Abnormal loads
When hauliers wish to move loads which are classed as 'abnormal'
(for example those with a gross weight exceeding 40 tonnes) they
must notify the Abnormal Loads Officer. The proposed route
will be assessed for road works, tight bends, bridge restrictions
etc. In some cases street furniture will have to be removed
and the cost for removal and reinstatement recovered from the
haulier. If a route is deemed unsuitable an alternative may
be suggested although it is the responsibility of the haulier to
check it's suitable and survey the route.
Notifications must include a Form of Indemnity to cover the
haulier against possible damage to the Highway Network. An
indemnity can be attached with each individual notice or sent
annually as a 'Block' to cover a period of up to one year.
All movements that exceed the Construction in Use Regulations
must be notified to the Police. Only those which exceed the
weight criteria require to be notified to the Authority.
There is no statutory limit governing the height of a load so it is
not legally notifiable but it is advisable to consult the
Authority's Abnormal Loads Officer about low bridges.
Hauliers must also gain consent from other bridge owners e.g.
Network Rail. Some roads through Northumberland are looked
after by Agents e.g. A69, Roadlink, Aone etc where this is the case
the Haulier must notify them directly. Where the route is a
combination of County and Agents, all the relevant parties involved
along the route must be notified at the same time.
An abnormal load can potentially go on any road provided the
haulier complies with the law. Some roads are more suitable and
more extensively used e.g. A Class Roads.
Notice Periods
The law requires the haulier to give a minimum of two clear days
notice to the Authority and Bridge owners before moving loads up to
80 Tonnes, (up to 5 days depending on width). However
due to changes in our legislation we now require 5 days clear
notice of all movements. For loads between 80 and 150
Tonnes the haulier must also notify the Police.
The notice period for loads over 150 tonnes, 6.1 metres wide or
27.4 metres long is different and hauliers moving such loads need
special orders from the Department of Transport.
For full details of the notification requirements for large and
heavy loads, you can download the appropriate documentation from
the
Department of Transport Website.
