Removable gooseneck (RGN) trailers provide a versatile form of transportation that caters for loads that tend to be oversized and heavy and need larger trailers to transport them. They are particularly suited to moving driveable machinery and vehicles as the low base is ideal for easy loading and unloading.
Load boards that include RGN trailers provide an opportunity for shippers and brokers to find carriers who will transport their loads economically. They also help carriers with RGN trailers to find loads when they have capacity or for return trips to maximise their trailers and increase revenue.
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The table below shows a quick price comparison of all the load board solutions that we’ve researched:
Company name | Monthly cost | Free plan |
---|---|---|
Direct Freight Services | From free | Free account & free to post loads |
Landstar | Not stated | No |
Truckstop | From $39/mo | No |
Doft | From free | Free plan |
Loadup | From free | Free for shippers and some carriers |
FreightFinder.com | From free | Free to use |
Atlantic Logistics | Not stated | No |
Brokered Loads | Not stated | No |
Jones Logistics | Not stated | No |
Maverick Transportation | Not stated | Free to use |
Mercer Transportation | Not stated | No |
Online Freight Services | Not stated | No |
Tennessee Steel Haulers | Not stated | No |
Bridgeway | Not stated | No |
Werner | Not stated | No |
FindFreightLoads | Not stated | No |
Coyote Logistics | Not stated | No |
LoadMatch | From free | Free plan and 30 day trial of the paid plan |
ATS | Not stated | No |
FR8Star | Not stated | No |
Shiply | From free | Free to join with fee applied on loads |
Circle Logistics | Not stated | No |
Ivia | From free | Offers a free plan and free trial of the paid plan |
Group One Inc | Not stated | No |
Trucker Tools | Not stated | No |
Sureway | Not stated | No |
TQL | From free | Free to use |
Bennett | Not stated | No |
Globaltranz | Not stated | No |
*The prices in the table above (where available) come directly from each company’s website and were accurate at the time of writing. Since then, those prices may have changed.
We’ve listed the results of our load board research and the features of each company’s product in a bit more detail below. You’ll be able to see the benefits of their service and some general information about the company as well.
*companies are ranked in no particular order.
Topics
1. Direct Freight Services
Direct Freight Services provides freight services across the United States that bring together carriers, shippers and brokers to deliver loads more efficiently.
- Their load board is designed for a variety of load types including RGNs
- No account is required to access the load board
- Posts can be loaded by shippers and brokers for free
- A free account is offered to carriers to enable them to contact shippers and brokers
- Search for suitable loads amongst 300,000 daily available loads
- They have improved their load filtering capabilities and offer custom columns
- Don’t miss out on suitable loads by setting up alerts for new loads by email and text
- They provide tools that can help with planning such as route planning and weather forecasts
- You can access the load board remotely through their Driver App
- Access credit scores and full credit reports through the load board
Website: https://www.directfreight.com/
2. Landstar
Landstar provides integrated transportation services that incorporate technology-enabled and asset light solutions. They are also one of the Top 100 3PL Providers in 2023 as chosen by Inbound Logistics.
- Offers a load board that caters for independent agents and owner-operators
- They have a network that comprises over 108,000 trucks
- Each day there are thousands of loads available to carriers
- They provide a broad range of load types which include RGNs
- Loads include short and long haul opportunities
- Access loads across the US and into Canada and Mexico
- They enable carriers to search for loads and post their available trucks
- Load alerts can be set up for loads that match your requirements
- The mobile app is available to enable you to access the load board from anywhere
- Offers a range of information which includes capacity, pricing and in-depth analytics
Website: https://www.landstar.com/
3. Truckstop
Truckstop provides practical solutions for moving freight which cover the full lifecycle from finding loads to payments which they deliver using technology enhancements to make it easier.
