Abnormal Loads

General Guidance for Hauliers

Legislation requires hauliers to notify the movement of most abnormal loads and abnormal vehicles to the police before moving them by road. There is also a requirement to notify heavier loads and vehicles to highway and bridge authorities to ensure that bridge structures can accommodate these heavy loads. In Scotland, the term highway authority shall be deemed to be road authority. For the largest and heaviest abnormal loads, prior permission before moving is required from the Highways Agency Abnormal Loads Team. If it is an abnormal vehicle, authorisation is required from the Department for Transport.

Tayside Police have criteria which determines the type of escort required for a specific load. Hauliers should refer to the page "Self-Escort Criteria" for initial guidance.

The "Self-Escort Routes" page lists the roads in Tayside generally suitable for self-escort.

Should further clarification be required then contact should be made with the Operational Support HQ Road Policing Unit on 01382 596434 or 596435, or by email to roadpolicingunit@tayside.pnn.police.uk

(Please note office hours are 0900-1700 hours, Monday to Friday)

At least two working days' notice must be given of any movement within the Tayside Police area.

ESDAL (Electronic Service Delivery for Abnormal Loads) can be accessed here. This website allows hauliers to access information produced by the Highways Agency on the movement of abnormal loads.