Operating a heavy load truck will mean needing to be compliant with different laws about how the loads are carried and the truck itself overall, and these laws and regulations are usually different than those affecting any other delivery vehicle. You may be surprised to find out that your own vehicle and a trailer could be classified as a heavy load truck. Note a few common questions you might have about heavy load truck compliance so you know you're always operating your vehicle safely.

1. Is a heavy load truck compliant if materials are strapped down?

Not having proper restraints is a common means of noncompliance for a heavy load truck; however, note that a heavy load truck may not be in compliance if the material it's carrying projects to the front or rear. There are limits as to how far in front or in back of your truck a material such as planks or crane arms or other items can project or jut out, even if they are properly strapped down. Note the projection limits for your size of truck and weight of material and be sure you stay within these limits for your materials. 

2. How do you restrain sand and aggregates in a heavy load truck?

Sand and aggregates usually need to be covered or wet down so that they don't become airborne while the truck is on the road. It's important to note that there are also weight limits to your heavy loads and wetting down sand and aggregates can put you over that limit. It may be better to invest in proper covers for the back of your truck if you'll be hauling any type of sand, gravel, and the like.

3. When is a personal vehicle covered by heavy load truck compliance laws?

The laws about projection mentioned above apply even if you're using your own personal truck to pick up boards and other materials from a home improvement supply store. You cannot have your sheets of plywood or wood studs project past a certain point of your vehicle, in the front or back.

You might also find that hauling certain materials in a trailer behind your vehicle can put you over the weight limit that would then classify your vehicle as a heavy load vehicle. If you'll be hauling limestone, bricks, and materials like these, check with the office that issues permits for trailers and note the weight limits; this will depend on the number of axles of your trailer. If your trailer becomes classified as a heavy load truck, you'll need to follow compliance laws for how those materials are strapped down and otherwise secured.

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