What is heavy transport and when is it necessary?

A Heavy transport is a transport operation in which particularly large, heavy or bulky goods are transported that cannot be moved with normal transport vehicles. These transports often require Special permits, special vehicles and safety measuresBut when exactly is heavy transport necessary, and what regulations apply?

1. Definition: What is heavy transport?

A transport is considered Heavy transportif the vehicle with load exceeds one or more of the following limits:

📏 Dimensions (according to StVO § 29 and § 46):
✅ length: More than 20.75 m
✅ Width: More than 2.55 m
✅ Height: More than 4.00 m
✅ Weight: More than 40 tons total weight

As soon as a transport exceeds these dimensions, special regulations apply and a Special permit needed.

💡 Tip: Even if a load “just barely” exceeds these values, it can be classified as heavy transport and require a permit.

2. When is heavy transport necessary?

🚛 Heavy transport is required in many areas, e.g.:

✅ Industry & Mechanical Engineering – Transport of manufacturing plants, machines & production lines
✅ Construction industry – Transport of precast concrete elements, steel beams, cranes or bridge elements
✅ Energy sector – Transport of wind turbines, transformers or turbine parts
✅ agriculture – Transport of large tractors, combine harvesters or silos
✅ Shipbuilding & Aviation – Transport of ship parts or aircraft components
✅ Events & Trade Fairs – Transport of stage elements, exhibition stands or large sculptures

💡 Tip: If you are unsure whether your transport is considered “heavy transport”, it is worth Advice from a specialized transport company.

3. What permits are required for heavy goods transport?

Heavy transport may not be carried out without official approval. Depending on the size and weight, various permits are required:

📜 Main permits for heavy transport:
✅ Exemption according to § 70 StVZO (for vehicles that do not comply with the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations)
✅ Special permit according to § 29 para. 3 StVO (if size or weight exceeds legal limits)
✅ Transport permit according to § 46 StVO (for oversized or particularly heavy transports)

📍 Possible additional requirements:
✅ Police escort for very large or heavy transports
✅ Escort vehicles (BF2, BF3 or BF4) for traffic safety
✅ Night driving permit to avoid traffic disruptions

💡 Tip: The approval period may vary depending on the federal state between 1–4 weeks – so plan early!

4. Which vehicles are used for heavy transport?

🔹 Low loaders & heavy-duty semi-trailers – Transport for oversized machines & components
🔹 Modular heavy-duty transporters – Flexibly adaptable for extremely large loads
🔹 Self-propelled transport platforms (SPMTs) – For very heavy or sensitive goods
🔹 Special cranes & lifting technology – If loading and unloading has special requirements

💡 Tip: Depending on the weight and size of the goods being transported, a specially adapted vehicle is required – therefore detailed transport planning is crucial.

5. Special challenges in heavy transport

🚧 Road traffic & route planning
✅ Some routes are unsuitable for heavy transport (bridges, narrow roads)
✅ Closures or diversions must be planned in advance

⚙ Load securing & safety measures
✅ Special brackets & fuses required
✅ Escort vehicles & police protection if necessary for transport

📋 International heavy transport
✅ Different regulations in other countries
✅ Toll fees & special permits for crossing borders

💡 Tip: Anyone planning an international heavy transport should consider a Special forwarding workwho is familiar with the relevant regulations.

6. Checklist for a successful heavy transport

📌 Before transport:
✅ Determine exact dimensions & weight of the cargo
✅ Route planning including bridge heights and road widths
✅ Apply for permits and any special requests

📌 During transport:
✅ Ensure road safety with escort vehicles or police escort
✅ Ensure communication with authorities & road safety

📌 Upon arrival:
✅ Professional unloading with heavy-duty cranes or special vehicles
✅ Final inspection of the cargo & if necessary assembly/commissioning

💡 Tip: A detailed schedule helps avoid delays and unexpected additional costs.

Conclusion: When is heavy transport necessary and what is important?

✔ A transport is considered heavy transport if the weight or dimensions exceed certain limits
✔ Special permits & special vehicles are required
✔ Early planning & professional logistics experts avoid delays
✔ Safety measures and route planning are crucial for a smooth process

🚛 Do you need professional support for a heavy transport? Praktik Transport offers tailor-made solutions for heavy and special transport in Berlin and throughout Germany! Get a non-binding offer now! 🏗✨