Each state dictates its own regulations regarding transport loads and maximum heights, weights and widths, Kenny reminded. However, he listed a couple standard regulations for size and weight. “Any load that goes over 8 feet in width – you have to have a permit for it,” he said. “Same for any weight over 80,000 pounds on a tractor-trailer. In addition, any load over 16 feet high needs to be bonded, insured, and requires a police escort, because of the higher potential for damage during transport, he continued.
As a rule of thumb for smaller trucks, if the total weight of the tree and truck weighs more than the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight, take the truck to a certified mechanic to rate the truck and ensure the vehicle can handle the weight, he suggested. Remember, if the tree is wet or damp, the moisture will contribute weight to the entire load, Kenny added. “We have portable scales so we can weigh the truck – the weight tends to differ with loads if [the tree] is wet or dry.”
In addition, contractors need to perform test-runs of the intended transport routes to check for obstacles, Kenny noted. “If the load is too high, we have to take certain rotes to avoid low bridges, construction areas, low power lines, low utility lines, etc.” he said. “We do a survey of the routes and map out the routes before we even get a permit.” States differ on the signs required for oversize loads as well, so check for needed signage and lights before making the tree trek, Kenny added.
Since navigating through the web of transport rules and regulations can be frustrating and confusing, Kenny suggested consulting with a permit service to ensure all state standards for the trip have been met. “Then we just pay them a fee and tell them what we’re doing, and they figure out the permits and routes,” he stated.
The author is Assistant Editor – Internet of Lawn & Landscape magazine.