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The 5 key steps to trucking success

Transportation Backbone

Highway permits: FAQ

Transportation of Heavy Equipment

Blog — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Oversize loads include goods such as boats, steel constructions, and any other large product that may be put into or transported by a vehicle.

One thing is critical: the operator must know the exact weight and dimensions of the cargo, as well as the complete operational weight of the equipment, which includes full gasoline tank and any other equipment carried in or on the vehicle. All standards governing the weight of the truck and cargo are based on the weight on the axles. The first and most important stage in equipment transportation is determining the weight of the item of equipment you're transporting. Actual weights and measurements must be used, not guesses.

Any load that is greater than 8'6" wide or 13'6" high is considered an oversize load in most states. It's worth noting that in certain states, any cargo wider than 8' or height than 12' is considered oversized. The maximum length varies from state to state. Transporting an oversize piece of construction equipment or any other possibly oversize load, the operator must first assess if it is an oversize load by knowing the maximum dimensions and weight requirements for each state. Pre-trip route studies are frequently required for super-loads to guarantee that the vehicle and load will be able to travel the specified path. This is especially true for weights that may come into contact with overhead bridges or utility wires. Loading a trailer in such a way that the weight is equally distributed, and no axle group exceeds its particular weight limit is a difficult task. Weight distribution is crucial in any trucking operation.

States would prefer to see oversize and overweight cargoes distributed amongst two or more trucks rather than having to operate oversize and overweight loads. Many oversize shipments, on the other hand, cannot be broken down since doing so would effectively render the equipment useless at its destination. This type of load is referred to as a non-divisible load.

Super-loads can become intense, necessitating the use of numerous axles to disperse the weight so that no one axle puts greater weight on the road surface than is permitted. There are instances when a non-divisible cargo is so huge that it cannot be transported on interstates or main roads due to its size, weight, and slow speed, which would disrupt regular traffic flow. In these cases, less-traveled routes must be established, and highways must be gradually blocked as the load reaches its destination.

A load of this type necessitates extensive cooperation and scheduling, including route surveys to determine the best route, defining the equipment needed to support the load and sustain axle weights, coordinating with state and local police to assist in traffic management. While this form of transport is very costly, clients recognize that it is the best and most cost-effective option to get the enormous cargo to its destination.

When loading and securing oversize equipment, security is crucial. Damage to the equipment being transported, the transport vehicle, or to other vehicles on the road, as well as probable injury to the driver and others, can all occur due to poor securement of the load. Even when there is no accident during transportation, if authorities determine that the securement is inadequate, the driver and operator may face hefty fines. One of the first things to do is make sure the carrying equipment is up to the task. This necessitates knowledge about the load's dimensions and weight, as well as the hauling vehicle's overall weight and weight capability. The total weight will determine the loading required for adequate axle weight distribution. It's also crucial to make sure the carrying equipment is in good working order, clean, and clear of loose material like pebbles and gravel, as well as loose hardware.

See also:

The 5 Key Steps to Trucking Success

Oversize Transport Regulations

Oversize Single and Annual Trip Permit Info

Blog — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

The criteria for oversize/overweight permits are familiar to most operators that transport oversize or overweight cargoes on a regular basis. In most cases, an operator transporting an oversize or overload cargo across multiple states must first get permits from each state along the route.

Depending on state, cargo, and route, obtaining oversize and overweight permits might take couple of hours up to couple of days. Organizing a trip that takes place across numerous states necessitates planning and knowledge of each state's procedures. Single trip permits are the most appropriate approach for operators that move oversize and overweight different cargoes for various companies.

Annual permits may be useful for operators who carry oversize and overweight cargoes on a regular and recurring basis across one or more states. The benefits of an annual permit include lower oversize and overweight fees per trip based on the number of journeys, and more crucially, operators may schedule trips more easily than while waiting for single trip permits.

Permits are usually necessary for loads exceeding at least one of the following parameters:

Height of more than 13'6"
Width of more than 8'6"
Length of more than 48'
Weight of more than 80,000 pounds.

For oversize and overweight loading, each state may specify distinct or additional parameters and criteria. Rates for oversize and overweight loads will also change from one state to another and may be sliding scales for different size or weight loads. The load restrictions and related costs in each state are normally set by state legislative bodies, and hence are subject to change at any moment.

When transporting oversize and overweight cargoes between several states, operators will face various fee scales for each state, which are calculated differently as either a flat cost or sliding scales.

