Abnormal loads

Who to inform

Hauliers wishing to move "abnormal loads" must inform in advance, the following authorities of the routes they intend to use:

• Wiltshire Council
• Highways England (opens new window)
• Network Rail (opens new window)
• Canal & River Trust (opens new window)
• Wiltshire Police (opens new window)

Wiltshire Council liaises with the police and hauliers and check all the routes submitted for height, weight, width and axle load restrictions. They will also re-route the vehicles if necessary.

The Council makes sure the hauliers have the correct indemnity policies to cover any damage that maybe incurred whilst travelling through the County.

Hauliers are encouraged to submit the route through the ESDAL Portal (opens new window) managed by Highways England.

Wiltshire County Boundary

Three Highway Authorities operate within the geographical boundary of Wiltshire council:

• Wiltshire council non trunk roads
• Swindon Borough council non trunk roads within the Swindon Borough council boundary
• Highways England trunk roads and motorways

In addition there are two bridge authorities:

• Network Rail (opens new window)
• Canal & River Trust (opens new window)

Depending on the chosen route, one, some or all of these authorities may need notification.