Raleigh, NC Equipment Hauling, Container Delivery & Oversize Load Transport

Get expert guidance and competitive pricing for your heavy haul shipment.

Heavy Haul, Flatbed, Step Deck & Hot Shot Trucking in Raleigh, North Carolina

It’s essential to partner with a reliable oversize load hauling company when shipping heavy equipment, trucks, or containers to or from Raleigh, NC. As a premier provider of heavy haul trucking in Raleigh, American Heavy Haul has a proven track record of safely moving machinery and freight of all shapes, sizes, and weights. Our focus on safe, insured, and on-time delivery sets us apart from general freight carriers.

We offer a wide variety of equipment hauling and oversize load transport services to and from Raleigh. Our team of dedicated transportation specialists understands step deck loads, flatbed trucking, and hot shot transport, giving you a single point of contact for all your heavy haul needs. Whether you need local moves around the Raleigh metro or long-distance transport across the country, we have the trucks, trailers, and experienced drivers to get it done right.

American Heavy Haul provides complete equipment, container, and oversize load transport services to and from Raleigh, including:

Oversize Load Transport
Port-to-Port Container Transport
Bulk Freight Hauling
Door-to-Door Equipment Delivery
Commercial Machinery Transport
Load Handling Support

Shipping Container Moving
Equipment Hauling Services
Truck & Trailer Transport
Permit Pulling & Escorts
Pilot Car Assistance
And More Equipment Transport

Every customer matters, and so do your shipping needs. That’s why we simplify heavy equipment, container, and truck delivery by handling every step of the process for you — from quoting and scheduling to permits and routing — so you can stay focused on running your business. Our logistics agents coordinate permits, pilot cars, route surveys, and timing to help avoid delays, violations, and unnecessary downtime. Whether you’re an individual moving farm, construction, or industrial machinery, or a company shipping multiple units at once, our B2C and B2B solutions are tailored to your unique requirements. From single-piece moves to ongoing project freight around Raleigh, we build a plan that fits your timeline and budget.

Simplified Oversize Load Transport Throughout Raleigh, North Carolina

At American Heavy Haul, we don’t complicate transport. Your dedicated Raleigh heavy haul specialist manages every detail of your shipment from start to finish. We secure the oversize load permits, arrange pilot cars when needed, plan the most efficient route, and coordinate with job sites for smooth loading and unloading.

Whether you’re shipping machinery into Raleigh or hauling a container from Raleigh to another state, we provide safe, transparent oversize load transport. When you speak with your Raleigh shipping specialist, they’ll walk you through the process, explain requirements, and answer any questions you have about equipment hauling, flatbed trucking, or hot shot service.

We specialize in moving oversize and overweight loads throughout Raleigh and the surrounding industrial areas. Your specialist is there to give you confidence that American Heavy Haul is the best partner for your project — from short local moves to complex, multi-axle permitted loads. Don’t delay. Move your equipment to or from Raleigh with a company that makes it easy from the first call to final delivery. Get your quote now! 419-293-5333

Reliable Raleigh Shipping Container Transport and Delivery

Shipping container transport and delivery is in high demand in Raleigh due to the city’s expanding construction, technology, manufacturing, and distribution sectors that rely on both loaded and empty containers. At American Heavy Haul, we provide everything you need for dependable Raleigh container hauling, whether it’s a one-time move or recurring freight. For years, Raleigh businesses and residents have trusted us to safely move containers to and from job sites, storage yards, and rail ramps. Our drivers and dispatchers understand how to handle container transport efficiently while respecting site rules, timelines, and access limitations throughout the city.

American Heavy Haul offers port-to-business, port-to-door, ramp-to-door, and door-to-door container hauling options. We also ship containers from Raleigh to destinations across the United States. Our team of specialized haulers knows that safe, on-time delivery is critical, so every container move is carefully planned around clearances, weight limits, and scheduling. Every client receives professional, secure container transport and delivery throughout Raleigh. Ready to get started? So are we. Call now for your free, no-obligation Raleigh container hauling quote! 419-293-5333

Speak with a specialized logistics agent today!

