Loads that will not fit into a standard trailer, that scrape bridge clearances or that spill over the lane line call for an entirely different kind of expertise. Out-of-gauge cargo transport is the movement of goods that exceed legal vehicle dimensions or weight limits, using special permits, special equipment and special planning. From machinery builders to energy investors, many industries rely on this service regularly. Özd Global manages out-of-gauge moves on domestic and international routes from its base in Gebze.
What Counts as Out-of-Gauge Cargo?
Road regulations define maximum width, height, length and weight values for a vehicle and load combination. Once any of these values is exceeded, the cargo is considered out-of-gauge (OOG). Commonly accepted thresholds are approximately as follows:
| Dimension | Standard Limit (approx.) | Considered Out-of-Gauge |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 2.55 m | Above 2.55 m |
| Height | 4.00 m | Above 4.00 m |
| Length (articulated) | 16.50 m | Above 16.50 m |
| Gross weight | 40–44 tonnes | Above the limit |
Since values differ by country and road class, current regulations must be checked before every move.
Typical Out-of-Gauge Loads
- Transformers, generators and turbine components
- Construction and mining machinery
- Precast concrete elements and steel structures
- Tanks, silos, reactors and pressure vessels
- Yachts, boats and industrial press machines
How the Permit Process Works
Permit management is the most critical stage of out-of-gauge cargo transport. Once the cargo dimensions and route are fixed, an application is filed with the relevant road authority. It includes the vehicle's technical data, cargo dimensions, axle loads and the planned itinerary. The authority evaluates bridge capacities, tunnel heights and roadworks and issues the permit with conditions. These may include night-only movement, speed restrictions, the number of escort vehicles and a ban on entering city centres at certain hours.
Permit lead times range from a few days to several weeks depending on the size of the load. For international moves, each transit country needs its own permit, which extends the planning horizon.
Escort and Safety Rules
Escort vehicles are mandatory above certain dimensions. The escort team travels ahead of and behind the convoy, warns other drivers, controls traffic at narrow passages and checks clearances under bridges. For very wide or very heavy loads, a police escort may also be required. In addition:
- Reflective markers and warning boards are fitted to all four corners of the load.
- Extra lighting is used for night moves.
- For tall loads, appointments to lift power and telephone lines are booked in advance.
- Convoy speed is usually fixed below normal traffic speed.
Choosing the Right Equipment
The weight and shape of the cargo dictate the trailer. The main options in our road freight fleet and partner network are:
- Lowbed trailer: The most common solution for tall loads; carrying the cargo close to the ground reduces overall height.
- Extendable (telescopic) trailer: For long beams, pipes and turbine blades.
- Modular hydraulic trailer (SPMT/MHT): For loads reaching several hundred tonnes, axle lines are added to spread the road load.
- Well (drop-deck) trailer: Seats very tall and heavy items such as transformers in the centre of the deck.
For projects with a sea leg, once the cargo reaches the port our sea freight team selects the best option among flat rack containers, RoRo and breakbulk.
Tip: Involve your logistics team early when designing or packing the cargo. A few centimetres of height can often mean a faster permit and lower escort costs.
Factors That Drive the Cost
Out-of-gauge cargo transport is not priced from a fixed tariff. The main cost items are trailer type, distance, permit and escort fees, line-lifting operations, crane requirements and insurance. Compared with a standard move over the same distance, the cost can be several times higher; yet careful planning lowers the total by removing idle time and the risk of penalties. Özd Global provides a transparent, itemised quote after inspection.
Out-of-Gauge Transport with Özd Global
Located in the Kocaeli industrial basin, Özd Global moves out-of-gauge cargo from the factory gate to the delivery point under one responsibility. Our project logistics team conducts the route survey, obtains permits, organises escorts and cranes, and reports every step in real time. For overseas projects, transit permits and customs formalities are also part of our scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an out-of-gauge permit take?
Domestic permits are usually issued within three to ten working days. For very heavy loads that require bridge calculations, or for routes crossing several countries, the process can stretch to a few weeks.
Does every out-of-gauge load need an escort vehicle?
No. The escort requirement depends on how far the limits are exceeded. Minor excesses may only need warning markers, while loads above certain width and length values require one or two escort vehicles and, in some cases, a police escort.
Are out-of-gauge loads only moved at night?
Authorities often mandate night movement through cities and on busy corridors. On intercity motorway sections, daytime movement may be allowed; this is stated explicitly on the permit.
Out-of-gauge cargo transport becomes safe through experience and meticulous planning. Share your cargo dimensions, contact Özd Global and let us build a transport plan tailored to your load.
