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A Deep Dive into Heavy Haul Trucking, Open Deck Freight, and Specialized Logistics Across Western Canada and North America

Heavy hauling is more than just moving big equipment, it’s a specialized sector of trucking and logistics that demands precision, power, and planning. Whether it’s transporting a 100,000 lb transformer through Alberta’s backroads or moving oversized mining equipment across the U.S. border, heavy haul freight is a critical pillar of infrastructure, manufacturing, and construction across Western Canada and North America.

But what exactly qualifies as “heavy haul”? And what goes into ensuring that kind of freight arrives safely and on time?

Let’s break it down.

What Is Heavy Haul Trucking?

Heavy haul trucking refers to the transportation of oversize or overweight freight that exceeds standard legal limits. These loads often require specialized trailers, permits, escort vehicles, and routing strategies.

Legal Weight and Size Thresholds:

• Weight: 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight (varies slightly by province/state)
• Width: More than 8.5 feet (102 inches)
• Height: More than 13.5 feet
• Length: Over 53 feet for trailers (varies with configurations)

These thresholds can vary by province, territory, or state — so working with a logistics provider who knows the regional rules is essential.

Common Industries That Require Heavy Haul Services

Heavy haul trucking plays a foundational role in industries that rely on the movement of massive, mission-critical freight.

Key Sectors Served:

• Construction & Infrastructure: Cranes, excavators, concrete forms, and bridge beams.
• Mining: Oversized drills, haul trucks, crushers, and processing modules.
• Energy & Utilities: Wind turbine components, transformers, substations, and oil & gas skids.
• Manufacturing: Industrial press systems, generators, and CNC machinery.
• Agriculture: Grain bins, combines, and oversized implements.

If it can’t fit in a dry van or if it weighs more than 50 tons you’re likely in heavy haul territory.

It’s Not Just the Truck, It’s the Planning

Transporting an oversized load isn’t as simple as strapping it to a flatbed. It takes smart logistics planning and execution from a team who knows how to make it happen.

Heavy Haul Freight Planning Includes:

• Route Surveys: Identifying bridge heights, weight restrictions, and tight corners.
• Permitting: Securing oversize/overweight permits across multiple jurisdictions.
• Pilot Car Coordination: Escort vehicles to ensure safe passage.
• Load Engineering: Ensuring proper balance, securement, and support.
• Traffic Timing: Some loads can only move during specific hours or days.

This is where Bowline Logistics thrives, offering turnkey freight solutions with specialized support across Canada and North America.

Open Deck Equipment Built for the Job

The right trailer makes all the difference when it comes to heavy haul freight. Open deck equipment allows for top-load, side-load, and crane-load capability, and can be customized for load dimensions.

Types of Open Deck Trailers Used in Heavy Haul Trucking:

• Flatbeds: Versatile, up to 48–53 feet long. Ideal for lumber, steel, or lighter oversized freight.
• Step Decks: Lower deck height for taller loads, common in equipment transport.
• Double Drops / Lowboys: Ultra-low clearance for tall and heavy machinery.
• Extendable Trailers: Ideal for long components like beams or wind turbine blades.
• Multi-Axle RGN (Removable Gooseneck): Heavy-duty builds to haul up to 150,000 lbs.
• Trombone Trailers: Extendable for modular buildings or oversized pipes.

Every Bowline truck and trailer is meticulously maintained and selected for the job at hand and every route is mapped with the equipment’s dimensions and turning radii in mind.

Heavy Haul in Western Canada and North America

Western Canada is a hotbed for heavy haul freight with sprawling infrastructure projects, energy developments, and remote-access mining operations.

Provinces Where Heavy Haul Is Critical:

• Alberta: Oilfield skids, transformers, oversized tanks.
• Saskatchewan: Mining drills, combines, fertilizer spreaders.
• British Columbia: Hydroelectric components, forestry machinery.
• Manitoba: Grain bins, utility modules, structural steel.

And it doesn’t stop at the border.

Bowline Logistics operates across North America, coordinating cross-border heavy haul freight between Canada and the U.S., making sure your shipment clears customs and crosses state lines without a hitch.

Cross-Border Heavy Haul with Bowline:

• Licensed bonded carrier
• Customs clearance management
• Northbound and southbound freight
• U.S. routing, permitting, and compliance support
• Real-time tracking and communication

Whether you’re shipping a turbine from B.C. to Texas or a grain processor from Saskatchewan to Ohio, we’ll get it there, guaranteed.

Why Heavy Haul Freight Requires a Trusted Carrier

In the logistics industry, reliability isn’t a buzzword, it’s everything.

Heavy haul jobs are high-risk and high-stakes. A single permit error, a wrong turn, or poor securement can cost companies millions in delays, damages, or fines.

That’s why shippers across Western Canada and North America choose Bowline Logistics when reliability matters most.

How Bowline Makes Heavy Haul Freight Happen

At Bowline Logistics, we take pride in moving the big stuff and doing it with precision and care. Our team handles every detail from start to finish.

Bowline Logistics Heavy Haul Capabilities:

• Project Planning: End-to-end support for complex, multi-load jobs.
• Fleet Diversity: Access to flatbeds, step decks, RGNs, and extendables.
• On-Site Support: Supervisors available for loading and securement.
• Bonded & Insured: Cross-border expertise, full compliance, peace of mind.
• Yard Facilities: Staging and transloading available in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

What Types of Loads Count as Heavy Haul?

Let’s get specific. Here’s a snapshot of the types of cargo that typically qualify as heavy haul trucking freight.