Common Container Types We Move

We safely transport standard, high-cube, refrigerated, and open-top containers for projects of all sizes in and around Raleigh.

North Carolina Oversize Load Regulations

North Carolina follows strict legal load limits for all commercial trucks operating without a permit.
Maximum legal width: 8 feet 6 inches
Maximum legal height: 13 feet 6 inches
Maximum length:
• Single-unit truck: 40–45 feet
• Combination vehicle (tractor + trailer): 60–70+ feet depending on configuration
Standard gross vehicle weight (GVW): 80,000 pounds (truck + trailer + load)
Axle weight limits:
• Single axle: 20,000 lbs
• Tandem axle: 34,000 lbs
• Tridem axle groups: 42,000 to 60,000 lbs depending on spacing
Any load exceeding these limits requires a North Carolina oversize or overweight permit.
These rules ensure safe transportation across bridges, highways, and industrial corridors.
Following legal limits helps prevent delays, permit violations, and costly fines.

Any load wider than 8 feet 6 inches requires an oversize permit issued by NCDOT.
Loads exceeding 12 feet typically require at least one certified escort or pilot car for safe movement through highways, ramps, and industrial zones.
When width goes over 14 feet, North Carolina may enforce additional safety requirements depending on the specific route.
Loads wider than 16 feet generally require a state police escort and a pre-approved route review due to limited lane availability and bridge clearance restrictions.
Urban areas like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro may apply extra width restrictions during peak traffic hours.
Wide loads must display proper Oversize Load signage, warning flags, and adequate lighting to maximize visibility.
Drivers must follow lane-positioning rules to prevent encroaching into opposing traffic lanes.
North Carolina strictly enforces safe passing distances and speed controls for all wide-load transport.

Oversize loads must display clear “OVERSIZE LOAD” banners on the front and rear of the vehicle.
All four corners of the load must have 18-inch red or orange warning flags for maximum visibility.
Amber beacon lights or LED flashing lights are typically required on both the tractor and escort vehicles.
Drivers must carry a valid, up-to-date North Carolina oversize permit at all times during transport.
Escort vehicles must meet NCDOT equipment standards, including communication radios and height poles.
Loads must be secured with rated chains, binders, and proper tie-downs based on the equipment’s weight.
Drivers must follow the exact permitted route; any deviation can result in fines or escort suspension.
Proper compliance with safety rules ensures smooth, safe transport across highways, bridges, and city routes.

A permit is required when the total vehicle length exceeds 60–70 feet, depending on the configuration.
Loads longer than 105 feet usually require one or more escort vehicles to help with traffic control and turning maneuvers.
Extreme-length loads over 120 feet may require a state police escort and an NCDOT-approved route plan.
Long loads often struggle with sharp curves, tight urban turns, and multi-lane merging on North Carolina roads.
Many industrial corridors and city routes require advance notice due to limited turning radius and restricted intersections.
Extra care is needed when hauling long items like bridge beams, wind turbine blades, and structural steel.
Oversized long loads may face time-of-day restrictions, especially during peak traffic periods.
Drivers must follow lane-control rules and avoid sudden braking to maintain stability and prevent load shift.

An oversize permit is required for any load higher than 13 feet 6 inches due to bridge and overhead clearance limits.
Loads exceeding 15 feet often require a route survey to check for overhead obstacles such as power lines, signage structures, and older bridge designs common across North Carolina highways.
When height exceeds 16 feet, escort vehicles equipped with height poles are typically required to lead the load.
Many North Carolina cities have older infrastructure with limited clearances, making proper height checks essential, especially within busy areas of Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington.
Extremely tall loads may be restricted from traveling through tunnels, certain interchanges, or downtown zones.
Drivers must maintain controlled speeds to prevent sway and maintain stability for top-heavy loads.
Incorrect measurements may result in fines, delays, or mandatory routing adjustments.
Following height regulations helps prevent collisions, structural damage, and costly transport interruptions.