See also:

Oversize singe and annual trip permit

Oversize Transport Regulations

Blog — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Many states consider a cargo to be oversize if it is wider than 8'6", taller than 13'6" and longer over 40'. Any cargo that is too large to transport will require specific permissions in each state it passes through.

Every cargo that is wider than 16 feet, taller than 16 feet, or longer than 160 feet is considered a super-load, requiring special planning, permits, and operating procedures. It's worth noting that each state may specify super-load parameters differently. As a result, to assure compliance, it is required to evaluate state rules through which a super-load will pass.

Loads greater than 13'6" feet in height may be confined to routes missing bridge overpasses. Super-loads that stretch higher than 16 feet over the street may likely face other obstacles such as utility lines, highway overhead signs, and traffic signals, in addition to overpasses.

If overhead obstacles such as electric lines or signs are discovered during a route study, plans must be devised to either lift the obstruction or temporarily remove it. Bucket trucks and operators open the way for these super-loads by removing any possible obstacles that may interfere with the cargo. Bucket truck operators that provide escort services for super-loads must ensure that all of their drivers are trained to remove overhead power lines, elevate or remove and replace overhead traffic lights, and remove overhead signs in a safe and efficient manner.

A bucket truck operator will offer assistance with planning and scheduling, with the ability to choose the most suited path with the fewest overhead impediments.
Lifting and removing obstructions at the right times to let the load to pass safely while trying to minimize incommodities to the other traffic participants.
Many bucket truck companies offer assistance or escort services to help large loads navigate a variety of roadway conditions and barriers. The bucket truck operator will work with utility companies and highway authorities to raise, lower, or temporarily remove utility wires, traffic control signals, and signs as needed.

There are numerous lift truck companies, but when it comes to aiding with overhead wires and signs, it's critical that the escort personnel are certified in handling electrified wires and have the proper tools and equipment.

Aside from OSHA rules, there is no standardized national requirement for operator certification. Some states need certification, and others even licenses. Certain states have their own lift operator occupational safety and health programs, while others focus solely on federal OSHA requirements. Some states require bucket operators to have licenses or certificates, while others have no official licensing or certification procedure.

Even if no standardization exists on a federal level, it is still needed to pass a certification process. All lift operators must be trained and qualified due to the dangers of utilizing one. This sort of machinery requires numerous types of training, including instructions on how to use the controls. Workers are taught about potential hazards and how to prevent them. The training also teaches how maximum load capacity works and how to conduct routine inspections. When employing a lift operator, employers may require confirmation of certification or verify that the operator undergoes the necessary training. Operators may develop and implement their own OSHA-compliant training and certification program. A Certified Operator card is given to workers who have completed OSHA-approved training.

See also:

Transportation Backbone

Blog — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Flatbed trailers are the most adaptable hauling trailers on the market. The standard flatbed trailer and the step-deck flatbed are the two most popular flatbed trailers. A flatbed can transport practically any goods if properly loaded, secured, and protected.

A standard flatbed trailer is 48' long and 8'6" wide, with over 400 square feet of load-supporting surface. The flatbed's top is usually 58" above the road's surface. The maximum height for a load on most roads in most states is 13'6" from the road surface to the top of the load. This means that any load on the truck that is more than 8'6" above the deck is considered oversize.

A step-deck trailer is a flatbed with two hauling decks. Because of its design this implies the lower deck may carry a weight up to 10 feet high without requiring any oversize permits.

Flatbeds, both standard and step-down, frequently transport enormous loads that require oversize permits, as well as "Oversize Load" banners, flags indicating the load's corners, nighttime safety lights, and perhaps escort vehicles, depending on the load's size and state restrictions. The specifications vary by state, but the width limit is usually 8'6" and the height limit restriction is 13'6" to 14'6". Any cargo that exceeds the maximum legal width, height, or length allowed by each individual state is considered an oversize load.

A super-load is defined as a load that is more than 16' in width, 16' tall, or 160' long in most states. Route surveys, particular highway routes, restricted travel periods, and different number and types of escort vehicles are among the new safety criteria and expenses for super-loads. Permitting often takes longer, and the entire process need more preparation.

On trucks with extra axles, vehicles can carry weights in excess of 80,000 pounds. Any load weighing more than 80,000 pounds is considered overweight, and operators must get a permit to carry overweight loads, just as they do for oversize loads. Rates for overweight cargoes rise as the load weight rises, and the fees vary by state.

Organizations that carry oversize/overweight cargo on a regular basis, the permission procedure may seem normal, but it does require people who are familiar with the process. If oversize cargoes are only used on occasion, acquiring permissions becomes an additional, time-consuming task. It may be beneficial to hire the services of a company that has expertise acquiring permissions and arranging for other services such as escorts.

