Abnormal load work abroad often involves covering considerable distances, crossing national borders in many cases.  From escort cars to permits, the absence of European harmonisation regarding the rules and regulations is a challenge overcome on a daily basis through an understanding of the continental playing field.

The rules overseas vary greatly from country to country.  In terms of paperwork required, time frames for getting permits, legislation regarding trucks, trailers and escort vehicles, marker boards, etc, Convoi provides solutions, facilitating the efficient movement of our clients’ valuable cargo throughout Europe. International work accounts for around 75 percent of Convoi’s business. 

It is vital that hauliers know what they are doing overseas as they will not get away with mistakes lightly. We understand the need for hauliers to have access to a continual update of the changing legislation regarding abnormal loads in Europe. Authorities on the continent have no hesitation in fining hauliers on the spot for even a minor infraction of their laws.

Unlike the UK, where operators only have to wait two to five clear working days for permission to transport most abnormal loads, on the continent lead times can be far greater - Especially for larger transports where route-specific permits are required.

For some dimensions of transport, roaming permits are available in some countries. Frequently many different departments within a country or area need to be notified using their own specific documentation. This is another huge contrast to the ‘one notification for all recipients’ approach in the UK. Convoi has developed close relations with foreign transport ministries over the past few decades ensuring a seamless process from start to completion. Our multi-lingual agents are on hand to help.