Moving an abnormal load safely is about far more than the lorry carrying it. Wide, long, high or very heavy loads need careful route planning, the right notifications, and in many cases an escort vehicle to warn other road users and guide the load through pinch points. Northampton Road Haulage provides private escort vehicles and self-escort support across Northamptonshire and beyond, working alongside our heavy and abnormal load transport so the whole job is managed by one team.
What an escort vehicle does
Since police no longer routinely escort most abnormal loads, that responsibility now sits with the haulier through private escort vehicles. A trained escort crew positions ahead of or behind the load to manage traffic, warn of the load’s width or length, and help it negotiate roundabouts, narrow sections and tight turns.
- Front and rear escort for wide, long and projecting loads
- Self-escort support for STGO category movements
- Traffic management through junctions, roundabouts and pinch points
- Beacons, signage and warning equipment for high-visibility cover
- Experienced crews familiar with the local road network
Route planning and notifications
Before the wheels turn, the route is the most important part of the job. We survey the proposed route for low bridges, weight limits, width restrictions and tight bends, and we submit the required notifications to the police, and to the highway and bridge authorities, within the legal timescales. Movements are planned to avoid peak traffic and to fit any conditions set by the authorities, so the load runs smoothly on the day.
Why use our escort service
Because our escort vehicles work hand in hand with our own heavy haulage, there is no gap between the load and the cover around it. One team plans the route, files the paperwork, and runs the move, which means fewer surprises and clear accountability from start to finish.
- Escort and transport arranged together as one job
- Proper notifications and route surveys handled for you
- Local knowledge of Northamptonshire roads and restrictions
- Clear planning around abnormal load regulations
Plan your abnormal load move
Call Northampton Road Haulage on 01604 385213 to arrange escort vehicles and route planning for your load.
Abnormal load escort FAQs
When does a load need an escort vehicle?
It depends on the load’s width, length and weight and the route it must take. Wider and longer loads, and STGO category movements, generally need one or more escort vehicles, and the notifications to the authorities will often set this out. We assess each move and advise what is required.
Do you handle the police and authority notifications?
Yes. As part of the service we plan the route and submit the necessary notifications to the police and the highway and bridge authorities within the required notice periods, so the move is properly cleared before it sets off.