Every day in the United States, trucks transport millions of products, goods and essential items across the country. Semi-trailers transporting precious cargo, ranging from mail to manufacturing supplies to food products, support the vast and complex commerce system that drives our economy forward.
There are very few limitations on what can be shipped on a truck throughout the United States. Trucks haul approximately 80% of all cargo moved through the United States, with the industry now worth over $700 billion. Millions of U.S. companies rely heavily on trucks maintain their supply chains and keep their systems flowing smoothly.
Besides refrigerated goods and some restricted items, we haul most general and mixed freight, including mail, machinery, company supplies, electronics, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing products, leather and textiles.
According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, the maximum height that a load can carry is 13 feet and 6 inches, with no specific maximum length of a truck with a trailer. Several designated highways only allow lengths up to 65 ft long, and a small number which allow only up to 59 ft long.
Weights permitted on most highways are determined by the maximum axle weights and the maximum wheel load.
On rigid pavements, the maximum axle weights allowable are reduced by 25%, with the maximum weight per inch of tire width set at 525 pounds. On flexible pavements, the maximum axle weights allowable are reduced by 35%, with the maximum weight per inch of tire width set at 450 lbs. All truckers must keep detailed written records of all transported items, driving time and starting and stopping points. Violations of these rules regarding highway safety laws can result in various levels of fines and other disciplinary actions for both truck drivers and their companies.
For more information about what our trucks haul from the experts at Roth Trucking, please contact us here or call us directly at 800.522.7684.