Oversized, over-standard transport, also known as non-standard transport. Our team will organize the entire process and the necessary permits for the transport of oversized goods. Do you have loads that go beyond ordinary car sets, large-size, heavy or long? We will organize for you - transport for you.
A comprehensive guide to oversize transport in Poland
Oversize transport is an integral part of the logistics industry, which allows for the transportation of cargo that exceeds standard dimensions. In Poland, as in other countries, oversize transport is strictly regulated by regulations and requires adequate preparation and dedicated knowledge. In this article, we will introduce you to issues related to oversize transport, such as definitions, regulations, organization, costs and the Polish and international markets.
What is oversize transport?
Service: oversize transport is the carriage of cargoes with dimensions and weights exceeding the permissible standards for standard transport vehicles. Such cargo may include infrastructure elements, industrial machinery, construction structures and other items of unusual size and heavy weight.
Definition and characteristics of oversize transports
Oversize shipments refer to cargo whose dimensions, weight or shape exceed the permissible standards for standard transport vehicles. Oversize cargo can include industrial machinery, steel structures, bridge components, wind turbines or even houses. Oversize transportation requires dedicated vehicles, proper route planning and obtaining the necessary permits.
Differences between oversize and abnormal transportation
Although oversize transport in Poland and oversize transport share many common features, there are some differences between them. Oversize vehicle traffic refers to the transportation of cargo that exceeds standards, but does not necessarily require dedicated vehicles or permits. Abnormal transport may involve the carriage of cargo that is slightly larger than standard dimensions, but not as large as in the case of oversize transport.
Types of cargo requiring oversize transport
Oversize cargo can be divided into several categories, depending on their characteristics. Here are some of them:
- Oversized loads of large dimensions, such as steel structures, bridges or wind turbine components.
- Heavy-duty cargo, such as industrial machinery or generators.
- Oversize cargo can also be loads of unusual shape that make them difficult to transport with standard vehicles.
- Cargoes that require oversized transportation can also include high-value cargo that requires dedicated transportation and security measures.
The specifics of transporting different types of oversized cargo can vary, so it is important that each case is properly prepared and secured.
Oversize transport in Poland
Oversize transport in Poland, as in many other countries, is strictly regulated according to EU standards, due to potential problems with safety and road infrastructure. This transport involves the carriage of goods of large size or weight that exceed standard dimensional restrictions. Standard dimensional restrictions in Poland are:
- Maximum width: 2.55 meters
- Maximum height: 4 meters
- Maximum length for a motor vehicle: 16.5 meters
- Maximum length for a combination of vehicles: 18.75 meters
If a shipment exceeds these limitations, a special oversize transport permit is required. Oversize transportation also requires proper planning. An oversize transport permit must be issued by the relevant authorities, and the route must be planned to avoid low bridges, narrow roads or other potential obstacles.
Omida, as an experienced transportation company and organizer of domestic and international transports, provides appropriate signage and safety measures such as accompanying vehicles, light markings and flags. We also use modular axles on specially adapted transport platforms. Such an improvement allows us to transport both long components such as a wind turbine propeller and massive prefabricated components.
Permits authorizing oversize transportation
The transportation of oversized cargo is regulated by law, both at the national and EU levels. In Poland, a special permit is required if the cargo exceeds standard dimensional or bulk limitations. Permits for oversize transport are issued by the General Directorate of National Roads and Highways (GDDKiA). The process of obtaining such a permit requires meeting certain conditions and providing the required documents.
Pilotage during oversize transport
Oversize transport pilotage is a service that ensures the safe and efficient transportation of abnormally sized cargo. Pilotage can involve one or more people, known as road transport pilots, who drive in front of or behind the vehicle carrying the oversized cargo to ensure it reaches its destination safely. During oversize transport, pilots perform several key functions:
-Communicating: The pilot can communicate with the driver of the vehicle carrying the load to help with navigation, inform about potential obstacles on the road or signal other problems that may affect the safety of the trip. - Ensuring safety: The pilot can help the cargo-carrying vehicle maneuver safely through busy intersections, narrow streets, tunnels, bridges or construction sites. - Informing other traffic participants: A pilot vehicle is usually equipped with special signage and light signals to inform other traffic participants of the approaching oversize transport. This may also include informing other drivers via CB radio. - Assistance with traffic organization: In some cases, the pilot may assist in securing or temporarily closing traffic to allow the safe transport of oversize cargo.
In Poland, as in other countries, pilot vehicles must comply with certain regulations and licensing requirements. In the case of very large loads, oversize transport may be accompanied by police or other road service.
