Towing 11'3" Wide Equipment: Key Considerations and Best Practices

[MikePhua]

Towing oversized loads such as an 11'3" wide piece of equipment requires specific planning and understanding of the regulations involved. Whether you're moving heavy machinery, construction equipment, or other large loads, it’s essential to consider factors like legal restrictions, equipment capability, and safety measures to ensure a smooth operation. This article provides an overview of the best practices for towing wide equipment and offers insights into the necessary steps for a safe and successful haul.
Legal and Regulatory Requirements

1. Permits and Regulations
   When towing a load that exceeds the standard width limits, it's crucial to understand the local, state, and federal regulations governing oversized loads. In most cases, you’ll need to obtain an oversize load permit before moving the equipment. These permits may require specific details, such as the weight, dimensions, and route of the haul. Regulations can vary depending on the location, so it's important to check the specific rules for the area you’ll be operating in.
   
2. Route Planning
   Prior to towing, you should carefully plan your route. Wide loads often require specific routes to avoid tight turns, bridges, and underpasses that might not accommodate larger widths. In some cases, local authorities may provide a pilot vehicle or escort to assist in guiding the load through potentially hazardous areas. Route planning ensures that all roadways are suitable and that the load can travel safely without encountering obstacles.
   
3. Escort and Flagging
   For particularly wide loads, a lead or rear escort vehicle may be necessary to ensure proper safety. Escort vehicles can help by providing warnings to other drivers and managing traffic to prevent accidents. Additionally, it’s typically required to use flagging vehicles, warning signs, and flashing lights to alert others to the presence of the oversized load.
   

Choosing the Right Equipment for Towing

1. Trailer Selection
   Selecting the right trailer is essential for safely hauling a wide load. For equipment with a width of 11'3", a specialized lowboy or wide-load trailer may be required to properly distribute the weight and provide the necessary clearance. Lowboy trailers are popular for heavy machinery as they allow for easier loading and unloading while ensuring that the equipment is securely strapped down.
   
2. Towing Vehicle
   The towing vehicle should be appropriately sized to handle the weight and dimensions of the load. Typically, a heavy-duty truck or specialized towing vehicle is needed to pull a wide load. Ensure that the towing vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) exceeds the total weight of the load, including the trailer. The truck should also have proper braking power to handle the load, especially if traveling on steep grades or long distances.
   
3. Load Distribution and Securing the Equipment
   Proper load distribution is key to maintaining the stability of the load while towing. The equipment should be evenly distributed across the trailer, and the load should be securely fastened using chains or straps. Make sure that no part of the equipment extends beyond the limits of the trailer without proper red flags or markers indicating the overhang.
   

Safety Considerations

1. Driving at Safe Speeds
   When towing a wide load, it is important to reduce your speed compared to normal highway speeds. Wide loads present challenges such as limited visibility and wider turning radii. Slower speeds allow for more time to react to potential hazards and will reduce the risk of accidents. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and make sure your trailer is in optimal condition.
   
2. Turning and Maneuvering
   Wide loads require extra care when turning, as the trailer and the load can swing out further than standard vehicles. When maneuvering through tight spaces, be cautious of obstacles such as curbs, other vehicles, and pedestrians. Extra-wide loads often require wider turns to avoid striking other objects or causing accidents.
   
3. Weather Conditions
   Weather conditions can greatly affect the safety of towing a wide load. Wind, rain, snow, or icy roads can reduce traction and stability. Before towing, it is advisable to check the weather forecast and postpone the operation if conditions are unsafe. High winds, in particular, can cause instability in wide loads, so extra caution is necessary.
   

Communication with Authorities

1. Notify Local Authorities
   When towing a large and wide load, always inform local authorities in advance. In some cases, police may need to close certain roads or set up temporary traffic signals to facilitate the transport of oversized loads. Communicating with local law enforcement will also ensure that your permits are in order and that you comply with any specific road closures or detours.
   
2. Keeping Other Drivers Informed
   During the transport, ensure that all other road users are aware of the oversized load. This includes using caution signs, flashing lights, and flagging vehicles in both directions. Maintaining clear communication with other drivers, including using two-way radios with escort vehicles, will help in keeping the convoy organized and safe.
   

Conclusion
Towing an 11'3" wide load is no small task, but with careful planning, the right equipment, and adherence to safety and legal regulations, it can be done safely and efficiently. Understanding the requirements for oversized load permits, choosing the proper trailer and towing vehicle, and taking safety precautions are all critical to the success of the operation. By following these best practices, operators can ensure that the wide load is moved safely without damage or risk to other vehicles on the road.