Transportation of oversized cargo is a service that is in the greatest demand among large businesses, in particular construction and agricultural. If at least one aspect is planned incorrectly, it will lead to danger on the roads and fines for all participants in the transportation, so we advise you to familiarize yourself with the rules and requirements in detail.
Oversized cargo: what does it mean
Oversized cargo is cargo whose dimensions or weight exceed the permissible norms of the traffic regulations.
Transportation of oversized cargo is carried out by special transport, along a pre-planned route and with the necessary permits from Ukravtodor.
Permissible dimensions and loads according to the traffic regulations
The maximum permissible weight of a truck is regulated in paragraph 22.5 of the traffic regulations of Ukraine – “Transportation of heavy and oversized cargo”.
Axle load table:
- Single axle – up to 11 t.
- Double (paired) axles – up to 16 t.
- Structural (triple) axles – up to 22 t.
Permissible axle load standards in Ukraine:
- length – 22 m;
- height from the road surface – 4 m;
- width – 2.6 m;
- weight – 40 t.
If the cargo or vehicle exceeds the specified dimensions and weight, then it is considered heavy.
Rules for transporting oversized cargo
The driver is responsible for complying with the rules of transportation and traffic regulations, fastening and placing the weight, and the responsible person is responsible for the technical condition of the vehicle.
General rules for transporting oversized cargo:
- drive at a limited speed (60 km/h on the highway, 15 km/h on bridges);
- use dipped headlights and flashing beacons;
- perform transportation during the absence of road surface loading.
Oversize should not interfere with driving and cover external lighting devices or signs.
Permits and documents
Permits for oversized cargo are issued by Ukravtodor and local road authorities. They must provide information about the dimensions and driver, as well as the developed route.
For transportation, a description of the object of transportation, insurance and a technical passport will also be required.
Signs and markings for oversized cargo
Oversized cargo must be marked with special markings, which must be clearly visible. Usually, the oversized cargo sign looks like red and white diagonal stripes. During evening transportation, the following additional equipment is installed on the vehicle:
- a white light or reflector in front;
- a red light in the back;
- orange reflectors on the sides.
The level of oversize is indicated by a special index in the format НХХХХ. The letter H always comes first, followed by the lower oversize indicator, and then the designation of the side oversize.
Oversize markings will improve its recognition and ensure the safety of movement.
How oversized cargo is transported in practice
During the movement of oversized cargo, the key point is the strength of the fasteners that could withstand the load during various maneuvers.
The most common types of oversized cargo are:
- industrial equipment;
- large construction equipment;
- agricultural machinery;
- energy equipment;
- mobile asphalt plants;
- equipment for logging;
- large tanks and cisterns.
Usually, special equipment is used for loading and dismantling – cranes, lifts, hydraulic systems.
Penalties for violation of the rules
In addition to the fine, the carrier will have to compensate for damages if the transport damaged the road surface, structures, bridges due to the violation of the permissible axle load standards.
The fine for oversized cargo is:
- for drivers – 510 UAH;
- for responsible officials – 680 UAH.
The amounts may increase for exceeding the established norms by 5–10%, repeated violation within a year and transportation of oversized cargo without permits.
Conclusion
Given the complexity of how oversized cargo is transported and the countless nuances, it is better to entrust oversized cargo to a logistics company or an experienced carrier with a large fleet. Cooperation with professionals will definitely save you from fines and problems on the roads.