- They offer a load board that is designed for shippers, brokers and carriers
- They have an active customer base of over 250,000 users
- Experienced load board provider with over 80 million loads delivered in a year
- They offer a range of plans from Basic to Pro
- A range of equipment types are catered for including removable gooseneck trailers
- Carriers can search for loads and shippers can post loads
- Advanced tools are available on some plans which include heat maps and real time updates
- Shippers can access performance ratings for carriers if they have the Pro plan
- Industry information is provided including market insight
- They offer other services which include cargo insurance and factoring
Website: https://truckstop.com/
4. Doft
Doft offers freight services which include a load board that brings together carriers and shippers so that they can deliver their loads more effectively throughout the US, Canada and Mexico.
- They offer a load board which provides a free plan with many of the main features
- They also offer a premium plan that has more features
- Access over 150,000 loads daily
- Loads can be easily searched and then bid on
- You can set up notifications for loads that are nearby
- Load rate confirmations can be sent instantly to carriers
- They aim to help carriers increase revenue and reduce the number of dead miles
- Can provide tracking facilities where vehicles have GPS tracking fitted
- The load board can be accessed through their mobile app
- Carriers can be paid quickly as soon as 24 hours
Website: https://doft.com/
5. Loadup
Loadup is a load provider that offers its services internationally through two load boards, one designed for the US and Canada, and the second for the international market.
- Their load board is free for shippers
- Depending on the truck type some carriers may be able to access the load board for free
- Registration is required and some carriers will need to pay a membership fee
- The load board is designed for a variety of users including private individuals, freight brokers and manufacturers
- Loads can be searched to find the best matches
- They provide unrestricted access to the load board with no need to bid or compete for loads and no commission is taken
- They also provide tender opportunities
- Email alerts can be set up so you can be notified of suitable loads
- Carriers can contact shippers and brokers directly
- Membership includes a listing in their courier and hauler directory
Website: http://www.usacanadaloadup.com/
6. FreightFinder.com
FreightFinder.com provides freight services which include a load that is integrated with the LoadBoardNetwork and caters for owner-operators, trucking companies and freight brokers.
- They offer a load board that is free to use
- The load board can be accessed without an account
- Thousands of loads are available daily
- Cater for a variety of load types including RGNs
- A personalised load board experience is offered
- Loads can be searched on a range of factors including origin, destination, radius and equipment type
- Truck availability can also be posted
- Assistance is provided through routing and mileage tools
- They have developed an industry directory
- They support the industry with a refined industry search engine and job site for truckers
Website: https://www.freightfinder.com/
7. Atlantic Logistics
Atlantic Logistics is a 3PL company that offers a load board for its registered users that helps connect shippers and carriers to deliver loads.
- Their load board has a large qualified network of carriers
- They have completed over 250,000 shipments
- Were named for the 5th time as a top freight broker in 2021
- They cater for a range of equipment including removable gooseneck trailers
- The load board covers North America
- You must register to use the load board and be vetted first
- The load board can be filtered and searched to find the most suitable loads
- They have made accepting and scheduling loads easier using advanced technology
- Users can access a dedicated support team
- Quick Pay solutions are available to pay carriers faster
Website: https://www.shipatlantic.com/
8. Brokered Loads
Brokered Loads provides freight solutions including a load board which they offer in partnership with ATS Logistics and Sureway Transportation Company.
- They provide a load board that is closed access and offers loads in real time
- They have built a vetted network of carriers
- It is a self-service booking service
- Loads are available for a variety of vehicles including RGNs
- Register through their website to access the load board
- Loads can be searched by date, origin, destination, radius, load size and equipment type
- Shippers’ loads are added by Brokered Loads
- Loads can be tracked in real time
- Their Customer Portal can be used for documentation
- Paperwork can be processed quicker through an integration with Transflo
Website: https://brokeredloads.com/
9. Jones Logistics
Jones Logistics offers freight services such as managed transportation, freight brokerage, dedicated operations and more. They claim that they are one of the top 10 US flatbed transporters.
