Abnormal loads
What is an abnormal load?
An abnormal load is a vehicle that has any of the following:
- weighs more than 44,000 kilograms
- has an axle load over 10,000 kilograms for a non-driving axle or 11,500 kilograms for a driving axle
- is wider than 2.90 metres
- is longer than 18.65 metres
You can check the weight of your vehicle at one of the public weighbridges in East Sussex.
Transporting an abnormal load
Hauliers must tell East Sussex County Council when they want to transport an abnormal load across the county. They can tell us and other organisations by using the online system Electronic Service Delivery for Abnormal Loads (ESDAL).
Hauliers can use ESDAL to:
- plot the route they need to take
- check how suitable the route is for their vehicle
- get details of all the organisations they need to notify
- submit their notifications
ESDAL is online and does not need specialist software. Sign up and register on the website:
You can email notifications straight to East Sussex Highways at Highways Network Management Team.
The minimum notification period is 2 clear working days (not including the date of notification or the proposed movement date).
Hauliers must insure the county against any damage their vehicle may cause to any road, bridge or other structure. A valid indemnity covering the movement period should accompany the notification. Sussex Police must also be notified where appropriate.
Police escorts
For information about police escorts, contact the Surrey and Sussex Police Abnormal Load Office at 01273 404 187.
Costs
There is no charge for processing notifications. Fees may apply if:
- bridge assessments are needed
- street furniture (like bollards or signs) must be removed and replaced
Further information
Refer to the Road Vehicles (Authorisations of Special Types) (General) Order 2003 for more information, or email Highways Network Management Team.
