If 2026 is the year your business takes on bigger projects, larger equipment, or more complex logistics, you may be planning your first heavy haul move. Heavy haul trucking involves transporting oversize or overweight loads, which requires specialized trailers, permits, routing, and compliance—especially in Ontario.
At DFS Projects, we help businesses across Southern Ontario plan and execute heavy haul moves with confidence. Whether you’re relocating construction equipment, industrial machinery, or specialized infrastructure components, this guide walks you through everything you need to know before your first move.
Step 1: Understand What Counts as a Heavy Haul
A load is considered heavy haul when it exceeds Ontario’s standard legal road limits.
Ontario legal limits (without permits):
- Width: 2.6 metres (8 ft 6 in)
- Height: 4.15 metres (13 ft 6 in)
- Length: 23 metres (75 ft total – truck + trailer)
- Weight: 63,500 kg (varies by axle configuration)
If your equipment exceeds any of these limits, it qualifies as an oversize or overweight load and requires heavy haul trucking procedures.
Step 2: Gather Accurate Load Information
Before contacting a heavy haul trucking company, make sure you have accurate details about your cargo. This includes:
- Exact dimensions (height, width, length)
- Total weight
- Type of equipment or machinery
- Whether the equipment is operational or non-running
Even small inaccuracies can affect trailer selection, route approvals, and permit requirements. Accurate information upfront saves time and prevents costly delays.
Step 3: Plan for Permits and Regulations
In Ontario, heavy haul moves require Oversize/Overweight Permits issued by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO). These permits are:
- Specific to your load and route
- Issued for a defined date range
- Required before the move begins
Depending on your load, you may also need:
- Escort or pilot vehicles
- Police assistance in certain areas
- Municipal approvals for local roads
DFS Projects handles all permitting on your behalf, ensuring your move stays fully compliant with provincial and municipal regulations.
Step 4: Route Planning Is Critical
Not all roads can support heavy haul loads. Proper route planning considers:
- Bridge weight limits
- Overhead clearances
- Sharp turns and narrow roadways
- Construction zones and detours
- Seasonal restrictions during winter and spring thaw
Urban areas like Hamilton, London, and Mississauga often require additional planning due to tight intersections and traffic controls. DFS Projects plans safe, approved routes before your load ever leaves the yard.
Step 5: Choose the Right Trailer
The type of trailer used depends entirely on your load’s size and weight. Common heavy haul trailers include:
- Flatbeds – for legal or slightly oversize loads
- Step decks – for moderate height equipment
- Lowboys (double drops) – for tall or heavy machinery
- Extendable or multi-axle trailers – for long or extremely heavy loads
DFS Projects selects the appropriate trailer, ensures proper load securement, and assigns experienced Ontario truck drivers for every move.
Step 6: Book Your Heavy Haul Early
Demand for heavy haul trucking continues to grow due to infrastructure projects, manufacturing expansion, and energy development across Ontario. Booking early allows time for:
- Permit processing
- Escort vehicle scheduling
- Route approvals
- Weather contingency planning
For first-time heavy haul moves, planning two to three weeks in advance is ideal.
Step 7: Consider Cross-Border Requirements
If your load is moving into the United States or Mexico, additional planning is required. Cross-border heavy haul trucking may involve:
- Bonded carrier requirements
- Customs documentation
- State or international permits
- Border scheduling and inspections
DFS Projects specializes in cross-border heavy haul transport, handling all documentation and coordination so your load moves smoothly across borders.
What DFS Projects Handles for You
When you partner with DFS Projects, we manage every detail of your heavy haul move, including:
- Load assessment and trailer selection
- All provincial and municipal permits
- Escort vehicle coordination
- Route planning and approvals
- Security, inspections, and transport
- Clear communication from start to finish
Why Choose DFS Projects for Your First Heavy Haul Move?
- Extensive experience across Southern Ontario
- Full-service heavy haul logistics
- Deep knowledge of Ontario road regulations
- Specialized equipment and trained drivers
- Cross-border heavy haul expertise
We don’t just move equipment—we remove the stress from the entire process.
Ready to Plan Your First Heavy Haul Move?
DFS Projects is here to help.
Whether you’re moving construction equipment, industrial machinery, or oversized freight, our team will guide you through every step.