The trucks
Heavy haul is tractor-and-trailer work. The tractor is spec'd for pulling power, and the trailer is chosen for each load.
| Truck | What it does | Typical setup |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy-spec tractor | Pulls loads well past 80,000 lb gross on permit | High horsepower, heavy rear axles, tridem drive on the largest units |
| Lowboy trailer | Carries tall machines low enough to clear bridges | Detachable gooseneck so equipment drives on from the front |
| Multi-axle trailer | Spreads the heaviest loads across many axles | Jeeps, boosters and extra axle groups added to fit the permit |
| Step deck and flatbed | Steel, pipe, lumber and smaller machines | Tractor plus a flatbed or drop-deck trailer |
| Boom truck | Delivers and places building materials, trusses and signs | Straight truck with a crane boom behind the cab |
| Pilot (escort) vehicle | Leads or follows oversize loads | Car or pickup with signs, flags, lights and height pole |
The people and the jobs
Heavy haul is a step up for experienced Class A drivers. Loading, securement and permit work all come with the job.
Driver pay shown is for all heavy truck drivers; no public source tracks heavy haul pay on its own. Pay: BLS, May 2025.
Safety on the job
A shifted load or a bridge strike can be catastrophic, so heavy haul runs on planning and securement.
- Securement: machines of 10,000 lb or more need at least four tiedowns near the front and rear, with booms and buckets lowered and secured.
- Permits: loads wider than 102 inches need an overwidth permit, and loads over legal weight need overweight permits. States issue them, and rules vary.
- Route surveys: check bridge heights and weights, utility lines, turns and work zones before the move.
- Escorts and signs: use pilot cars, flags, lights and oversize banners as each permit requires.
- Loading: load on level ground with a spotter, and confirm the deck's weight rating.
Fleet buyer spec checklist
Spec the tractor for the heaviest permit load you expect to pull, then add margin.
Resource kit
Heavy Haul & Equipment resource kit
Toolbox talks for your next crew meeting, the rules that apply most and the associations that train and represent the trade.
Toolbox talks
Links go to official and association sites. More: DOT Compliance Center · Buyer’s Guide · Parts & Maintenance
Heavy Haul & Equipment FAQ
When do I need an oversize permit?
When a load is wider than 8.5 feet (102 inches) or exceeds a state’s length, height or weight limits. Each state issues its own permits, often for specific routes.
How do I secure heavy equipment on a trailer?
Follow 49 CFR 393.130: lower blades and buckets, and restrain machines of 10,000 lb or more at the front and rear with at least four tiedowns.
What CDL do heavy-haul drivers need?
A Class A CDL, since lowboys and multi-axle trailers are combination vehicles.
For truck manufacturers, dealers and upfitters
Reach this industry
Heavy haul buyers include contractors, equipment dealers, crane companies and specialized carriers. They buy the highest-spec tractors on the market and value trailer partnerships.
- Sponsor this guide and big-move driver stories.
- Feature heavy-haul trailer builders and boom truck upfitters in Spec & Upfit.
- Publish securement and permit guides co-branded with partners.
- Use the Proud Partner badge at equipment and specialized transport shows.