Oversize and overweight loads are common in trucking. Flatbedders across the country haul larger-than-average freight every day along specialized routes.
Some of those heavy-specialized loads, however, stand out from the crowd. Each year, the the Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association recognizes some of the most impressive at its annual conference. Last month, three companies were named winners in four categories – under 160,000 pounds, 160,000-500,000 pounds, 500,000-pound-plus super loads, and “Moving,” dedicated to hauls “using specialized equipment, such as self-propelled transporters, dollies and crawler assemblies. Transport must be evident,” according to SCRA criteria.
[Related: Big loads, big equipment, big pay: Heavy/specialized hauling explored]
Here are the 2021 SCRA Hauling Jobs of the Year:
Precision Specialized moved eight power generation modules with dimensions of 36' x 21' x 21' and a net weight of 110,000 pounds each.
Precision Specialized used a four-axle Western Star and a 13-axle Trail King Perimeter rear-steer lowboy for the loads. Routing was key to the move -- the normal route from origin to destination was only 15 miles, but the final approved and permitted route traversed 70 miles. Complete road closures and press releases in all major papers and on social media and television were used to ensure the traveling public was aware of this move.
COVID-19 protocols added to the stringent rules and regulations of the move, Precision said. Supplying food and restroom facilities was another concern that was met with mobile units that traveled with the convoy. The final night of travel had a total of 230 people involved in the move.