- Their load board caters for a range of vehicles including RGNs
- They have a network of over 26,000 carriers
- You will need to register for the load board and be approved before access is granted
- You can search the load board using filters on origin, destination, distance, weight and equipment
- They support carriers in maximising their trucks and income
- Communication aids are provided to ensure loads are delivered
- The load board can help manage schedules, billing and claims management
- They aim to assist with the optimisation of freight for shippers and aid in finding trusted carriers
- Tracking facilities are offered through the load board
- Carriers can opt for faster payments through Quick Pay
Website: https://www.joneslogistics.com/
10. Maverick Transportation
Maverick Transportation delivers freight services in the US, Canada and Mexico through their load board and eight US based locations.
- They offer a program called Internet Truckstop Diamond Broker Program
- Their load board is offered free to shippers and carriers to use
- Specialise in agricultural and construction loads
- Suitable equipment types include RGNs
- The load board provides lots of loads that are continuously updated
- Offers consistent lanes for carriers
- Their carrier network meets safety standards
- The load board is searchable by any field and dates
- You can also utilise advanced search functionality to reduce search results
- Load information is detailed including total pay and offer for the load
Website: https://www.maverickusa.com/
11. Mercer Transportation
Mercer Transportation provides shipping services across North America and they claim to be one of the largest flatbed, heavy specialised and dry van carriers in the US.
- They offer a load board that delivers over 500,000 loads each year
- Their carrier network comprises over 30,000 carriers
- Register with them to use their load board
- A vetting process takes place which checks insurance and safety standards
- Loads are searchable to find suitable load matches
- Offers a Personal Load Coordinator who can help you manage your loads
- Support for shippers is available from local agents and Regional Sales Manager
- Shipments can be tracked in real time
- Carriers can access faster payment options
- They offer discount opportunities on fuel, tyres and services
Website: https://mercer-trans.com/
12. Online Freight Services
Online Freight Services offers freight systems that are backed by Echo Global Logistics and they aim to assist businesses in managing their shipments and loads more effectively.
- Offers a load board that is easy to use
- They have created a network of reliable carriers with over 50,000 carriers
- Designed to be a self-service web portal for carriers to find loads
- Their customer base provides a broad range of loads and locations
- They claim to offer competitive loads
- Loads can be searched and managed easily through the load board
- Out-of-hours support is available to users
- They can help carriers with faster payment solutions
- Utilise their TMSPro software to access help to issue invoices, handle collections and pay carriers
- Integrations are possible that can assist with streamlining and improving efficiencies
Website: https://onlinefreight.com/
13. Tennessee Steel Haulers
Tennessee Steel Haulers (TSH) provides long and short haul trucking opportunities both across the US and internationally utilising both their fleet and carrier network.
- They offer a load board that provides loads in real-time
- They cater for a variety of load types which include RGNs
- You can access their load board by registering with them
- Vetting will take place before access is given
- The load board can be searched by location and radius
- Posts for loads are detailed and include origin, destination, commodity, weight, miles and notes
- They can assist with reducing paperwork through in-cab scanning
- Settlements are offered daily by Direct Debit, EFS or check
- They offer training programs for drivers
- Drivers can access a bonus scheme and fuel discounts
Website: https://tenh.com/
14. Bridgeway
Bridgeway is a freight provider that has a large network of owner-operators, agents and third parties, and they are one of America’s largest specialty transportation providers.
- They offer a purpose built load board for carriers and shippers
- Over 100,000 freight professionals form their network
- A range of equipment types are catered for including removable gooseneck trailers
- They claim to offer competitive rates for their loads
- They are an experienced provider who is able to take on the toughest transport challenges
- Carriers need to register with them
- They provide a personalised service with their experienced staff
- They support carriers in finding and managing loads
- Shippers can access reliable and safe transportation services
- Members can benefit from discounts on fuel and equipment
Website: https://bridgewayconnects.com/
15. Werner
Werner offers logistics and transportation solutions to businesses across the world and they claim to be one of the US’ top five largest truckload carriers.
