Oversized Cargo

ODC & Heavy Haulage

The complete guide to hydraulic multi-axle modular trailers, lowboy decks, and MoRTH highway permits.

Specialized Over-Dimensional Cargo (ODC) Road Logistics

Over-Dimensional Cargo (ODC) refers to freight that exceeds the standard legal dimensional and weight limits of highway vehicles. Shipping items such as windmill blades, heavy boilers, concrete girders, electric transformers, and mining equipment requires specialized lowbed and hydraulic trailers.

At Scan2Freight, we manage complex project cargo logistics. From detailed highway route surveys and bridge weight inspections to securing national highway authority clearances, we ensure your heavy-lift cargo is transported safely.

Specialized Heavy Haulage Fleet Specifications

Our trailers are configured to match specific heavy engineering weight loads and height clearances:

Trailer Type	Deck Height (Ground Clearance)	Axle Count / Platform Type	Max Load Capacity
Semi Low-Bed (SLB)	0.90m - 1.10m	3 to 5 axles / Fixed platform	35 - 55 Tons
Low-Bed (Lowboy)	0.60m - 0.75m	Multi-axle / Removable Gooseneck (RGN)	40 - 80 Tons
Hydraulic Modular Trailer	1.15m (adjustable +/- 300mm)	4 to 12 axle lines / Modular combination	100 - 500+ Tons

MoRTH Highway Axle Load Regulations

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) regulates maximum axle loads to prevent road damage. Transporting heavy project cargo must adhere to these guidelines:

Single Axle Limit: Maximum legal load is restricted to 11.5 metric tons per single axle (with dual wheels).
Tandem Axle Limit: Restricted to 21 metric tons for two consecutive axles.
Hydraulic Axle Rule: Modular hydraulic axles distribute weight over more wheels, allowing up to 18 tons per axle line under special permission.

Safety Escorts & Warning Specifications

Oversized trailers cannot travel on public roads without active safety escorts:

Pilot Vehicles: Lead and chase escort cars warn oncoming traffic and verify vertical bridge clearances in real-time.
Reflective Warning Signs: Bright orange or yellow "OVERSIZED LOAD" sign banners must be attached to the trailer's front and rear bumpers.
Night-Transit Lighting: High-intensity yellow flashing beacons and red side-marker lights are required for night highway transits.

ODC & Heavy Haulage FAQ

What qualifies as Over-Dimensional Cargo (ODC) in India?

Generally, cargo is considered ODC if it exceeds standard trailer dimensions: length over 12 meters, width over 2.6 meters, or height over 4.7 meters.

How are bridge load limits verified?

Our engineering team analyzes the bridge structural blueprints and distributes the vehicle weight across multiple hydraulic axles to keep the load per axle below maximum safety thresholds.

Do you provide pilot safety cars?

Yes, we deploy certified escort pilot vehicles equipped with warning signs and flashing light systems to guide the trailer and manage road traffic.

What is a hydraulic multi-axle modular trailer?

It is a specialized heavy-lift transport platform consisting of modular wheel sets that can be coupled together. It features hydraulic suspension, allowing each axle to support extreme weights while keeping the deck level on uneven roads.

Planning a Heavy Haulage Project?

Consult with our heavy haulage logistics engineers to coordinate multi-axle trailers, route surveys, and clearances.

Speak to a Project Engineer