Question 1

What is the pilot car shortage in Canada?

Accepted Answer

20 critical regions + 0 counties/cities are in critical or severe pilot car shortage in Canada. Top shortage: MB (ratio n/a). Full data and methodology are published by Haul Command and updated quarterly.

Question 2

Where are the low-clearance bridges in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Heavy haul infrastructure analysis for Canada: 4 bridges (0 low-clearance, 0 strikes), 0 overhead lines (0 low, 0 strikes). Full data and methodology are published by Haul Command and updated quarterly.

Question 3

Pilot Car vs Escort Vehicle — which do I need in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Pilot cars and escort vehicles serve similar roles in oversize/overweight moves but differ by jurisdiction and load size. Pilot cars typically lead or follow the load; escort vehicles often include high-pole or steer-car responsibilities and may require additional certifications. Requirements vary by state/province. Haul Command lists both pilot car operator and escort vehicle operator providers in Canada. Use the directory to compare options for your specific move.

Question 4

Route Survey vs Permit Service — which do I need in Canada?

Accepted Answer

A route survey provider physically drives the route to verify clearances, turns, bridge ratings, and pinch points BEFORE a load moves. A permit service handles regulatory paperwork with state/provincial authorities. Many superloads need both services. Haul Command lists both route survey provider and permit service providers in Canada. Use the directory to compare options for your specific move.

Question 5

High-Pole Escort vs Standard Pilot Car — which do I need in Canada?

Accepted Answer

A high-pole escort uses a vertical pole (typically 13'6"-15") to physically verify overhead clearances along the route, required for loads with significant overhead dimension. A standard pilot car alerts traffic and provides road warning but does not verify clearance. High-pole work commands higher rates. Haul Command lists both high pole escort and standard pilot car providers in Canada. Use the directory to compare options for your specific move.

Question 6

Heavy Haul Broker vs Carrier — which do I need in Canada?

Accepted Answer

A heavy haul broker arranges transport and connects shippers with qualified carriers, handling permits and coordination. A heavy haul carrier owns the equipment and physically moves the load. Brokers do not move loads themselves; carriers may also broker capacity they cannot cover directly. Haul Command lists both heavy haul broker and heavy haul carrier providers in Canada. Use the directory to compare options for your specific move.

Question 7

Superload Escort vs Standard Pilot Car — which do I need in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Superload escort handles loads exceeding standard oversize thresholds (varies by jurisdiction, often >16' wide or >150' long), requiring multiple vehicles, often police escort coordination, and certified operators. Standard pilot car handles routine oversize within the legal escort thresholds. Haul Command lists both superload escort and standard pilot car providers in Canada. Use the directory to compare options for your specific move.

Question 8

Heavy haul and oversize transport in Canada — how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Haul Command is the operating system for heavy haul and oversize/overweight transport in Canada. We track 26096 operators (including pilot car and escort providers), the governing permit authority, key corridors, and infrastructure constraints. Carriers and brokers can find providers, request coverage, get permit help, and access corridor intelligence for compliant oversize moves across Canada.

Question 9

Do I need a pilot car in Canada?

Accepted Answer

In Canada, pilot car (escort vehicle) requirements for oversize loads are determined by load width, height, length, weight, and route — and are set by the governing permit authority. As a general rule, loads exceeding standard legal dimensions trigger escort requirements. Haul Command currently lists 156 pilot and escort operators serving Canada; you can browse available operators or request coverage if your route is not yet covered.

Question 10

How do I get an oversize load permit in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Getting an oversize/overweight permit in Canada generally follows these steps: (1) Measure exact load dimensions and weight. (2) Plan and confirm the route. (3) Apply through the governing authority (Transport Canada). (4) Determine whether pilot cars or escorts are required for your dimensions. (5) Book qualified pilot car operators via Haul Command. (6) Carry the approved permit and meet all escort/signage conditions during transport. Exact thresholds and fees are set by the authority.

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