- Their load board is suitable for shippers and carriers and is called Werner Bridge
- Over 35,000 carriers are part of their carrier network
- They cater for a variety of load types including RGNs
- Complete their online registration form to access the load board
- Vetting will happen to ensure that they meet their standards
- Loads can be searched using perimeters such as location, date and equipment
- They can offer loads on preferred lanes
- Quotes are available for shippers immediately
- The load board helps manage transactions and communications
- Tracking information and other useful information are available on the dashboard
Website: https://www.werner.com/
16. FindFreightLoads.com
FindFreightLoads.com utilises machine learning and artificial intelligence in its load board to assist carriers in finding the best loads for their fleets or trucks.
- Their load board is called RightNowLoad.com
- They offer free access to brokers and shippers
- Carriers need to pay a monthly fee although no contract applies
- Carriers can access a three day free trial
- You can search the load board for loads that meet your requirements
- Direct contact is allowed between carriers and shippers or brokers
- A bulk upload facility is available to shippers
- Credit report lookups are offered to carriers
- They offer a factoring service
- They provide other services which include fuel discounts, weather and load conditions, mileage and routing
Website: https://findfreightloads.com/
17. Coyote Logistics
Coyote Logistics offers a range of freight and logistics services across the US, Mexico and Europe which include transportation RFP management, fleet and network optimisation, reporting and analysis, and more.
- They have created a load board called CoyoteGO which is easy to use
- Their network comprises of 100,000 carriers
- Every day 10,000 loads are handled
- Register with them to access the load board
- Carriers are vetted and approved
- The load board is designed to help carriers find, negotiate and book loads
- Also provides help with invoicing
- You can access the load board online and through the mobile app
- Their load board provides load tracking
- Carriers can receive early bid access and financial benefits through their reward program
Website: https://coyote.com/
18. LoadMatch
LoadMatch has created a load board that helps carriers and shippers share information on their loads, trucks and equipment to aid the delivery of loads.
- They provide a load board that can be accessed for free or a paid plan for more advanced features
- A 30-day trial of their paid plan is available for free
- They operate across North America
- Designed to support freight brokers, freight forwarders, and a range of carriers including vehicle carriers
- Carriers can search for available loads and post their available trucks
- Shippers are able to post their loads easily
- Enables carriers to set up notifications for new loads
- The load board aims to streamline operations and processes
- Members can get a free listing in their Intermodal Directory
- Their website includes a section for Jobs and Resumes to support the industry
Website: https://loadmatch.com/
19. ATS
ATS (Anderson Trucking Service) provides haulage and shipping services and through their load board, they assist carriers in maximising their fleets by finding additional loads quickly.
- Offers a load board that is called ATS FreighMatch which is easy to use
- They have a customer base of over 5,000 customers
- Loads are available for a variety of equipment types including removable gooseneck trailers
- Gain access to the load board by registering with them online
- Easily search for loads that match your requirements
- Posts can be filtered by a range of factors including rate per mile, total pay, length of haul and trailer type
- Their posts include full information to allow you to assess the load and collect and deliver it
- Loads can be booked easily through the load board
- They provide a mobile app to enable access to the load board remotely
- They aim to help businesses to reduce overheads and simplify their processes
Website: https://www.atsinc.com/
20. FR8star
FR8star has created a load board that acts as a trucking marketplace for shippers and carriers to find each other in a place that can be trusted as carriers are qualified.
- Their load board assists both shippers and carriers
- Three tiers of plans are available to cater for different needs
- They specialise in premium oversized and open loads which are suitable for RGNs
- Loads are available across the US
- Search for loads by shipment type, location, load/unload method and special load requirements
- Transparency of bids is required with no hidden fees
- They provide freight experts who can help with planning, booking and fulfilling loads
- The load board allows shippers to build loads and post them
- They allow the load board to be connected to other platforms to increase its functionality
- Users can utilise industry information and insights that they provide
Website: https://www.fr8star.com/
21. Shiply
Shiply provides transportation services that offer an international network of carriers that operate across the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, the UK, Spain, Italy, France, Germany, India and Australia.