See also:

Fuel Taxes

The 5 Key Steps to Trucking Success

Manufactured Housing Transportation

Ocean Containers Transportation

Blog — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Containerized shipping in our increasingly globalized world appears to be an excellent method for delivering a wide range of items. Easy shipment tracking, modular transport, door-to-door shipment, less product handling, reduced theft, and a much less chance of product damage due to excessive handling are all advantages of containerized loads.

The world of international shipping has it's own difficulties. Weight requirements are not standardized over the world, therefore it is possible—and common—for containers to be overfilled, resulting in an overweight load anywhere along the transit route. Trucks in Europe and Asia are frequently allowed to carry higher loads than in the United States. Furthermore, shipping to the United States is hampered by the fact that each state has its own set of maximum overweight rules.

Hauling a containerized load from a shipping port to its final destination may involve additional costs such as overweight permits or splitting the cargo between two containers or two trucks which significantly reduce the primary goal and advantage of containerized shipping.

The maximum weight for a standard loaded 40-ft container, according to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), should not exceed 67,200 lb.

A sealed container shipment is considered a non-divisible cargo in much of the states. However, each state have weight restrictions. Weight limitations for shipments might look arbitrary at times, especially when they differ dramatically between states on seemingly equal highway networks. Each state sets and enforces weight limitations for safety reasons. They are used to regulate the weight of vehicles on the road for structural and environmental concerns.

If a load exceeds weight restrictions in a state, it should be planned ahead and take into consideration the implications of dividing the load before entering that state. Sometimes would be more viable just to go around and avoid some sates that would involve splitting the cargo which would increase the overall expenses. A truck traveling through multiple states must abide to all state rules. Axle difficulties account for more than half of all overweight infractions in the United States, and they're usually caused by unequal weight distribution inside the container. The distribution of the load within the container, which causes one axle to exceed the 20,000-lb individual axle weight restriction, is one of the most prevalent causes of a weight violation.

Several states have authorized specific haul routes for overweight sealed containers to safeguard state highway infrastructure and facilitate efficient transit of containers from shipping ports to intermodal transfer facilities. Non-divisible cargoes that are overweight can travel on these authorized routes with overweight permits.

The discrepancy between states on weight limits are not only difficult for trucking businesses, but it also stymies the flow of foreign commodities throughout the country. More consistent state weight limitations on federal level might improve trucking operational efficiency, lower overall expenses for businesses and increase productivity.

See also:

Claims, Liabilities and Risks

Brokers and Oversize/Overweight Loads

Ocean Containers Transportation

Claims, Liabilities and Risks

Blog — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

When cargo is put into your vehicle and the bill of lading is signed, you are solely responsible and liable for the shipment. If the load is damaged, or is rejected for any reasonable reason, or if it is stolen in route, the driver will be responsible for the damaged, rejected, or undelivered load. Because it was in the driver's custody as the carrier, either the owner of the trucking firm or the owner-operator of the vehicle will be held liable for the cargo.

A claim may be lodged against the carrier even if the cargo was delivered in excellent condition with a clean bill of lading, and it is the carrier's job to assess and react in writing in at least 30 days or risk being held accountable for the claim. This is why it is in the carriers' best interests to record each stage of the process and gather as much evidence as possible in order to protect yourself and your drivers from fraudulent claims.

Improper cargo securement, trucking accidents, in route damage, and theft are the primary causes of cargo loss and responsibility claims.

Accidents create delays, may render the power unit inoperable, and can result in catastrophic damage to the vehicle and its cargo. In any event, if the cargo is not destroyed, it will be delayed, and the fact that it was involved in an accident may result in the commodities being rejected merely because the receiving agency may consider the likelihood of undiscovered damage and deny the shipment.

A claim may be filed if the cargo is damaged for any cause, including loading, unloading, and movement of a load that is not adequately secured. Crushed edges of cardboard boxes, other indicators of possible damage, broken or pierced shrink-wrap, or evidence of water damage or other fluid leaks are all legitimate grounds for a consignment to be refused. Spoilage or late delivery of any perishable items, where prompt delivery and/or adequate temperature management are required to assure freshness or suitability for the customer's company, are other examples of damage.

Cargo theft is reported to be a $15-$30 billion issue in the United States each year. Cargo liability insurance will cover the loss of a cargo due to theft if the carrier has taken all reasonable precautions to avoid the theft. It's worth noting that some of the theft occurs in intermediary sites like warehouses and transfer stations rather than immediately from the carrying vehicle. Trucks are nevertheless vulnerable to break-ins, hijackings, and theft.

