The council's highways section checks proposed heavy load movements across bridges and along roads within South Gloucestershire, with the exception of motorways.
What is an abnormal load?
An abnormal load is a vehicle carrying more than 44 tonnes, an axle load of more than 11.5 tonnes, more than 3 metres wide or more than 18.75 metres long.
What is the notice period?
Before a haulier moves an abnormal load, the law requires them to give a minimum of two clear days of notice. 'Clear days' excludes Saturdays, Sundays, Bank Holidays, Christmas Day and Good Friday. The notice period increases as the vehicle size and weight increases.
Depending on the gross weight and dimensions of the load, the following need to be informed of movements:
- Highway Authority
- All bridge owners along the route - for instance Network Rail
- Police
- Department of Transport
Please provide us with the following information:
- Origin and destination of abnormal load
- Dates of journey
- Proposed route
- Full configuration of vehicle - loads, width, weight, length, height, axle loading and spacing
- Vehicle Registration
- Contact details
Further general information can be found on the Department for Transport's and Highways Agency's websites. These can both be found by clicking on the appropriate link in the 'Other websites' box on the right-hand side of this page.