- They offer an interactive load board
- It has been designed to be easy to use
- They specialise in shipping larger items such as vehicles amongst other things
- No subscription fees apply to carriers
- Fees are charged as a percentage of the quoted amounts at 10-15%
- Each day thousands of loads are available
- Join the load board on their website
- Loads can be searched based on location and route
- You can have suitable loads sent to you through email alerts
- They have made it so combined loads can be achieved and competitive rates can attained
Website: https://www.shiply.com/us
22. Circle Logistics
Circle Logistics offers freight brokerage services as well as being an asset carrier that provides services through their fleet and carrier network across the US, Canada and Mexico.
- Their load board has been created for independent carriers
- They aim to help smaller carriers access larger opportunities
- They cater for a broad range of equipment types which includes RGNs
- Two brokerage options are available – traditional and dedicated
- Nine offices support their network
- The load board can be filtered and searched by location, radius and equipment type
- Offers shippers a personalised solution
- 100% visibility of loads is available
- Faster payment solutions are offered to carriers
- They can assist with EDI requirements by providing the latest technology
Website: https://circledelivers.com/
23. Ivia
Ivia has created a load board that has been designed to help make loads more visible and improve the efficiency of finding and delivering loads.
- Their load board offers free access
- They provide two plans that are designed to cater for different needs
- Free account is available and easy to register for on their website
- A free trial of the software is available
- Both plans offer unlimited searches and posts
- Suppliers can access on-demand capacity
- Advanced tracking facilities are offered through the load board
- You can access notifications about loads and chat facilities
- Their dashboard on advanced plans includes reporting facilities
- They also offer automated POD and deep analytics
Website: https://ivia.com/
24. Group One Inc
Group One Inc provides transportation and logistics solutions through its fleet and carrier network which operates in the continental US and Canada.
- They offer a load board for shippers and carriers
- An experienced logistics provider
- They specialise in solutions such as flatbed and heavy haul, customised logistics, tradeshows and events
- They cater for a variety of equipment types including removable gooseneck trailers
- You can get an account online so you can book loads
- They vet their carriers so that they meet a minimum standard
- Loads are searchable for the most suitable loads
- You can request loads with no bidding and shippers approve the request
- Load details include origin, destination and delivery instructions
- They aim to help shippers make their shipments more cost-effective and efficient
Website: https://grouponetransport.com/
25. Trucker Tools
Trucker Tools has developed a range of freight tools which include a load board, TMS, dispatch systems, ELD and telematics
- Book It Now is their load board
- They have a network of 165,000 carriers with 13 million truckers
- Sign up for the load board on their website
- They make it easy for carriers to find and book loads
- Search for loads on your preferred lanes and save your preferred brokers
- Submit quotes for loads and quickly negotiate rates
- Receive recommendations for loads based on your preferences
- Manage your loads through the load board
- Provides tracking facilities
- Access a range of additional tools to support your business
Website: https://www.truckertools.com/
26. Sureway
Sureway is part of ATS (Andreson Trucking Service) which provides a trucking service and load board, and they appear in the top 25 freight brokerage companies in America.
- Their load board caters for carriers of all sizes including owner-operators
- Access a couple of thousand loads
- They have a network of over 150,000 carriers
- They operate across the US with a network of over one million trucks
- Loads are available for a range of equipment types including RGNs
- Complete an online form to become a carrier for them
- The load board is searchable and loads can be booked easily
- Consistent freight options are available
- Carriers are offered faster payments in three to five days
- They do regular reviews of carrier paperwork to ensure their paperwork is up to date
Website: https://www.sureway.com/
27. TQL
TQL offers freight brokerage solutions across North America with 56 offices supporting their network and they have delivered over three million loads through their network in a year.
