DOT Heavy Equipment Transport Regulations You Should Know

Tony Mers • August 10, 2023
DOT Heavy Equipment Transport Regulations You Should Know

Being on the road means encountering many potential dangers, including mismanaged heavy equipment. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) closely regulates heavy transportation to mitigate possible transportation dangers. While there are many DOT heavy equipment transport regulations you should know when trying to move your heavy equipment, One Call Logistics can help with most of those regulations. We put our focus primarily on the following three because the DOT does the same—below are some of the most frequently broken regulations.

Working Load Limits

All cargo has working load limits, which refers to the maximum cargo weight allowed based on how much the transport vehicle can safely carry. The general rule for calculating working load limits is dividing the minimum breaking load by a safety factor. Different transport vehicles and securements have different minimum breaking loads and safety factors. One Call Logistics will ensure that the calculations for working load limits are correct so your cargo is safe on the road.

Vehicle and Load Dimensions

One Call Logistics will also make sure your cargo fits properly on the transport vehicle. The DOT states that cargo cannot extend beyond the transport vehicle once it is properly loaded. Even if there is no overhang, the driver still needs to have clear visibility on all sides of the transport vehicle. If the driver cannot clearly see around the vehicle while in motion or parked, they could cause an accident. We want to protect your heavy equipment, so we follow this regulation closely.

Proper Load Securement

One of the most frequently broken DOT heavy equipment transport regulations is proper load securement. You should know about this rule and the fact that it’s regularly disregarded so you can find a logistics company that properly follows all necessary standards. The professionals at One Call Logistics understand the various load securement devices, such as steel strapping, grab hooks, and friction mats. Applying these security devices helps us meet the tie-down requirements for heavy equipment, meaning we meet DOT regulations and your cargo will arrive safely.

Your heavy equipment is important and One Call Logistics wants to ensure its safe arrival, which is why we follow all DOT regulations for heavy equipment transportation services. We will craft a customized solution for your transport needs to make sure your equipment arrives at its destination worry-free.

A truck carries a boat covered by a white tarp with an “OVERSIZE LOAD” banner on the back.
August 22, 2025
Careful planning and expert coordination ensure yachts arrive safely. Understand the key factors that make transporting a yacht successful every time.
A truck hauling a white vintage camper along a highway with a mountain view.
August 13, 2025
Discover what to consider when buying an RV out of state—from taxes to transport—to ensure a smooth, surprise-free purchase across state lines.
Four yellow trucks carry silver gas canisters on flatbeds while driving in one lane of a four-lane h
August 4, 2025
Learn best practices for transporting medical supplies safely and efficiently, from route planning to temperature control and contamination prevention.
By Taylor Tefft July 27, 2025
As wildfires become more frequent and intense across the U.S., the demand for fast, reliable emergency response grows more urgent by the year. Behind every successful wildfire containment effort is a powerful network of moving parts—from fire crews and equipment to mobile command centers, light towers, water tankers, and power units. None of it reaches the front lines without logistics . But not all logistics providers are built for crisis response. When lives, property, and natural resources are on the line, having the right logistics partner can be the difference between delay and action, between chaos and coordination.
A red semi-trailer parked on a road shoulder carries a bulldozer.
July 17, 2025
Learn how to safely and efficiently transport heavy equipment across state lines, from route planning and timing to site prep and secure loading techniques.
By Amy Harper June 9, 2025
From engine damage to frame stress, towing an RV affects your truck more than you think. Discover solutions that preserve your vehicle’s performance and value.
By Amy Harper June 9, 2025
Tiny home living starts with the land. Learn what to consider when choosing a plot for your tiny home to avoid costly mistakes and ensure peace of mind.
By Amy Harper June 6, 2025
If you’re unsure whether to rent a trailer or hire a transport service, discover the pros and cons of each option and how they apply to your needs.
By Amy Harper June 4, 2025
Are you prepared for Hurricane Season?
By Amy Harper May 19, 2025
Summer is here! One Call Logistics arranges all of your deliveries.