Cargo liability insurance protects the value of these cargo's and prevents carriers and drivers with their own authority from being held accountable for cargo loss or damage. To be clear, this is cargo liability insurance, which protects you against the loss or damage of the goods you're transporting. This is not standard accident liability insurance, which covers injuries to third parties as well as loss or damage to the injured person's property—it does not cover the loss of the cargo's value.

The most prevalent causes of freight damage include improper securement or other damage during loading, transit, and unloading. Cargo that isn't adequately secured with enough or defective mechanisms, or protective equipment like edge guards, dunnage, blankets, or tarps. When loading and unloading a vehicle, items not securely secured on pallets, broken pallets, or incorrectly stacked stuff might easily slide off, particularly if personnel are in a hurry.

There are a variety of reasons why cargo might be damaged or spoilt, as well as a variety of methods that damage can occur. Packaging may be a problem, particularly for one-of-a-kind or uniquely-shaped goods for which bespoke packaging does not blend in with other things. Protecting these one-of-a-kind goods requires extra caution from packers and carriers. This is why it is the driver's obligation to record each stage of the process and inspect the cargo being loaded.

See also:

Transportation Backbone

Manufactured Housing Transportation

Brokers and Oversize/Overweight Loads

Highway permits: FAQ

Blog — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

If you have started your trucking business then you will need special trucking permits for your service. Having these permits means that you’ve met all the regulations and rules for the USA and every state in particular. While our website can help you avoid all the hassle of getting these permits there are some basic things you will have to know before getting on the road.

What are the rules for the U.S. routes?

Each state has its own set of rules regarding trucking with overweight or oversized vehicles and you won’t find any federal permits for that. But several rules cover the weight and the size of your load. You will need to consider these regulations even if there are no specific rules for width, length, and height of your load for the particular state you’re driving through.

There are some typical rules you’ll have to meet if you’re planning to work within the U.S. borders:

The standard width of a highway lane is 12 feet
Loads exceeding 8'6" feet wide are considered oversize and require a state permit
The maximum height limit is 13'6" to 14'6" feet depending on the state
Loads exceeding 12 feet wide may require pilot or escort vehicles (P/EV)
Loads over 16 feet wide are considered super loads and may require road closures in addition to an escort vehicle or police attendant

Are there any rules regarding crossing bridges?

You should calculate the Bridge weight formula for your vehicle so you’ll be able to cross the bridges that could come across your route. This formula is presented in the following equation:

W=500(LN/N-1 + 12N + 36)

W = overall gross weight on any group of two or more consecutive axles to the nearest 500 pounds
L = distance in feet between the extreme of any group of two or more consecutive axles
N = number of axles in the group under consideration

Are there any specific situations when I will need a permit?

Yes, and there are several of them:

International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA)

Applies to all vehicles with:

Two (2) axles weighing over 26,000 pounds or
Vehicles with three (3) or more axles regardless of weight, traveling in two or more states.

Note: When traveling to a state in which a vehicle does not hold an IFTA decal and license, a temporary fuel permit is needed.

International Registration Plan (IRP)

Also applies to all vehicles with:

Two (2) axles weighing over 26,000 pounds or
Vehicles with three (3) or more axles regardless of weight, traveling in two or more states.

Note: As with the IFTA, when traveling to a state in which a vehicle is not registered under IRP, a temporary trip permit is needed.

Overweight/Oversize Permits

If a vehicle is oversize or overweight, a temporary permit is needed. This permit authorizes movement according to vehicle configurations and weight.

A permit may be required if:

Overall vehicle height exceeds 13’6″
Overall vehicle width exceeds 8’6″
Trailer length exceeds 48′
Overall vehicle weight exceeds 80,000 pounds.

See also:

Fuel Taxes

How to get permits in minimal time

The 5 key steps to trucking success

Blog — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Starting a trucking company is not an easy task. It requires time, investments, and good managing skills. But with enough persistence and good planning, you’ll be able to succeed. Here are 5 steps for starting your successful trucking company:

Make sure you have enough funds.

A trucking company requires funding. You should have enough money to cover all that you need - for specific permits, vehicles, etc. This is why you should carefully plan your budget and be prepared for any unexpected expenses. We recommend you have a clear view of your funding plan and sometimes if you don’t know what’s to expect it’s best to learn from the others.