- Their load board is free to use
- Every week they have over 65,000 loads available
- They offer a variety of modes which include road, air, ocean, intermodal, and drayage as well as FTL and LTL
- Loads are suitable for a range of equipment including RGNs
- Carriers need to register on their website to become a carrier for them
- They will vet carriers by checking certificates and insurance
- You can search for loads including preferred lanes
- Their dedicated Carrier Relations Team provide support
- You can access the load board through their web portal and mobile app
- Payment options are available to carriers
Website: https://www.tql.com/
28. Bennett
Bennett offers transportation and logistics services through their network of owner-operators, agents and employees which operates across North America.
- Their load board has been designed for carriers and owner-operators
- Over 3,000 carriers are part of their network
- They facilitate a variety of loads including removable gooseneck trailers
- The load board is searchable to allow you to find the most suitable loads
- They will give you a personal contact to assist with using the load board
- Provides useful tools including shipment tracking and proof of delivery
- If you deliver five or more loads each month you can get a free ELD device
- Loads can be found on the mobile app or you can have loads emailed to you
- Carriers can access faster payments in three days
- For those wanting even quicker payments, they offer other solutions with a processing fee
Website: https://www.bennettig.com/
29. GlobalTranz
GlobalTranz offers a range of services to support shippers of all sizes with freight and logistics services which cover all modes of transportation.
- Their load board has been designed to help drivers and dispatchers find and book loads
- They provide loads in real-time and the ability to manage them
- A customer base of over 121,000 use their load board
- Over 85,000 carriers are part of their network
- They cater for a range of loads including RGNs
- Carriers can complete their online application to join their load board
- Offers one-time loads to contractual opportunities
- The load board enables you to track and report on loads
- A dedicated carrier relations team provide support
- Access Quick Pay solutions that pay in 24-48 hours
Website: https://www.globaltranz.com/
Removable gooseneck trailer load board Q&A
What are removable gooseneck trailers?
Removable gooseneck (RGN) trailers are specialist trailers that are designed to transport loads that are oversized, heavy and often awkward shapes. The trailers are designed with a detachable front end that is called the gooseneck, hence the name.
The ease of removing the front end of the trailer allows for simpler loading and unloading of loads especially heavy machinery as it creates a ramp from lowering this end.
RGN trailers can vary in length from 61’5” to 92’8” which enables them to accommodate a wide range of loads. They are commonly used to transport large and oversized loads such as industrial equipment, construction machinery, energy infrastructure components and other bulky items.
Key characteristics and advantages of RGN trailers include:
- Versatility for Heavy Loads: RGN trailers are ideal for transporting heavy equipment and machinery. Their design can accommodate loads that are too tall or heavy for standard flatbed or step deck trailers.
- Ease of Loading: The removable gooseneck allows for ground-level loading of equipment, eliminating the need for cranes or large forklifts in some cases. This is particularly useful for items that can move under their own power, like bulldozers or tractors.
- Variability in Length and Capacity: RGN trailers come in various lengths and configurations, including multi-axle setups, to handle different weights and types of cargo. Some can carry loads up to 150,000 pounds or more, depending on the number of axles and the trailer’s design.
- Specialized Configurations: Beyond the standard RGN, there are extendable versions for exceptionally long loads and double-drop designs that offer even lower bed heights, providing additional clearance for particularly tall cargo.
- Legal and Permit Requirements: Like other specialized trailers, operating an RGN may require special permits, especially for oversized or overweight loads. The specific requirements can vary by jurisdiction and the nature of the load.
Why should you use a removable gooseneck trailer?
You may want to consider using an RGN trailer if you have a large and heavy load that needs moving. RGN trailers can provide improved versatility compared to other trailers as they offer large load capacity as well as being easier to load and unload due to removing the front end and the lowered ramp.
This makes them particularly suited to transporting drivable machinery. This can reduce the risk of loads and improve the efficiency of loading and unloading.
Their lower deck height means that they can accommodate taller loads without necessarily exceeding height restrictions and allows them to increase their payload capacity.
