Traffic Engineering

Abnormal loads

Large or heavy loads which need to be transported are known as 'abnormal loads', Hauliers are companies that specialise in moving large/heavy loads. There are different ways of transporting loads, for example by ship, train or lorry.

Hauliers can use the highways to move loads which are classed as 'abnormal' (for example those with a gross weight exceeding 40 tonnes, more than 3m wide or even high loads).

Before a haulier can move an abnormal load they must notify and gain permission from parties who have an interest in the proposed route. i.e. Police, Local Authorities, Network Rail, London Underground, British Waterways Board and private road owners. They also need to follow the guidelines given by Construction and Use Regulations (known as C and U regulations).

These are now also to be read in conjunction with the Authorised Weights Regulations. These rules set out how road vehicles should be built. In addition Haulage firms who use lorries and vans need to work within the regulation called Authorisation of Special Types General Order 2003 in order to be judged as safe.

If the gross weight or axle weights exceed those specified on the C and U regulations and Authorised Weights then all interested parties along the proposed route and especially bridge owners (e.g. Network Rail, London Underground, Local Authorities) must be consulted and insured against any damage. This is important to us as we aim to keep traffic congestion down and keep roads and bridges safe.

An abnormal load can potentially go on any road provided the haulier satisfies the appropriate regulations laid down by the law. Some roads are more suitable and therefore more extensively used e.g. A Class Roads (A13 and A12) or motorways.

When loads travel on any routes enabling works may need to be carried out prior to the movement and this could include the temporary removal of pedestrian guard rails, traffic light posts and street furniture. This work is normally carried out at the expense of the Haulier / load owner.

Notice periods

The law requires the haulier to give a minimum of 2 clear days notice to the Police, Highway Authority (Barking and Dagenham Council) and Bridge owners before moving the load.

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 for Transport.

Please fax your Form of Notice to the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham on fax number 020 8227 3231.

For further information on the following areas:

Abnormal loads and the borough's bridges - telephone 020 8227 3202
Abnormal loads and street furniture - telephone 020 8227 3653

Useful web links

Highways Agency|

Department for Transport|

Contact

Steve Loynes

Senior Engineer

Highways Infrastructure

3rd Floor

Maritime House

1 Linton Road

Barking

IG11 8HG

Tel: 020 8227 3202

Fax: 020 8227 3166

Email: steve.loynes@lbbd.gov.uk|