Oversize loads in North Carolina are generally restricted to daylight travel only, from sunrise to sunset.
Night travel is banned for loads requiring escorts or for extremely large shipments.
Movement may be halted during periods of heavy traffic, poor visibility, or severe weather such as heavy rain, fog, or storms.
Oversize transport is restricted on major holidays including New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Weekend restrictions may apply depending on the type and size of the load.
Urban areas, especially Charlotte and Raleigh, may enforce additional rush-hour restrictions during peak travel periods.
Escorted or extra-wide loads may require special scheduling approvals to avoid congestion or safety issues.
Violating travel time regulations may cause delays, citations, or even permit suspension.

Start Your Shipment Today with American Heavy Haul

Fast response. Expert routing. Fully insured.
Call 419-293-5333 or request a quote below.

24/7 Dispatch Available

Raleigh, NC Oversize Load Regulations & City-Specific Restrictions

Restricted Areas in Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh (Central Business District)
Oversize loads are often restricted during peak commuter hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM, Monday through Friday). Special routing is typically required to avoid congestion, tight turns, government areas, and low-clearance zones around the city center.

Railroad Overpasses and Low-Clearance Bridges

Several older structures in and around central Raleigh have lower clearances requiring careful planning. Notable low-clearance points include:
• Peace Street railroad underpasses
• Capital Boulevard crossings
• Hillsborough Street and NC State University area underpasses

Preferred Oversize Load Routes

I-77 and I-85 Corridor
These major interstates through Charlotte are common routes for large and heavy equipment transport, subject to permitting and routing requirements.

I-485 Outer Loop
Often recommended for oversize loads to avoid downtown congestion. It provides smoother access to I-77, I-85, US-74, and Charlotte’s industrial zones.

US-74 (Independence Blvd) and Wilkinson Blvd
Frequently used for access to construction sites, manufacturing centers, and distribution hubs across the Charlotte region. With proper planning, these corridors can handle many moderate oversize loads and container moves.

City Permits and Police Escort Requirements

Local Permits
The City of Raleigh may require a local permit in addition to the NCDOT oversize permit, especially when traveling on city streets, industrial areas, or job sites.

Police Escort
A Raleigh Police Department escort may be required if the route includes downtown surface streets, passes near high-traffic areas such as government buildings, schools, or universities, or if the load affects multiple lanes, traffic signals, or exceeds width thresholds within the city.

Safe and On-Time Oversize Load Delivery in Raleigh

For years, American Heavy Haul has provided everything needed for safe and dependable Raleigh equipment transport. That includes heavy machinery, heavy-duty trucks, loaded and empty containers, and more. Our mission is to deliver high-quality hauling services at competitive rates while keeping your site requirements and schedule in mind. We serve commercial, industrial, and residential customers across the broader Raleigh region.

Every Raleigh oversize, overweight, or container move is routed in advance to account for tight turns, clearances, and traffic expectations. Many of our customers are small and mid-sized businesses that depend on reliable deliveries to keep projects running on time. That’s why American Heavy Haul emphasizes safety, DOT compliance, and clear communication from dispatch to delivery. Transport with a company that treats your freight like its own. Call now for your free, no-obligation Raleigh heavy haul quote! 419-293-5333

Speak with a specialized logistics agent today!

Why Choose American Heavy Haul for Equipment, Container & Oversize Load Transport

Choosing American Heavy Haul means choosing a team that understands every aspect of North Carolina heavy haul trucking. From the first consultation to final delivery, we coordinate permits, escort vehicles, insurance documents, route surveys, and scheduling — so you can stay focused on your operations while we handle the logistics.

With over a decade of experience in heavy haul, flatbed, step deck, and hot shot trucking, we combine insured carriers, a nationwide trailer network, and 24/7 dispatch support to deliver reliable, cost-effective, and compliant transport solutions.

