Did you know there is a transport law in Queensland around carrying loads that project out the front, side or back of your car, ute or truck? Failing to adhere to the law effectively makes your vehicle a danger hazard, not only for you but other road users too. Keep reading to find out more about the legal limits for long and wide loads.

Dimensions

You need to consider the total dimensions of the vehicle and the load when calculating measurements. This means including the length and width of the vehicle and the trailer (if any) as well as the length and width of the load. The following legal dimensions are calculated so as to ensure safety when passing under overhead bridges, power lines and for safe turning. If your vehicle or trailer is already at the maximum limit, then you can’t carry any additional load.

• Total width – no more than 2.5 metres
• Total height – no more than 4.3 metres
• Total length – no more than 12.5 metres
• Projection from side – no more than 150 millimetres
• Projection from front – no more than 1.2 metres in front of headlights
• Projection from back – no more than 1.2 metres without a flag.
• Prime mover semi-trailers & truck + trailers – total length no more than 19 metres, and rear overhang no more than 3.7 metres.

Note: For measuring the dimensions of loads projecting from the side of a vehicle, don’t measure from mudguards, rear vision mirrors or reflectors, but from the edge of the vehicle or trailer body.

Warning devices for back of the vehicle

If your load is clearly visible and projects up to 1.2 metres from the back of the vehicle, then you do not need a warning device. For any load over this length you will need to attach one of the following securely to the very back of the load:

During the day – a bright red and yellow, or yellow flag measuring 450 mm by 450 mm

During the night – a red warning light that can be seen up to 200 metres away, or two red reflectors able to reflect the headlights of the vehicle behind.

Further load safety tips

• Loads must be within legal safety limits even for short trips
• Make sure exterior loads are securely fastened
• Interior loads that project out the window should not compromise passenger safety when braking, accelerating and turning
• If dimensions exceed legal limits or are unsafe, use a larger vehicle or a professional moving company
• If in doubt, don’t carry the load.