When it comes to freight, not all loads are created equal. Heavy haul and over-dimensional (OD) shipments present unique challenges that go far beyond what’s required for standard truckload freight. From permitting and routing to equipment selection and risk mitigation, these shipments require deep experience, precise coordination, and strong carrier relationships.
For many brokers and freight professionals, partnering through co-brokerage is the most effective—and compliant—way to move this kind of freight.
At Freight SideKick, we specialize in helping our broker partners navigate the complexities of heavy haul and OD shipments. In this article, we’ll break down why co-brokerage can be essential for these specialized moves and how to do it right.
What Makes Heavy Haul and Over-Dimensional Freight Unique?
Heavy haul and over-dimensional freight includes shipments that exceed standard legal dimensions and/or weight limits for highway travel. These loads typically require:
- Specialized equipment (e.g., lowboys, RGNs, stretch trailers)
- Permits from multiple jurisdictions
- Escort vehicles and route surveys
- Time-sensitive coordination with DOT, local municipalities, and carriers
- Carrier vetting and experience verification
One misstep in this process can lead to costly delays, fines, or safety violations. That’s why experience and oversight matter.
Why Some Brokers Shouldn’t Go It Alone
Even seasoned freight brokers can struggle with:
- Lack of specialized carrier relationships
- Limited knowledge of state-by-state permit rules
- Inexperience with escort coordination or high-value cargo risk management
Rather than risking a bad outcome, brokers often partner with experts who do this every day. That’s where co-brokerage becomes a strategic solution.
How Co-Brokerage Supports Heavy Haul Freight
Co-brokerage is a legal, transparent agreement between two licensed brokers to work together on a shipment. For heavy haul and OD loads, the co-broker typically:
- Brings expertise in equipment selection, permitting, and routing
- Manages carrier vetting and dispatch
- Coordinates state and local compliance
- Handles communication and contingency planning
This allows the originating broker (often Broker A) to continue managing the customer relationship while Broker B handles the operational heavy lifting.
Co-Brokerage vs. Double Brokering in Specialized Freight
Because multiple parties may be involved in planning and moving a specialized load, it’s especially important to distinguish legal co-brokerage from illegal double brokering:
| Practice | Legal? | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Co-Brokerage | ✅ Yes | Transparent, FMCSA-compliant, with all parties informed |
| Double Brokering | ❌ No | Unauthorized, opaque, and often involves carriers acting as brokers |
Heavy haul shipments have zero margin for error, so it’s critical that every party involved is licensed, insured, and aligned on the plan.
When Should You Consider a Heavy Haul Co-Broker?
- Your customer requests equipment you don’t normally source (e.g., 9+ axle trailers)
- The shipment exceeds legal width, height, or weight limits
- The freight requires permits across multiple states
- You want to ensure safe, legal routing and risk mitigation
Why Brokers Trust Freight SideKick with Specialized Freight
At Freight SideKick, we provide:
- Deep experience with OD and heavy haul equipment and permitting
- A vetted network of specialty carriers and escort providers
- Real-time tracking and communication for complex moves
- Co-brokerage transparency and documentation
- The ability to scale your service offering without taking on unnecessary risk
We help you deliver for your customers — even on the most difficult loads.
Take the Stress Out of Heavy Haul
Heavy haul and over-dimensional freight requires more than just effort — it demands expertise. Through co-brokerage with Freight SideKick, you gain a trusted partner that lets you take on specialized freight with confidence and compliance.
Visit our Co-Brokerage Page to request a co-brokerage agreement today.
