Everything You Wanted to Know About Shipping Oversized Vehicles

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Considered an Oversized Vehicle?
3. Understanding Regulations and Permits
4. Choosing the Right Shipping Method
5. Costs Involved in Shipping Oversized Vehicles
6. Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport
7. Working with Professional Transport Companies
8. Safety Considerations
9. Conclusion

Summary

Shipping oversized vehicles can be challenging, but understanding the process, costs, permits, and safety requirements can simplify it. This blog covers everything you need to know about transporting oversized vehicles shipping in Canada.

Introduction

In Canada, vehicles of all sizes can be transported irrespective of their sizes. So, it is perfectly legal to go for vehicle shipping in Canada for your tractors, RVs and even construction equipment. All you need to make sure is that you have done careful planning and followed all the strict compliance with provincial and national regulations. To help you, here is a detailed guide on understanding how to transport oversized vehicles through transport companies. 

What is Considered an Oversized Vehicle?

To start with, let’s first understand what is considered an oversized vehicle. Vehicles that exceed the following standard dimensions or weight limits for regular transport are considered to be oversized vehicles. 

• Length: Over 12.5 metres
• Width: Over 2.6 metres
• Height: Over 4.15 metres
• Weight: Varies by province, but generally over 63,500 kg combined gross weight

This criterion may differ from province to province. Hence before contacting any vehicle shipping company, you should know about the requirements for your province, and the province you are sending the vehicle to. 

Understanding Regulations and Permits

As mentioned above, going for oversized vehicle shipping in Canada involves specific permits and compliance with regional laws. Here are some key aspects of them:

• Oversized Load Permits: Required for vehicles exceeding legal size limits.
• Pilot Vehicles: Escort vehicles may be mandated to ensure road safety.
• Travel Restrictions: Transport may be limited to daylight hours or specific routes.

The best authority to consult is the Ministry of transportation. You will find the specific rules on their website. Your transportation company will also help you in this regard. 

Choosing the Right Shipping Method

The next important thing to know about shipping oversized vehicles is of course the mode of transportation. Common options include:

• Flatbed Trailers: Suitable for large but less tall vehicles.
• Lowboy Trailers: Ideal for heavy equipment with high clearance needs.
• Drive-Away Services: For operable oversized vehicles.

Selecting the correct transport ensures cost efficiency and compliance. Discuss with your vehicle shipping Canada company before selecting the right option.

Costs Involved in Shipping Oversized Vehicles

Several factors influence costs:

• Distance: Longer distances mean higher transport costs.
• Size and Weight: Heavier and larger vehicles require specialized equipment.
• Permits and Escorts: Additional expenses for obtaining permits and hiring pilot vehicles.
• Seasonal Demand: Costs may rise during peak seasons.

To get the best price, always obtain multiple quotes from different transport companies and compare them. 

Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport

Proper preparation minimizes risks during transit:

• Remove any loose parts or accessories.
• Secure all moving parts like doors or hatches.
• Ensure the vehicle is clean for inspection.
• Document the vehicle’s condition with photographs.

Effective preparation protects your vehicle and facilitates a smoother process.

Working with Professional Transport Companies

Partnering with an experienced transport company for your vehicle shipping in Canada will simplify the process. Look for companies with:

• Expertise in oversized vehicle transport
• Proper licenses and insurance coverage
• Positive reviews and references

It is only with a reliable provider that you can get your vehicle transported in a timely and safe manner.

Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount when shipping oversized vehicles. Key safety measures include:

• Properly securing the vehicle to the trailer.
• Using the appropriate equipment to prevent accidents.
• Ensuring compliance with all traffic regulations and route planning.

Always make sure the company you are choosing keeps safety as their no 1 priority while transporting your oversized vehicle. 

Conclusion

Shipping vehicles in Canada that are oversized requires thorough planning, regulatory compliance, and choosing the right transport method. Working with professionals and understanding the costs, permits, and safety requirements ensures a hassle-free experience. With this guide, you are well-equipped to manage the process effectively.