What You Should Know About Truck Parking for Oversized Loads

Overview

If you’re driving an oversized load, finding the right parking spot can feel like navigating a maze. Not all facilities can accommodate large rigs, and the risks of parking in an unsuitable space can be costly. That’s why you need to plan ahead and be aware of the rules and regulations for parking oversized vehicles. Decker 24 Hr Truck And Trailer, Inc. has written a blog post to help you with truck parking for oversized loads.

Introduction

If you’re responsible for transporting oversized loads, you need to know how to find safe, legal parking. In this blog post, trucking experts from Decker 24 Hr Truck And Trailer, Inc. will explain what’s considered an oversized load, the challenges of parking these vehicles, how to find suitable parking spots, and tips for safe overnight parking.

What Is Considered an Oversized Load?

An oversized load is any truck or trailer that exceeds the legal size or weight limits for standard vehicles.

These limits vary by state, but in Illinois, an oversized load is considered any vehicle that exceeds the following:

• Width: Over 8 feet and 6 inches wide
• Height: Over 13 feet and 6 inches tall
• Length: Over 65 feet long
• Weight: Over 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight

If your load fits this criteria, you’ll need a parking facility designed to handle these dimensions.

What Are the Challenges of Parking Oversized Loads?

Parking an oversized load isn’t as simple as finding the nearest rest stop. Drivers face several challenges, including the following.

Space Limitations

Finding space for an oversized load can be tough because not all parking areas have the room needed for bigger trucks. If you try to park in an area that’s built for standard trucks, you might block traffic or get a ticket. Also, many parking lots have low-hanging branches or power lines that can damage your load if you don’t plan carefully.

Structural Concerns

The weight of an oversized load can damage poorly reinforced surfaces. For example, a heavy truck can crack asphalt and concrete or damage drainage systems. Even parking on grass can cause sinkage if the ground is not compact enough to support the weight.

Safety and Accessibility Issues

Oversized loads often need to navigate tight turns or congested areas, increasing the likelihood of accidents. This is especially true when trying to maneuver into a parking spot that’s not designed for oversized vehicles.

Also, some parking facilities may have low clearance or narrow entrances that can make it difficult for larger trucks to enter and exit safely.

Security Risks

Leaving an oversized load unattended in a public parking facility can be risky, as these vehicles are more susceptible to theft or vandalism. Thieves may target these loads due to their high value, and the large size of these vehicles may make it harder for parking lot security to adequately protect them.

What Are Legal and Regulatory Requirements for Oversized Load Parking?

Oversized trucks face stricter legal scrutiny, especially when parked. If you don’t follow the regulations, you could face fines or even risk losing your commercial driver’s license.

Here are some important things to keep in mind when parking oversized loads:

• Parking permits: Some cities or states require special permits for parking oversized vehicles. Before stopping, verify if your planned location requires additional paperwork.
• Restricted areas: Many urban and residential zones prohibit oversized vehicle parking altogether. Always check local ordinances to avoid fines.
• Load inspections: Local enforcement may conduct inspections to ensure the load is secure, especially if parked on public property. Unsecured loads may result in citations and fines.
• Time limits: Some areas have time restrictions for oversized vehicle parking, typically ranging from a few hours to overnight. Make sure you’re aware of any time limitations before parking.

How Do You Ensure Safety When Parking Trucks With Oversized Loads?

When parking an oversized load, safety should always be a top priority. Two main considerations are securing the load and minimizing the risk of theft.

Load Security

Oversized loads are prone to shifting during transit. If the load isn’t properly secured, it could result in damage to the cargo and even cause an accident.

After parking, make sure you:

• Inspect tie-downs and straps for tension and integrity.
• Use wheel chocks to stabilize your truck, especially on uneven surfaces.
• Recheck the load after a few hours to ensure it’s still secure.

Theft Prevention

The high value of oversized loads makes them a prime target for theft.

To minimize this risk, here are some steps you can take:

• Park in well-lit areas with high traffic.
• Remove any valuable items from the cab or trailer.
• Install a GPS tracking device to quickly locate your vehicle in case of theft.

By following these safety guidelines, you can protect yourself, your load, and your commercial driver’s license while parked with an oversized load.

How Do You Find Truck Parking Facilities for Oversized Loads?

Your safest bet for parking an oversized load is to find a designated truck stop or rest area. These facilities are equipped to accommodate large vehicles and often have security measures in place.

Here are some tips for finding the perfect parking facility:

• Online tools and apps: Use platforms dedicated specifically to helping you find designated parking. You can often filter facilities based on dimensions, amenities, and location.
• Contact facilities directly: Call ahead to confirm that a facility can handle your vehicle’s dimensions and weight.
• Ask fellow truckers: Use online forums or ask other truckers for recommendations on safe and reliable parking facilities.
• Plan ahead: Plan your route and parking stops in advance to avoid any last-minute stress or delays.

Conclusion

There’s a lot that goes into parking a truck with an oversized load. By being aware of your load’s dimensions, taking safety precautions, and finding the right parking facility, you can ensure a successful and stress-free parking experience.

Looking for a parking spot for your truck? Reserve a spot with Decker 24 Hr Truck And Trailer, Inc. today by calling (847) 481-9851.