The maximum width allowed for trailers is a crucial issue for drivers and transport companies in both Canada and the USA. 

Compliance with current standards is essential not only to ensure road safety, but also to avoid legal sanctions that can lead to costly fines and delays in operations. 

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of trailer width regulations in these two countries, as well as practical advice on how to correctly measure your trailer and optimize its use. 

We'll also look at the solutions available for transporting large loads and the technological trends influencing the sector. 

Whether you're a transport professional or an individual needing to move goods, this guide will help you navigate the complexities of trailer width standards in North America.

Road safety

Road safety is one of the main reasons why the maximum width of trailers is strictly regulated. 

Trailers that are too wide can obviously create dangerous situations on the road, reducing the driver's ability to maneuver properly and increasing the risk of accidents. 

Excessive width can also encroach on adjacent lanes, endangering other road users.

Legal compliance

Respecting the maximum width authorized for trailers is a legal requirement. 

Each country, and often each state or province, has its own specific regulations on vehicle dimensions to ensure smooth and safe traffic flow. 

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe penalties, such as fines, penalty points on the driver's license, and even vehicle immobilization.

Transport efficiency

Respecting maximum trailer widths also contributes to transport efficiency. 

A trailer with the right dimensions makes it easier to manage routes and optimize parking and loading space. 

This can reduce operational costs and improve on-time delivery. A compliant trailer is also easier to insure, which can reduce insurance costs.

In short, the maximum width of trailers is essential to ensure road safety, comply with current legislation, and optimize transport operations. 

Ignoring these rules can lead to significant risks and additional costs for carriers.

maximum trailer width

The maximum width authorized for trailers in Canada is generally 2.6 meters (8 feet 6 inches). This standard applies to most public roads across the country. 

However, it is important to note that some provinces may have specific regulations or exceptions. Here's an overview of the main provincial rules.

General regulations

Standard width: The standard width for trailers on Canadian roads is 2.6 metres (8 feet 6 inches). 

This dimension includes protruding parts of the trailer, such as mirrors and signal lights.

Provincial variations

Exceptions and derogations

For transporting wide or exceptional goods, special permits can be obtained to exceed the standard width of 2.6 meters. 

These permits are issued by provincial authorities and come with specific conditions, such as designated routes, time restrictions and escort by security vehicles.

In the United States, maximum trailer widths vary from state to state. However, most states follow the federal standards established by the Department of Transportation (DOT)

According to these federal standards, the maximum authorized width for trailers is generally 8 feet 6 inches, or about 2.59 meters. 

However, it is important to note that some states may have different regulations or exceptions for certain types of vehicles or loads.

For precise information on maximum trailer width regulations in a specific U.S. state, we recommend consulting the websites of the state departments of transportation or contacting local authorities. 

Transport department websites generally provide detailed information on traffic regulations, including authorized dimensions for vehicles and trailers.

When measuring the width of a trailer, it's important to include all the parts that contribute to its overall width. Here are the main parts of the trailer that need to be taken into account when measuring:

  1. Overall width: Measure the total width of the trailer from side to side, including all structural elements such as side walls, mirrors, signal lights, wheels and tires.
  1. Protruding elements: Be sure to take into account any protruding elements of the trailer that may extend beyond its main width, such as exterior mirrors, turn signals, reflectors and lighting devices. These elements must be included in the total trailer width measurement to ensure accurate compliance with road regulations.

By taking these two aspects into account when measuring the width of a trailer, you can ensure that you comply with current regulations and guarantee safe travel on the roads.

maximum trailer width

For transporting large loads, several trailer types are adapted to suit specific needs cargo and transport conditions. 

Here are some of the most commonly used types of trailer for large loads.

Flatbed Trailer

Flat trailers offer a flat surface with no side walls, making them ideal for transporting large loads. 

They offer great flexibility for loading and unloading large equipment and materials, such as heavy machinery or construction materials.

Step Deck Trailer

Visit low-loader trailers have a lowered main platform between the axles, enabling higher loads to be carried than on a standard flatbed trailer. 

They are often used to transport high, wide loads, such as industrial equipment or oversized vehicles.

Trailer double drop deck (Double Drop Deck Trailer)

These trailers have a lowered main platform between the axles, plus two additional lowered sections at the front and rear, offering increased capacity for transporting high loads. 

They are particularly suitable for transporting industrial loads or heavy machinery requiring low loading heights.

Removable Gooseneck Trailer (RGN)

RGN trailers feature a removable front section for easy loading and unloading of large, heavy equipment. 

They offer greater loading capacity than fixed gooseneck trailers, and are used to transport large, oversized loads.

B-train trailer

B-train trailers consist of two trailers connected by a special coupling system. 

They offer considerable load capacity and are used to transport a wide variety of goods, including large, bulky loads. 

B-train trailers are often used to transport bulk goods, containers and other bulky loads.

Each type of trailer offers specific advantages in terms of loading capacity, stability and ease of loading/unloading, making them suitable for different types of wide loads. 

It's important to choose the most appropriate type of trailer according to the characteristics of the load to be transported and the requirements of the road.

Whether you have general transportation needs, non-standard loads or complex ocean shipments, Transport BTI is there for you. 

With our extensive experience and commitment to quality and safety, we are ready to meet all your logistical challenges.

Contact us today to discuss your transportation needs and find out how we can help you achieve your goals.