Abnormal loads. When the cargo is out of gauge.
Pieces too long, wide, tall or heavy for a standard truck: we start with feasibility, apply for permits, plan the route and arrange special vehicles and shipping.
Plan first, then move.
An abnormal load is settled on paper before it reaches the road: dimensions, weight, centre of gravity, lifting points and access at loading and unloading. Those figures drive the choice of vehicle, the permit applications and the route.
Site survey and feasibility
We check the piece, its lifting points and access at origin and destination, so we know straight away whether and how it can be moved.
Transit permits
We apply for abnormal load authorisations and run the journey in line with the conditions attached to them.
Planned route
We study the itinerary around bridges, bends, height limits and restrictions, in Italy and across Europe.
Special vehicles and escorts
We choose the special vehicle that suits the load and, where the conditions require it, arrange escort vehicles along the route.
Out-of-gauge shipping
By sea the piece travels on a flat rack, in an open top or as conventional break bulk cargo, depending on dimensions, weight and the carrier's service.
Plants and large structures
Plant components, structures and large machines, including loads split into several coordinated moves under a single contact.
See also: Road freight · Sea freight · Machinery shipping · Container guide · Logistics and warehousing · Destinations · Request a quote
From survey to unloading.
Every abnormal load has its own plan.
Data and survey
Dimensions, weight, centre of gravity and access: we gather the data and, if needed, come to see the piece.
Transport plan
Vehicle, route and shipping method: we put forward a solution and finalise it with you.
Permits and escorts
We apply for transit authorisations and book escort vehicles where required.
Journey and unloading
Loading, transit, shipping if needed and unloading at destination, with your contact always reachable.
Questions about abnormal loads.
When is a load classed as abnormal?
When its dimensions or weight exceed the limits for normal road traffic, so a transit authorisation is needed. From the details of the piece we can tell you whether yours falls into this category and what it involves.
Who applies for abnormal load permits?
We do, together with the route: authorisations depend on the itinerary and may come with conditions, for example on travel times or escort vehicles. That is why the route is planned before the permits are requested.
When are escort vehicles needed?
When the conditions of the authorisation require them, usually for the bulkiest loads or for certain stretches of the route. We arrange them and coordinate them with the rest of the journey.
How do you ship out-of-gauge cargo by sea?
If the piece exceeds the dimensions of a closed container, it goes on a flat rack or in an open top, or is shipped as conventional cargo, known as break bulk. We choose with you based on dimensions, weight and port, through our direct contracts with the main shipping lines.
Do you carry out a site survey before the move?
Yes, when it is needed. Seeing the piece and the loading and unloading access avoids surprises on the day. Drawings, measurements and photos are often enough: we review them and tell you whether a visit is required.