We take pride in being one of the few heavy haul providers serving Raleigh that offers real-time updates, compliance-focused planning, and nationwide reach — helping ensure your machinery, containers, and project cargo arrive safely and efficiently.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, competitive pricing with no hidden fees.

Licensed & Insured

Fully licensed, bonded, and insured Alabama heavy haul carriers.

ALDOT-Certified Drivers

ALDOT-compliant drivers familiar with every major Alabama interstate and highway.

10+ Years Expertise

10+ years of proven expertise in oversize, overweight, and specialized freight.

24/7 Dispatch & Tracking

24/7 dispatch and shipment visibility for transparent communication.

Nationwide Fleet Network

Nationwide network of flatbed, step deck, RGN, multi-axle, and extendable trailers.

Pilot Car and Escort Vehicle Services

American Heavy Haul provides pilot cars and escort vehicles to guide oversize loads safely in and around Raleigh, NC. Proper escorts help protect your equipment, your driver, and the public.

Need pilot cars for your heavy haul? We’ve got you covered with professional, experienced escort partners.

Common Equipment American Heavy Haul Transports

American Heavy Haul specializes in transporting construction, industrial, agricultural, and oversize machinery across Raleigh, North Carolina, and the rest of the United States. Every load is moved with a focus on safety, timing, and strict DOT compliance.

Serving Every Corner of North Carolina

From the manufacturing hubs of Charlotte and Greensboro to the ports of Wilmington and the research corridors of Raleigh, we cover every region with full permit support, insured drivers, and freight solutions for heavy haul, flatbed, and hot shot trucking.

Trailer Types Offered by American Heavy Haul

We provide every major trailer type used in the U.S. heavy haul and oversize freight industry. Each trailer is selected based on your load dimensions, weight, route, and safety requirements.

Flatbed Trailers

Open-deck trailers designed for a wide mix of industrial freight including machinery, pallets, steel, pipe, and building materials.

Standard deck length: 48–53 ft
Typical capacity: up to ~48,000–50,000 lbs
No sides or roof for easy crane and side loading
Supports chains, binders, straps, and full tarping
Ideal for long, wide, or odd-shaped freight
Strong nationwide availability for fast dispatch

Best for: palletized loads, lumber, steel, machinery.

Step Deck Trailers

Trailers with a lower main deck behind the step that provide extra height clearance for taller machines and equipment.

Overall length: 48–53 ft common
Lower deck height: ~36–42 inches
Upper deck for pallets and smaller items
Allows taller freight without special permits in many cases
Safer for top-heavy or tall equipment than standard flatbeds
Compatible with ramps and dock loading in many yards

Best for: tractors, loaders, farm and construction gear.

Double Drop Deck

Specialized trailers with a deep center “well” that rides very low to move extremely tall freight within legal or permitted height limits.

Center well length: often 25–30 ft
Well deck height: around 18–24 inches
Front and rear decks raised for axle clearance
Ideal for freight that cannot be disassembled
Helps reduce bridge and overhead clearance issues
Common in heavy industrial and project cargo moves

Best for: tall tanks, press frames, industrial modules.

RGN – Removable Gooseneck

Trailers with a detachable front neck so the deck can drop to the ground and form a ramp for loading heavy, self-driven equipment.

Front neck detaches for drive-on loading
Well lengths commonly 20–30 ft or longer
Available in 2–13 axle configurations
Handles very heavy, compact equipment
Low deck height to manage overall load height
Highly flexible for construction and mining machinery

Best for: dozers, cranes, scrapers, heavy wheeled units.

Lowboy Trailers

Heavy-duty low-deck trailers built to move tall and heavy construction or industrial machinery while managing clearance restrictions.

Very low deck height compared to flatbeds
Commonly rated for 40,000–80,000+ lbs, depending on axles
Multiple axle configurations for heavy freight
Supports crawlers, tracked units, and large wheeled machines
Often used with outriggers for wider equipment
Engineered to handle rough job-site conditions

Best for: excavators, dozers, large job-site equipment.

