Delivery of oversized cargo: types, transport and features of transportation

International transportation of oversized cargo is one of the most complex types of delivery. It is important to plan the entire transportation process in accordance with the characteristics of the cargo, the rules and regulations governed by law, and to obtain the appropriate permits. In this article, we'll look at what oversized cargo is, what it can be, and what kind of transport to choose for this type of transportation- auto delivery or freight transportation by sea.

The concept of oversized cargo

Oversized cargo is defined as cargo whose physical dimensions exceed the permissible standard values, so it requires special means and conditions for transportation.

They have the following dimensions:

• height - more than 4 meters;
• length - more than 20 meters (an overhang of 2 meters is allowed if the total length does not exceed 20 meters);
• width - more than 2.55 meters;
• by weight - more than 38 tons.

Oversized cargo is properly called bulky or heavy cargo. In international practice, the term "oversize cargo" is used. Most often, agricultural and military equipment, specialized equipment, excavators, yachts, etc. fall into this category.

Types of oversized cargo

Oversized cargo is characterized by non-standard dimensions

Since there is a huge number of non-standard cargoes, it is customary to divide them into several categories:

• Oversized cargo. It exceeds one of the LxWxH indicators specified in the regulatory document.
• Long cargo. It protrudes beyond the rear side of the vehicle by more than 2 meters or has a length of more than 20 meters.
• Overweight cargo. Exceeds the maximum permissible weight when loaded.

It is impossible to transport oversized cargo with standard vehicles, so it is important to choose the right vehicle for delivery.

Transport for the transportation of oversized cargo

Overhead arches and tarpaulin of the Open Top container ensure complete safety of goods inside

Transportation of oversized cargo by sea is in demand. Two types of non-standard containers are used for this purpose:

1. Flat Rack - these heavy-duty containers have two walls that are either fixed or can be folded to form a flat base for placing goods that exceed their height and width.
2. Open Top - have a removable roof made of steel arcs and tarpaulin, which allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo with a crane. Open top containers are suitable for the transportation of goods such as glass and marble blocks, stone chips and bulk materials.

In some cases, transportation of oversized cargo is carried out by road, which requires the support of the traffic police.

Features of Oversized Cargo Transportation

When planning a route, many factors are considered, especially for road transport:
Height restrictions of bridges, power lines, the strength of road surfaces, and the available space for maneuvering in difficult sections (narrow roads, sharp turns).
Special fastenings (chains, ropes, straps) are used to prevent shifting. Particularly large items are escorted by road police.
For safety reasons, some shipments are carried out at night or during hours with minimal traffic intensity. This may affect the delivery time. Speed limits are also imposed on the vehicle.
Weather conditions. Rain, snow, or strong winds may increase risks and affect the choice of time.
Oversized cargo is very challenging in logistics, so choose reliable partners who can create all the conditions for safe transportation.

Basic requirements for the transportation of oversized cargo

Agricultural and construction equipment is usually transported as oversized cargo.

Each stage of oversized transportation has its own specifics, complexity and risk. To store oversized cargo, it is necessary to allocate a large area and then plan the route with special care. Transportation requires a special permit, and the equipment must meet the established standards and requirements.

Ocean freight

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When organizing oversized transportation, you should consider the following:

• during sea transportation, buy out the places where there are protruding parts of the goods under the container;
• the vehicle should not be an obstacle on the road, and other road users should be able to move freely;
• before starting to move, install an appropriate transportation sign on the extreme part of the cargo that protrudes beyond the vehicle;
• the permissible dimensions of oversized cargo by car: the length of the car should not exceed 22 meters and the height should not exceed 4 meters.

The transportation of oversized cargo is governed by rules that may differ depending on the country in which the cargo is transported.

Whether you need to import construction or agricultural equipment or a production line from the country of origin, DiFFreight has the solutions you need. We will help you transport any category of oversized products, regardless of weight and configuration, ensuring their safety.

Restrictions and Penalties for Oversized Cargo Transport

Since routes to Ukraine are now multimodal with delivery through Poland, let’s consider the fines for transporting oversized cargo in this country (all prices may vary due to the introduction of new regulations or certain situations):

• Lack of permit — 15,000 PLN (approximately 3,300 EUR).
• Exceeding the axle weight limit — 20,000 PLN (approximately 5,500 EUR).
• Exceeding the total weight, length, or height of the vehicle — 15,000 PLN (approximately 3,300 EUR).
• Minor weight overrun (up to 10%) — up to 6,000 PLN (approximately 1,300 EUR), and moderate (from 10% to 20%) — up to 10,000 PLN (approximately 2,200 EUR).

Even a single violation can be costly, so it’s worth studying the regulations of the country through which the road transit passes.

How to Avoid Problems When Transporting Oversized Cargo

If you need international logistics services for the transportation of construction, agricultural equipment or a production line, DiFFreight will select the necessary solutions. We will help you transport any category of oversized products, regardless of weight and configuration, ensuring their safety. Our specialists will prepare all permits and ensure that the cargo complies with EU regulations on oversized transportation.
We also offer customs broker services if you are interested in fast customs clearance and successful duty payment.