Oversize Threshold and Freight Impact
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Hi Team,
I want to send a quick reminder about unit width limits, prompted by the upcoming shipment of Load E883, which was built at 144.5 inches wide.
Why This Matters:
Any load over 102 inches (8 feet 6 inches) in width is considered oversize (OD) in every state. That means even if a unit is 103" wide, it's subject to:
- • Permitting requirements
- • Daylight-only travel restrictions
- • No weekend or holiday movement in most jurisdictions
- • Route restrictions and bridge/clearance checks
We try to keep all units at 143 inches or less because 144 inches (12 feet) is a critical regulatory threshold. Once a load hits 144" or more:
- • It enters a higher risk/penalty category
- • Many states begin to require escort vehicles
- • Freight costs rise significantly due to extra coordination, permits, and escorts
Real-World Example – Load E883:
Load E883 was built at 144.5" wide, pushing it over the 12-foot mark. As a result, it now requires:
- • Permits in every state along the route
- • Escort vehicles in several states
- • Compliance with restricted travel hours
- • An estimated $1,000–$1,500 increase in freight cost
This one example highlights why we don’t build right up to the 144" limit — there’s no margin for error, and the smallest overage can have significant downstream impact.
Design Guideline:
- • Please design and quote units at 143" or less
- • Coordinate early with Transportation if wider designs are being considered
- • Verify final specs before release to avoid costly oversize surprises
Thanks for your attention to this. Even one inch can make a big difference when it comes to shipping efficiency, compliance, and cost.
Best regards,
Regina Marrone
Transportation Manager
P: (770)489-0716 Ext. 1718
F: (678) 766-1039