Landoll Trailers

Hydraulic sliding-axle trailers that tilt the deck to the ground for fast loading when docks, ramps, or forklifts are limited.

Deck can tilt and slide to ground level
Ideal for roll-on/roll-off loading
Often 48–53 ft in length
Handles mixed fleets, trucks, and equipment
Reduces need for separate ramps or loading docks
Great for recovery, relocation, and remarketing loads

Best for: trucks, buses, mixed small equipment fleets.

Extendable Flatbed

Telescoping flatbed trailers that stretch beyond standard length to legally move very long loads while controlling overhang.

Closed length often 48–53 ft
Extended length can exceed 70+ ft
Adjustable to match exact freight length
Helps comply with bridge and overhang rules
Designed for long, uniform freight pieces
Still offers open-deck loading flexibility

Best for: long beams, blades, pipes, structural steel.

Conestoga Curtain-Side

Flatbed-style trailers equipped with a rolling curtain system to protect freight from weather while keeping side-loading access.

Sliding curtain acts like a moving “van” wall
Deck size similar to standard flatbeds
Full weather protection without losing side access
Excellent for finished or painted products
Helps reduce risk of tarp damage and delays
Supports both forklift and crane loading

Best for: finished machinery, painted parts, sensitive freight.

Extendable RGN

Removable gooseneck trailers with stretchable wells that combine low deck height with extended length for unique industrial freight.

Closed well similar to standard RGN lengths
Extended well for long plant or process components
Maintains drive-on loading through detachable neck
Ideal for tall and long equipment combined
Helps reduce need for multiple separate shipments
Requires careful planning and experienced operators

Best for: long presses, plant components, specialized machinery.

Multi-Axle Heavy Haul

Engineered multi-axle trailers using jeeps, boosters, and dollies to spread extreme weight across more axles and protect infrastructure.

Custom 5–13+ axle configurations
Supports superload weights far above standard limits
Often requires route surveys and special permits
Configurable for bridge and road limitations
Used for large industrial, energy, and infrastructure cargo
Operated by highly experienced heavy haul carriers

Best for: superloads, extreme weight, and specialized projects.

Dry Van Trailers

Enclosed box trailers that keep freight protected from weather, theft, and road debris during transport.

Typical length: 48–53 ft
Fully enclosed with lockable doors
Ideal for boxed, crated, and palletized products
Multiple E-track or logistics post options inside
High cube options for extra volume capacity
Common in retail, manufacturing, and distribution freight

Best for: packaged goods, pallets, non-hazardous freight.

Hot Shot / Gooseneck

Smaller, pickup-pulled trailers for lighter freight and urgent deliveries that need to move quickly across regional or short-haul lanes.

Common deck lengths: 30–40+ ft
Lower GVW than full-size semi-trailers
Great for partials and less-than-truckload freight
Can access tighter locations than standard trucks
Frequently used for last-minute or rush projects
Flexible option for small machines and equipment

Best for: light machinery, partials, urgent freight.

Power Only Trucking

Tractor and driver services where American Heavy Haul hooks to your pre-loaded or customer-owned trailer and moves it to the next destination.

Supports dry vans, flatbeds, tankers, and specialty trailers
Ideal when you own the trailer but need a carrier
Available for regional or long-haul moves
Flexible scheduling for live loads or drop-and-hook
Reduces need to maintain your own driver pool
Helps reposition empty or loaded trailers efficiently

Best for: customer-owned trailers, mobile offices, specialized units.

Pilot Cars & Escort Vehicles

Lead and chase vehicles that support oversize shipments with traffic control, height checks, and on-the-road safety communication.

Front and rear escorts for wide or long loads
Height-pole cars to check bridges and overheads
Two-way radios for constant contact with drivers
Required by many states for large oversize moves
Helps manage lane changes, turns, and merges
Improves overall safety for the public and the load

Best for: oversize loads requiring route protection and escorts.

American Heavy Haul & Logistics