Specialized & Heavy Haul Rates
Understanding pricing for oversized, overweight, and specialty freight
Turn your estimate into a freight quote
Compare multi-carrier LTL and truckload quotes in minutes — no account required to start.
| Scenario | Low Range | High Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| RGN/Lowboy (under 500 miles) | $5.95/mile | $8.80/mile | Fixed costs spread over fewer miles; $1,175 minimum |
| RGN/Lowboy (500+ miles) | $4.40/mile | $5.90/mile | Legal-size loads; permits and escorts extra when oversize |
| Permitted oversize loads | +$200 | +$500/state | Permit costs vary by state and dimensions |
| Escort vehicles (when required) | $400/day | $800/day | Per escort vehicle required |
What Affects Your Cost?
Equipment Type
High ImpactRGN and double drop quotes ran about $4.40-$5.90/mile past 500 miles in October 2026, with a $1,175 minimum. Specialized multi-axle trailers for very heavy loads cost more. Equipment selection depends on cargo dimensions and weight.
Permits Required
High ImpactOversize or overweight loads require permits from each state traveled through. Costs range from $50-500+ per state depending on dimensions and weight. Permit processing takes 1-5 business days.
Escort Vehicles
High ImpactWide loads (over 12-14 ft depending on state) or very long loads may require pilot cars. Each escort runs $400-800/day. Some states require front and rear escorts.
Route Surveys
Medium ImpactVery large loads may require route surveys to check bridge weight limits, overhead clearances, and turn radii. Survey costs range from $500-2,000+.
Load Weight
Medium ImpactStandard heavy haul handles up to 48,000 lbs. Superloads exceeding 80,000 lbs gross require special permits, multiple axles, and careful route planning.
Travel Restrictions
Medium ImpactOversized loads often can't travel at night, weekends, or holidays. This extends transit time and may require layovers, adding to costs.
Example Pricing Scenarios
35,000 lbs, 10 ft tall, Texas to Arizona (900 miles), legal size and weight, no permits
38,000 lbs, 12 ft wide, Ohio to Indiana (250 miles), 2 state permits
65,000 lbs, 11 ft wide x 14 ft tall, Pennsylvania to Virginia (350 miles), permits + 1 escort
40,000 lbs, 16 ft wide, California to Nevada (450 miles), permits + 2 escorts