The trailer is also designed to provide greater stability during transit which minimises the risk to loads especially if the load is unevenly distributed or a heavy load.
Do all removable gooseneck trailer load boards show rates?
Not all load boards show the rates for the loads, in fact, most load boards don’t show the rates. Many of the load boards have been created on the premise of being a competitive platform to engage carriers in offering their best rates for the loads in order to win the load.
This enables the shippers and brokers to use the load board to achieve the best rates for their loads. If these load boards were to display the load rates, carriers wouldn’t necessarily offer the best rate but accept the rate advertised.
If you need assistance in working out the rate for loads then some load boards can offer support in the form of rate calculators and/or historical rate information. This type of information and tools can help carriers build their rates and can also assist shippers in creating a benchmark for their loads to judge bids or quotes against.
Which load board pays the most?
One load board won’t necessarily pay more than another load board as the load boards themselves don’t determine what the load rates are. The load rates are decided by the shipper/broker or the carrier.
On load boards that advertise the rates the shipper or broker decides the rate and the carriers can decide to apply for the load and whether to negotiate the load. On load boards where the carrier quotes or bids for loads, the carrier decides what rate they are willing to take for the load. The shipper or broker will then select which carrier they want from the bids or quotes received.
The load board can however have some influence on the amount earned as they can charge for using the load board or winning loads. The charges can include a subscription fee to access the load board but not all load boards charge this fee.
Some load boards also charge as well or instead charge a fee for each load won. A small minority of load boards are completely free.
Are there any restrictions around using a removable gooseneck trailer?
RGN trailers are subjected to the same rules and regulations as many other trailers in terms of heavy equipment transportation which include height and weight restrictions. Loads that exceed weight and height limits are required to have permits to allow them to be transported on public roads.
An oversized and heavy haul is typically classified as those exceeding 13.6 feet high, 8.6 feet wide, 53 feet long and 45,000 pounds in weight. These guidelines can differ depending on which state you are in.
Depending on the load the RGN trailer may require special signage, load banners, specific lighting, safety flags and even aid cars if the load is particularly big and will cause traffic issues.
Here are some of the key considerations:
- Weight Limits: There are federal and state weight limits for highways, typically capped at 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW) in the United States, but this can vary depending on the number of axles. RGN trailers, especially those designed for heavy or oversized loads, often require special permits if the load exceeds these limits.
- Size Restrictions: While RGNs are designed to handle large and oversized loads, any load that exceeds legal dimensions for height, width, or length will require an oversize load permit. The standard maximum width is 8.5 feet (2.59 meters), and the maximum height is often around 13.5 to 14 feet (4.11 to 4.27 meters), but these dimensions can vary by state and road.
- Route Surveys and Planning: Oversized or heavy loads may require route surveys to ensure the chosen path can accommodate the load’s dimensions and weight. This involves checking for low bridges, narrow roads, weight-limited bridges, and other potential obstacles. Some jurisdictions require these surveys to be submitted and approved before issuing a permit.
- Permit Requirements: Transporting oversized or overweight loads on RGN trailers often requires obtaining special permits from each state or jurisdiction the load will pass through. These permits specify conditions like travel times, escort vehicles, and specific routes that must be followed.
- Escort Vehicles and Safety Measures: For certain oversized loads, escort vehicles (also known as pilot cars) may be required for safety. These vehicles help to ensure the safe transport of the load by alerting other road users and helping to manage traffic.
- Load Securing: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and state regulations have specific requirements for securing loads on trailers, including RGNs. These rules are designed to ensure loads do not shift during transport, posing a risk to safety.
- Insurance: Carriers must have adequate insurance coverage for transporting oversized and heavy loads, as these cargoes can be more valuable and pose higher risks than standard shipments.
- Special Training: Drivers operating RGN trailers, especially with oversized loads, often require special training and experience to navigate the unique challenges posed by these transports, such as handling the detachable gooseneck, securing various types of cargo, and maneuvering through traffic with oversized dimensions.