Over-width cargo refers to cargo whose single-piece width exceeds the maximum width allowed by standard containers or transport vehicles during transportation. Typically, the internal width of a standard container is about 2.35 meters. If the cargo width exceeds this limit (such as large mechanical equipment, engineering components, wind turbine blades, etc.), it must be transported using open-top containers, flat racks, or special flatbed trailers, and an over-limit transport permit may need to be applied for. It is commonly used in heavy cargo logistics, engineering project logistics, and Ro-Ro ship transportation. Precautions: declare in advance to the shipping company or carrier to confirm whether an over-width surcharge is charged; verify width restrictions on bridges, tunnels, and toll stations along the route; reinforce and lash the cargo to prevent shifting. Together with 'over-length cargo' and 'over-height cargo,' it belongs to out-of-gauge cargo, but over-width cargo emphasizes that the transverse dimension exceeds the limit, which may affect adjacent lanes or stowage slots. Difference: ordinary cargo is charged according to standard dimensions, while over-width cargo requires separate calculation of special handling fees and permit fees.
📝 Examples
1. These wind turbine blades are over-width cargo, with a width of 4.2 meters. They must use flat racks and apply for an over-limit transport permit; otherwise, they cannot pass through highway toll stations. (This shows that over-width cargo requires special containers and permits.)
2. Please confirm whether the surcharge for over-width cargo has been included in the quotation, because shipping companies charge an additional 30% over-width handling fee for cargo wider than 2.5 meters. (This shows that over-width cargo incurs extra costs.)
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