
Oversize load signs are a crucial aspect of navigating roads safely, especially for oversized vehicles and loads. These signs provide critical information to drivers, warning them of potential hazards and restrictions.
The size and weight of an oversized load can vary greatly, with some loads reaching up to 160 feet in length and 16 feet in width. This can be a significant challenge for drivers, who must carefully plan their route and consider the potential risks of navigating narrow roads.
In some cases, oversized loads may be restricted from traveling on certain roads or during specific times of the day. For example, some routes may be closed to oversized loads during rush hour or peak traffic times.
What Is a Wide Load Sign?
A wide load sign is a yellow mesh banner with black lettering that indicates the cargo on a flatbed trailer is wider than the limits set by the Department of Transportation.
You'll need a special hauling permit issued by the state DOT to haul an oversize load.
Requirements and Regulations
Almost all states require a sign at the front and back of your truck when hauling an oversize load.
You'll also need flags at all 4 corners of the truck, and extra flags on the widest sections of the load.
Check the link below to get exact location and requirements for your next trip.
Since most states don't have a maximum size, it's a good idea to get an 18X84 sign to cover yourself for all states.
This page is updated as of October 2024, so be sure to check back to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
Usage and Best Practices
Using an oversize load sign without a load is technically legal, but it's best practice to use them when actually carrying an oversized load to avoid confusion on the road.
To use an oversize load sign effectively, consider the following tips.
Always use an oversize load sign when carrying an oversized load to alert other drivers and avoid confusion on the road.
It's best to use an oversize load sign in a way that clearly indicates the size of the load being transported, helping to prevent accidents and ensure a safe journey.
Here are some guidelines for using an oversize load sign:
- Appropriate Use: Use an oversize load sign when carrying an oversized load.
Customization and Safety
You can tailor your Oversize Load Ahead Sign to fit your specific needs with a wide range of customization options.
Color is one of the many customization options available, allowing you to choose a sign that matches your company's branding or complements your vehicle's color scheme.
Lift mechanisms are another customization option, ensuring that your sign is easy to deploy and retrieve.
Having a customizable sign is especially useful if you need to transport different types of loads, as you can simply swap out the sign to match the load.
A well-designed sign can also enhance safety by making it clear to other road users that a large load is being transported.
Lighting features are also available for customization, providing increased visibility in low-light conditions.
By choosing a sign with the right lighting features, you can help ensure that your load is visible to other drivers and reduce the risk of accidents.
Description
This oversize load sign is a reliable road companion, offering great flexibility with its reversible design. You can flip it to display either "Oversize Load" or "Wide Load" depending on your needs.
The sign is designed to be visible from a distance, measuring 18″ x 7′-10″ in size. This makes it easy to spot from afar.
The material used is a durable mesh that provides weather resistance, ensuring the sign remains effective even in harsh conditions. I've seen signs get damaged quickly in the rain, so this is a great feature.
The bold black stencil letters comply with most DOT regulations, giving you peace of mind that you're meeting the necessary standards. This is especially important if you're transporting oversized loads in areas with strict regulations.
The sign is also reversible, with "OVERSIZE LOAD" on one side and "WIDE LOAD" on the other. This is super convenient, as you can easily switch the sign to suit your needs.
The installation process is also made easy with brass grommets in the corners, making it simple to mount the sign securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color flag for oversize load?
For oversize loads, a solid red or fluorescent orange flag or cloth is required, measuring at least 18 inches square. This flag must be displayed at the extreme end of the load.
What is considered oversized in trucking?
In trucking, oversized loads are typically considered anything wider than 8.5 feet, with shipments exceeding 12 feet wide often requiring additional pilot vehicles. This can impact transportation logistics and regulations.
What is the difference between superload and oversize load?
An oversized load exceeds standard transportation limits, while a superload is an even larger shipment requiring special DOT permission
What is the maximum width for an oversize load?
An oversize load is any load wider than 8.5 feet. Loads exceeding this width typically require a state permit to travel on public highways
Sources
- https://www.myteeproducts.com/general-cargo-control/wide-load-signs-accessories.html
- https://www.eztruckstore.com/blogs/news/oversize-load-sign-requirements-by-state
- https://www.lodimetals.com/oversize-load-signs
- https://aggear.odoo.com/shop/oversize-load-ahead-pilot-vehicle-sign-71
- https://tarpman.com/products/oversizewide-load-signs
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