Oversize transport tailored to oversize shipments
Oversize cargo transportation requires dedicated equipment and technology to ensure safety and efficiency. Among the different types of trailers used in oversize transport, we can distinguish:
1. Ordinary trailers - these are typical trailers used for transporting various types of goods. Although they are not specifically designed to carry oversized cargo, they can be used to transport certain types of larger cargo. 2. Mega trailers - these are trailers with a greater height, which allow them to carry taller loads without exceeding dimensional limits. 3. Jumbo semi-trailers with a lowered floor - these trailers have a lowered cargo area, which allows them to carry higher loads without exceeding standard dimensional limits. 4. Long-floor trailers - these are trailers with an extended cargo area, which are ideal for transporting long loads such as beams, pipes or industrial machinery. 5. Low-floor multi-axle trailers - these are semi-trailers with a reduced profile and increased number of axles, which allow heavy and high-volume cargo to be carried while maintaining a low center of gravity. 6. Sunken trailers - similar to low-floor trailers, these trailers have a sunken cargo area that allows them to carry high loads. 7. Industrial machinery trailers - these are specially designed trailers that can carry heavy industrial machinery. They can have special features such as a movable floor or safety mechanisms. 8. Tank trailers - these trailers are designed to carry large tanks or silos. They may have special safety features to hold the tank in place during transport.
Organization and realization of oversize transport
The organization of oversize transport and oversize road transport are processes that require adequate preparation, planning and coordination. When transporting oversize cargo, it is crucial to take into account the specifics of the transport and to comply with any restrictions imposed by regulations and road conditions.
Route planning and activities accompanying oversize transports
Route planning for oversize transport is extremely important, as it requires consideration of many factors, such as travel routes, height and width restrictions, road availability and weather conditions. When planning the route, the carrier must also take into account the activities that accompany oversize transport, such as coordination with other parties involved in the transport, obtaining the appropriate permits and securing the cargo.
The role of the driver and pilot in oversize transportation
The role of the oversize transport driver and the oversize transport pilot are crucial to the safe and efficient transportation of oversize cargo. An oversize driver must be properly licensed and experienced in driving an oversize cargo vehicle. Who can drive an oversize cargovehicle depends on the country's regulations and the carrier's requirements.
Who can be an oversize transport pilot also depends on the regulations and the carrier's requirements. The pilot is responsible for monitoring the route, communicating with the driver, and coordinating cargo transportation activities. In some cases, the pilot may also be responsible for operating dedicated equipment, such as cranes or jacks.
Challenges and roadblocks in transporting oversized cargo
Oversize transportation tailored to the dimensions and specifics of the cargo is one of the most important aspects of transporting oversized cargo. During transportation, a carrier may encounter various oversize transport challenges and road obstacles, such as height and width restrictions, narrow streets, curves or weather-related difficulties.
In order to meet these challenges, the carrier must carefully plan the route and comply with any restrictions imposed by regulations and road conditions. Cooperation with other parties involved in transportation, such as road authorities, police or other services, can also help ensure the smooth and safe transportation of oversized cargo.
Oversize transport costs and prices
The price of oversize transport and the cost of oversize transport services depend on a number of factors, such as the dimensions and weight of the cargo, the route of travel, and the need to obtain permits. In this article, we will discuss in detail what factors affect the cost of oversize transport and how it can be estimated.
Price of oversize transport service - influencing factors
The price of oversize transport service depends on several key factors, such as:
- cargo weight - the greater the weight of the cargo, the higher the cost of transportation;
- total weight of the vehicle - a higher weight of the vehicle may affect the need for dedicated equipment or additional safety features;
- vehicle height - taller vehicles may require special permits or route modifications;
- vehicle length - longer vehicles may make it more difficult to maneuver on roads, which can affect the cost of transportation.
It is worth noting that the price of transportation may also depend on other factors, such as demand for transportation services, seasonality or the fuel market situation.
Cost of obtaining oversize transport permits
In the case of oversize transport, it is often necessary to obtain the appropriate permits. The cost of a permit to carry out oversize transport depends on the type of permit and the country in which it is issued. In Poland, the cost of an oversize transport permit can range from several hundred to several thousand zlotys, depending on the type of permit and the dimensions and weight of the cargo.
It is worth remembering that the cost of oversize transport does not include only the cost of obtaining permits, but also the cost of planning the route, securing the cargo, or renting dedicated equipment.
Plan your oversize transport with Omida!
Planning an oversize transport is a process that requires a meticulous analysis of the cargo, vehicle and route planning, taking into account all restrictions and legal requirements. Equally important is obtaining the appropriate permits and, in some cases, pilotage to ensure safe and efficient transportation. All this requires experience, knowledge and skills, which our specialists possess. Trust us with your oversize transport needs, and contact us to learn more about how we can meet your out-of-gauge cargo transportation needs.