Heavy-lift shipping in the UAE is a sector where the enormity of cargo dictates an equally substantial comprehension of legal frameworks.
The United Arab Emirates imposes a sophisticated set of rules that govern the transit of oversized loads through its ports and across its logistics networks.
For businesses and individuals ready to move big items, here's a quick rundown of the regulations and compliance requirements for bringing in large project cargo to the UAE.
Specific Regulations for Heavy-Lift Shipping in the UAE
✅Every oversized cargo is precisely framed by its dimensions and weight. Any shipment that exceeds the standard dimensions of a 40-foot shipping container (which are approximately 12.2 meters in length, 2.6 meters in width, and 4.2 meters in height) is generally classified as oversized. For weight, as of 2024, the maximum permissible weight was adjusted to be 65 tons instead of 2021’s limit of 45 tons.
✅Regarding road limitations, the standard maximum width allowed is 2.6 meters. The new height limit is set at 5 meters. Any cargo exceeding these parameters requires prior approval from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or corresponding local entities in other emirates.
✅For transportation using a skeletal chassis, the combined weight of the cargo, container, tractor, and chassis must not exceed 45 tons; the limit, however, increases for a platform chassis.
✅Regardless of the chassis type used, the weight of the cargo must not surpass the container's maximum payload capacity. Similarly, transporting two 20-foot containers on a single chassis is permissible, provided that the total weight adheres to the aforementioned restrictions.
✅In the terminals, the gantry cranes have a maximum lifting capacity of 40 metric tons (MT). Specific cargo operation capacities at the UAE's port terminals differ based on each port’s regulations.
✅Heavy vehicles are restricted from entering during rush hours (06:30 a.m. to 09:00 a.m. and 03:00 p.m. to 06:00 p.m.). Violations of these regulations result in fines and penalties. Overloading leads to a fine of AED 500 and 6 black points, with possible vehicle confiscation for 7 days. Violating no-entry timings incurs a fine of AED 1,000 and 4 black points.
✅These parameters are essential in classifying cargo, as they determine the type of permits and handling that will be required. Regulations are tailored accordingly to manage the risks associated with moving OOG and heavy-lift cargo.
✅Obtaining permits for heavy-lift shipping in the UAE is handled by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or corresponding local entities in other emirates. The required permits are not limited to transport but may also include approvals for the use of cranes and other lifting equipment at ports or for the journey. This means, for some cargo, that approvals might be required from various authorities, including traffic, police, and port officials.
✅All companies and governmental entities wishing to transport oversized or special loads within the UAE can apply for the necessary permits through the RTA’s website. The application must be accompanied by a photograph of the cargo. Fees for the permits are structured according to the size and type of load: AED 20 per vehicle for large-sized loads; and AED 200 per vehicle for special loads, which are identified by a weight exceeding 60 tons with a height over 4 meters. An additional fee of AED 20 is charged for knowledge and innovation. The entire process comes with a turnaround time of 3 working days to obtain the necessary approvals.
Moving Heavy-lift Cargo With Vervo Middle East
Vervo Middle East has extensive experience and capabilities for handling heavy-lift and oversized cargo shipments in the UAE with comprehensive risk management.
Access a modern fleet of specialized equipment for heavy haulage, such as hydraulic modular trailers, lowboy trailers, Schnabel cars, and self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs), while ensuring safe transportation that complies with all regulations.
Whether you plan to move large machinery, turbines, transformers, boats, or other overweight or oversized cargo, our team in the UAE provides your load the ideal platform and identifies the optimal routes for intact and on-time delivery in the UAE and beyond.
Permit applications are also a key part of the process when moving special cargo. Vervo Middle East handles all the necessary approvals and paperwork for every load. Our well-established relationships with major UAE ports provide us with inside knowledge on working within their parameters for heavy lifts.
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