Non-hazardous cargo – requirements of the Traffic Regulations, transportation regulations, dimensions

In case of the need to transport non-standard objects, it is important to understand the concept of oversized cargo. 

What is oversized cargo? 

Oversized cargo is a separate category of cargo whose parameters exceed the established permissible norms outlined in the traffic regulations. Transporting non-standard items using standard transport vehicles is unfeasible. The category of oversized cargo includes the following types of objects: 

• construction and agricultural machinery; 
• specialized equipment; 
• tower cranes; 
• military vehicles; 
• yachts; 
• excavators; 
• tractors and harvesters. 

Our company offers professional transportation services for non-standard objects within Ukraine, Europe, and CIS countries. The safety and timely delivery of all types of cargo, as well as high-speed transportation, is guaranteed to every client of our company.

What is considered oversized cargo? 

According to the legislation in effect in Ukraine, parameters have been established for the transportation of various specific objects. 

Oversized cargo is an object that exceeds the following parameters: 

• length – 22 meters; 
• height from the road surface – 4 meters; 
• width – 2.6 meters; 
• weight – over 40 tons. 

In the case where the parameters of the cargo object exceed the mentioned values, transportation must be carried out using special transport vehicles, considering the characteristics of the road surface. The decision to transport oversized cargo independently is often linked to potential problems, which can be avoided if the transportation services are provided by professionals in this field.

Requirements of the Road Traffic Rules for Transporting Oversized Cargo

Oversized cargo requires adherence to a set of specific rules, failure to follow which may lead to damage to valuable goods, as well as create dangerous situations on the road for other participants. The transportation rules for all types of specific objects and technical means are developed based on valuable experience aimed at minimizing potential risks during the transportation process. 

The standards for transporting oversized cargo under the Traffic Rules focus on the following aspects:

• before starting the journey, the driver must verify the reliability of securing the cargo to minimize dangerous situations on the road. It is necessary to ensure that there is no risk of the object slipping or falling. 
• the weight of the specific cargo must not exceed the limits established by the transport vehicle characteristics.
• regardless of the type of objects being transported, the cargo should not obstruct the driver’s visibility during the journey or create obstacles for other road participants. 
• during transportation, lighting must be used as prescribed by the road traffic rules. 
• in cases where the cargo extends beyond the dimensions of the transport vehicle, it must be marked according to the established rules.

Permit for Transporting Oversized Cargo

Oversized and non-standard cargo can only be transported with the presence of a special permit document. All types of oversized objects must be transported in compliance with the parameters established by the road traffic rules. 

The permit document for oversized cargo in Ukraine is issued by the Ministry of Transport. The document specifies details about the route, weight, and registration number of the transport vehicle. Additionally, the document indicates the number of trips along the route and the permit’s validity period. The permit can be issued for multiple or single-use.

Rules for Transporting Oversized Cargo by Road Transport in Ukraine

The current rules for transporting oversized cargo are established by the normative acts and regulations in effect in Ukraine. The legislation includes a series of provisions that must be adhered to:

• Transporting oversized cargo should be carried out during periods when the road surface is not overloaded.
• The use of front lights and warning flashers is a mandatory condition for these types of transport operations.
• Objects classified as oversized cargo should not pose a threat to the safety of other road users.
• The transported goods should not negatively affect the maneuverability of the vehicle or the driver’s visibility.
• The driver must promptly respond to changes in the situation during the journey to ensure safety and avoid accidents.

Penalty for Oversized Cargo in Ukraine

During the transportation of non-standard cargo that does not meet the established requirements and parameters, the carrier is obligated to pay a penalty for transporting oversized cargo. The Administrative Code of Ukraine sets the parameters for objects and transport vehicles, deviations from which result in a penalty.

Non-standard and oversized cargo, the transportation of which does not comply with the provisions of the Administrative Code, is subject to the following penalties:

• For the person responsible for the technical condition of the transport vehicle – 680 UAH.
• For the driver – 510 UAH.

In the case of transporting non-standard objects, the vehicle must display a sign indicating “Oversized Cargo.” This sign consists of alternating red and white stripes on a flag or placard. The sign must be placed on the external parts of the cargo.