For items that are too heavy or bulky to be easily transported on Hawaii’s roadways, you may need heavy haul trucking. This service is used for machinery, construction supplies, prefab housing, boats, planes, and similarly sized items. Here are a few of the features and limitations of heavy haul trucking.

FAQ About Heavy Haul Trucking

What Defines Heavy Haul Trucking?

The exact height and weight requirements vary by state. In Hawaii, the definition of a heavy haul truck load is cargo wider than 9 feet, taller than 13.5 feet, longer than 65 feet (or shorter, depending on the type of trailer), an overhang of more than 4 feet, and/or a load heavier than 88,000 pounds.

Are Permits Required?

Before you can move an oversized load, you’ll need to plan an optimized route along roads that can bear the size and weight of the items hauled. You’ll then need a permit from the Department of Transportation. The permit process requires a fee of $5 to $25, a sketch of the proposed vehicle configuration and load distribution, and a standard request form.

Are There Limitations on Load Size?

Federal law sets maximum weights for heavy haul truck loads based on the number and type of axles on the hauling vehicle. Steer axles have their loads capped at 12,000 pounds, single axles at 20,000, while drive and tandem axles are each rated for up to 34,000 pounds.

What Extra Requirements Are in Place?

Wide and heavy loads must be visibly marked with banners, flags, and lights. You may also need pilot cars to travel with the load either for insurance reasons or to fulfill legal requirements. The rules for signage and escorts vary by county in Hawaii. Finally, your permit application should include the times and days of the week when you intend to make your trip; your movement is restricted to those hours.

If you need to arrange heavy haul trucking on Maui, consult Rojac Trucking in Wailuku, HI. Serving the island for almost 40 years, they provide reliable transportation for heavy loads, especially construction supplies and equipment. To arrange your shipment, call (808) 986-1100, and learn more about the company’s community involvement on their website.