We organise oversized-cargo transport using conventional and multimodal solutions that can combine road, rail and sea transport.
We help ensure that the route is selected correctly, the required documents and permits are arranged and the journey is planned safely and efficiently. This reduces the risk of expensive last-minute changes when cargo dimensions or weight turn out to differ from the original information.
What is oversized cargo transport?
Oversized cargo transport is required when cargo exceeds standard dimensional, weight or shape limits and cannot be carried using commonly used containers or trailers without special arrangements.
Such cargo often requires special transport permits, route approval with local authorities, additional safety measures, escort where necessary and dedicated equipment such as low-loaders, open platforms, jumbo trailers or telescopic trailers.
Accurate cargo dimensions, weight and technical details have a major impact on final cost and on the permits and documentation required.
Process
1. Dimension and weight verification
Accurate cargo dimensions, weight, centre-of-gravity information and loading/unloading conditions are collected.
2. Route survey
Road widths, height and weight restrictions, bridges, turns and other route risks are assessed.
3. Permits and escort
The required special permits are obtained for the route and professional escort is arranged where necessary.
4. Equipment and handling selection
A suitable low-loader, telescopic trailer or other specialised platform and the required lifting equipment are selected.
5. Transport and monitoring
The cargo moves along the approved route while timing, restrictions and agreed safety requirements are monitored.
6. Delivery and unloading
At destination, safe unloading is organised and the cargo is handed over to the consignee.
Dimension and weight verification
Permits and escort
Transport and monitoring
Route survey
Equipment and handling selection
Delivery and unloading
- 1
Dimension and weight verification
- 2
Route survey
- 3
Permits and escort
- 4
Equipment and handling selection
- 5
Transport and monitoring
- 6
Delivery and unloading
Advantages
With oversized-cargo transport, you receive not only a clearly planned and safe transport process but also solutions tailored to the individual shipment:
Attention to detail
Each cargo is assessed individually according to the client’s requirements and cargo specification so that an appropriate solution can be selected.
Risk reduction
Required permits and escort arrangements are coordinated and the route is planned in detail, reducing the risk of delays and damage.
Cost optimisation
Professional transport planning helps avoid errors, penalties and unnecessary rehandling, saving both time and cost.
FAQ
Cargo is classified as oversized when its dimensions or the combined weight of the vehicle and cargo exceed the legal limits applicable on the route. Typical limits can include approximately 2.55 m width, 4.00 m height, 16.50 m vehicle length or 40 tonnes gross combination weight, but exact thresholds vary by vehicle configuration, road and country and must always be checked for the specific movement.
Route planning begins with accurate cargo dimensions. Our specialists assess bridges, tunnels and overpasses, utility lines, road geometry, roundabouts and other constraints. The route then has to be approved by the competent authorities in each transit country where a special permit is required.
Escort requirements depend on the dimensions, route and national regulations. Wider or longer combinations may require one or more pilot cars, and particularly large movements may require police support. Exact thresholds differ between countries and must be confirmed during permit planning.
Because of their size and weight, oversized movements often have reduced speed limits to protect road users and infrastructure. In many countries, permits also restrict movements to particular times of day or specific days, for example night-time windows with lower traffic. The exact conditions are stated in the relevant permits.
