.
Real-Time Tracking & Communication
We use cutting-edge tracking technology to give you real-time visibility of your cargo. Our dispatch and customer service teams provide proactive updates, ensuring transparency and peace of mind from pickup to delivery.
Industries That Rely on Specialized Oversized Shipping
Oversized freight is critical to many industries, including:
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Construction – Excavators, bulldozers, cranes, concrete beams
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Oil & Gas – Storage tanks, drilling rigs, pipeline sections
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Energy – Wind turbines, transformers, solar equipment
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Manufacturing – Large machinery, industrial components
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Agriculture – Tractors, plows, irrigation systems
Every industry has unique freight needs and we’re prepared to meet them with tailored trucking solutions.
Real-World Example: Oversized Load for Infrastructure Project
Recently, SSP Group managed the transport of prefabricated steel bridge sections from Ontario to Texas. These oversized components measured over 12 feet in width and required specialized RGN trailers, multiple permits across states and provinces, and two escort vehicles.
Our expert team handled route mapping, border documentation, and timing the transport to comply with local restrictions. The result? A safe, on-time, and damage-free delivery—contributing to a successful infrastructure upgrade.
Conclusion
Oversized freight transportation isn’t just about moving big cargo—it’s about precision, safety, and expertise. Specialized trucking solutions ensure that your valuable, over-dimensional equipment arrives safely, legally, and on time.
At SSP Group of Companies, we bring together advanced logistics, custom equipment, and 15+ years of experience to deliver oversized freight solutions that you can trust. No matter the complexity, we’re ready to take the load off your shoulders.
Need to move oversized freight?
Contact SSP Group at (519) 968-3632 or email cs@sspgroup.com to request a tailored quote.
