Abnormal loads

If you plan to move a very large or heavy load on roads in South Lanarkshire, you must tell us in advance. We are responsible for local roads and bridges, and we need to check that your move is safe. You must also notify the police in some cases.

This page explains when you need to tell us, how much notice to give, and what happens next.

Who needs to tell us

You must notify us before moving an abnormal load through South Lanarkshire on the local authorities road network. An abnormal load is a vehicle or load that exceeds standard size or weight limits.

When you need to give notice

What you need to do depends on the size and weight of the loaded vehicle.

Loads within standard limits

If your load does not exceed all of the following, you do not need to notify us or the police:

• 2.9 metres wide
• 18.3 metres long (rigid length
• 44,000 kilograms gross weight

Loads above standard limits

If your load is larger or heavier than standard limits, you must give notice. You usually need to:

• give two or five clear days’ notice, depending on size and weight
• notify the police, and in some cases
• notify us with an indemnity for roads and bridges

Extra approval is required if the load is more than 5 metres wide. Very large or heavy loads

If your load exceeds:

• 6.1 metres wide
• 30 metres long
• 150,000 kilograms gross weight, or 16,500 kilograms per axle You must give five clear days’ notice to both us and the police. Clear days do not include weekends or bank holidays.

Height guidance

There is no legal height limit, but we recommend that loads do not exceed 5 metres so they can use motorways and trunk roads safely.

What we will do

We will review your plans and check that the route is safe for roads, bridges and other users.

Typical abnormal loads

Abnormal loads can include wind farm turbines and power station equipment. Some loads moved through the area have weighed up to 400 tonnes.

Find out more or take action

To notify us please contact abnormalloads@southlanarkshire.gov.uk