Transporting abnormal loads by road
If you are involved in the moving of abnormally large loads in Northern Ireland, there is a straightforward process that you need to follow.
Who to tell
There are only two authorities to tell if you propose to move a large load along Northern Ireland's roads:
DfI Roads
Anyone wishing to move an abnormal load must tell DfI Roads by sending an Abnormal Loads (AL1) Application Form for:
- all loads more than 38 tonnes on four axles
- all loads more than 40 tonnes on five axles
- all loads more than 44 tonnes on six axles
- all loads more than five metres in width
Two clear working days' notice is required for all of the above.
Five clear working days' notice is required for:
- all loads more than 80 tonnes
- all loads more than 6.1 metres in width
- all loads more than 27.4 metres in length
A special permit is required for:
- all loads more than 150 tonnes
- all loads more than 6.1 metres in width
- all loads more than 27.4 metres in length
You can download the application form from the link below:
Although there is no legal requirement, it is advisable to tell DfI Roads about all loads more than 4.3 metres in width, due to width restrictions on certain routes throughout the province.
For further information, contact DfI Roads Abnormal Loads Office.
Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI)
You must give the PSNI two days notice to arrange movement of an abnormal load. You have to fill out a 'Notification of abnormal loads' form, which you can download from the link below:
The form must be emailed to the PSNI Abnormal Loads Office, or you can also contact the PSNI by phone or post about transporting an abnormal load.