In case you don’t have enough funds it’s a good idea to use a home equity credit line or a bank loan. While sometimes it may sound risky to use loans, etc. it can seriously boost your business performance right from the start.

2. Take your time when it comes to buying or loaning trucks.

Trucks are essential for your trucking business. So it is very important to think carefully when you’re purchasing a truck. So take your time and try looking for the best deals for the money you have. A good truck will serve you well for a long time and you won’t need to worry about anything if you buy a good one.

3. Purchase insurance for your trucks and other assets.

You can never be sure that everything will go well, but proper insurance will make you feel comfortable and safe. So it’s very important to include insurance in your financial plan. There are plenty of insurance options available on the market so you can choose the one that is best for your business.

4. Care about your drivers.

While trucks are very important for your business you won’t be able to make any progress without good drivers. So it’s essential to find drivers with appropriate skills and experience and keep them motivated so they won’t quit. We recommend you check your driver’s crash-history and ask about their previous background. After that, once you have hired them you need to care about motivating them and keeping a healthy working environment. Also, a good performance-based bonus policy will keep them working for you.

5. Save money, but do it smart

It’s always wise not to spend your funds recklessly. And one of the things where you can save money is fuel. A fuel card can help you spend less because fuel is a big part of any trucking company’s expenses. There are plenty of companies that offer different fuel card options and you can find the one that fits you the most and that will eventually help you save a lot.

See also:

Fuel Taxes

How to get your permits in minimal time with less paperwork?

Blog — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

If you own a trucking company in the US sometimes it can be very hard and time-consuming to get all the required permits. As you may know, each state has its own rules and regulations and it can be quite tricky to get them all. This is why our company offers solutions to help you avoid all the hassle and minimize the things you have to do to get these permits.

The main problem with trucking permits is that you have to fill every required form for each state and it may take a lot of your time. Here at Xpedite, you will need to do it only once and no additional work will be required.

There are 3 simple steps if you want to get your permits:

Submit your request on our website and fill the application form. Please include all the needed info with exact freight parameters.
All the logistic work is done automatically by the website.
Get your permits and your route map.

Besides that, there are several things you need to know before filling our form. You should know your freight parameters as they will be used for your permits. As they cannot be altered we recommend you to carefully study our permit form and then double-check the information it requires. This may include:

Your overall load dimensions
Load type
Load model number
Power unit type
Axle information

Also, you can build your own route map on our website or by using our mobile app. All the permits will be adjusted automatically according to your route map. If you’re using the mobile app you can save your route map and it will be saved in your account.

See also:

Complete Guide to Driver's Logbook

Blog — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Every truck driver must have a logbook and it must be completed following local rules and regulations. Sometimes drivers require help with completing the logbook and this guide was made to assist them.

Every logbook that you're using must be signed with your name. That includes the cover of the logbook and every page that you're using. It's also crucial to write the date on the page you're currently using. Besides that, there are additional things you have to complete: your vehicle's registration number, the exact timing for your rest breaks and your working hours, your exact location, and the recorder readings from the start to the finish. While these things may seem not very important, they make your activity log precise and easy to read. It will make it very easy for you, your employer, or anybody else to understand where, when, and what you do on your job.

PERIOD OF RECORDING
A logbook must be a continuous record of work time and rest time within a cumulative work period (“working week”). Logbook pages within a cumulative work period must consistently start at midnight or midday, as set by the first cumulative workday within that cumulative work period. For example, if you start on the first day back at work on a midnight sheet, then every other page for that “working week” must also be a midnight sheet until you take the next 24-hour break. It is recommended that you circle noon or midnight at the top of the logbook page to indicate when the page commences. Logbook entries must: • Show the extent of the cumulative workday and the cumulative work period • Record when the most recent 10-hour break was taken • Record the period back to (and including) the last 24-hour break • Be maintained until the next 24-hour break is taken at the end of the cumulative work period • Be accurate, clearly legible and unambiguous

WHAT MUST BE RECORDED AFTER A DAY OFF
On the first day of a new cumulative work period, you must record the dates of all days off duty, including annual leave or sick leave, or any other natural days when you haven’t worked. It is also recommended that you enter the date of the “End of last 24-hour break” in the space provided. Note: This is the date that you commence work again. Note: A natural day means 24 hours that begins at midnight one day and ends at midnight the following day.

UNEXPECTED DELAYS
Delaying events arising out of circumstances that could not reasonably have been foreseen, or an emergency, can be recorded in your logbook and can be used as a defense against any charge for breaching work time and/or rest time requirements.

See also:

How to get permits in minimal time

The 5 Key Steps to Trucking Success