Examples of Heavy Haul Loads:

• Excavators and bulldozers
• Wind turbine nacelles and blades
• Electrical transformers
• Industrial boilers
• Modular offices and prefab buildings
• Hydraulic presses
• 10’ wide steel tanks
• Agricultural sprayers and grain carts
• Mining shovels and haul truck beds

If your load needs special routing, extra axles, or an escort car, it’s a heavy haul.

Open Deck vs Enclosed: Why Open Deck Rules in Heavy Haul

In standard freight, enclosed trailers dominate. But when it comes to oversize and overweight loads, open deck trailers are the only way forward.

Benefits of Open Deck Freight in Heavy Haul Logistics:

• Flexible Loading: Cranes or forklifts can load from the top or side.
• Size Accommodation: Oversized width or height isn’t restricted by walls or roofs.
• Modular Load Setup: Combine equipment, components, or crates into one haul.
• Securement Options: Multiple tie-down points for safety.

Bowline’s open deck logistics fleet is tailored for versatility and safety with experienced drivers who understand securement strategies for high-risk loads.

Permits, Paperwork, and Planning: What You Need To Heavy Haul

One of the most misunderstood parts of heavy haul is the paperwork. Moving a 70-ton excavator from Saskatchewan to North Dakota isn’t just a matter of horsepower. It’s about compliance.

What’s Required for a Heavy Haul Move?

• Oversize/Overweight permits (per province/state)
• Customs documentation for cross-border hauls
• Pilot car scheduling and compliance
• Route mapping and bridge analysis
• Equipment inspections and pre-trip certifications

Bowline’s in-house logistics team takes care of all of it, so you don’t have to.

When to Call in the Heavy Haul Experts

Not every load is a heavy haul. But when it is, you’ll know. Here are the signs you need a heavy haul logistics provider:

• The load won’t fit in a standard trailer
• You’re dealing with construction, mining, or energy infrastructure
• Permits or escorts are required
• Your freight exceeds 50,000–80,000 lbs
• You’re unsure how to route the load safely

Heavy haul trucking is essential to progress. It builds our cities, powers our homes, feeds our economies, and keeps projects moving forward.

At Bowline Logistics, we’re proud to be a trusted name in heavy haul and open deck freight across Western Canada and North America. With the right equipment, experienced drivers, and a commitment to logistics excellence — we’ll move anything.

Looking to move a heavy haul load?

Reach out to Bowline Logistics today and discover what reliability really looks like.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michelle Green – Project Sales & Business Development

Michelle is known for her deep industry knowledge, customer-first approach, and creative problem-solving in complex logistics environments. With a background in fluid power technology and commercial diving, Michelle brings a hands-on mindset and technical edge to every project. Whether coordinating time-sensitive freight or supporting large-scale industrial moves, she plays a vital role in building trust with clients and driving growth across North America.

Spruce Grove, AB (May 30, 2025) – Bowline Logistics Ltd. is proud to announce the appointment of Delly McEwan as Chief Executive Officer, effective June 2, 2025. A seasoned executive and logistics strategist, McEwan brings over 25 years of experience in transportation, business development, and project execution across North America.

Bowline welcomes McEwan, following an impressive career that includes founding NexGen Transportation and serving as its President for 13 years, serving as a Managing Director in the wind construction industry, and leading a large First Nations Development Corporation as its CEO. His corporate journey also includes senior roles with Kuehne + Nagel, Bechtel, Bantrel, and Air Liquide Global Energy Solutions. Beyond the boardroom, Delly also serves as the Board Chair of Little Warriors, a national charity committed to the awareness, prevention, and treatment of child sex abuse and sits on the Parkland County Economic Diversification Committee.

 Having had the opportunity to learn from many of the best in the industry—while also successfully founding and building a transportation company—McEwan brings a unique perspective to Bowline’s dynamic and growing team. His executive leadership across diverse industries such as renewable energy, specialized crane and rigging, construction, and corporate development, positions him well to help guide Bowline through the next phase of growth. His fresh outlook is a welcome addition as Bowline continues to evolve its service offerings and reinforce its long-term path toward sustainability and operational excellence.

“I was drawn to Bowline because it’s a company with a strong, people-first culture,” McEwan shared. “I believe in leadership that empowers those on the front lines. The individuals doing the work every day are the most valuable asset of any successful organization—and I saw a kindred spirit in Bowline’s approach. I’m excited to be part of a team that values every voice and puts service excellence at the heart of everything we do.”

McEwan’s leadership style is collaborative, analytical, and deeply team-focused. His strategic vision will help guide Bowline through its next phase of innovation in the transportation and logistics sector, with a particular eye toward building a comprehensive, asset-based logistics solution for the North American market. He is especially looking forward to sharing his broad experience in all aspects of transportation and executive management while integrating into Bowline’s best-in-class culture.

“Delly brings a wealth of knowledge, integrity, and forward-thinking leadership to our organization,” said Tyler Boyd, Founder and President of Bowline Logistics. “His experience and passion for building teams align perfectly with the direction we’re headed. I look forward to working alongside him as we continue expand Bowline’s presence across borders and into new markets.”

McEwan resides in Spruce Grove, Alberta, with his two daughters, aged 9 and 13. He holds a Project Management Certificate from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) and remains actively involved in both industry and community initiatives.

As Bowline continues to expand its reach and services across North America, the addition of Delly McEwan to the leadership team marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey—anchored in collaboration, operational excellence, and a commitment to serving both its clients and its people.

About Bowline Logistics Ltd.
Bowline Logistics is a Canadian-owned transportation company specializing in open-deck, heavy haul, and project cargo solutions across North America. From multi-axle RGNs and extendables to step-decks and ramp-equipped trailers, our fleet is built to handle complex freight requirements with precision and flexibility. We serve a wide range of industries—including energy, construction, mining, and modular manufacturing—delivering tailored logistics solutions that go beyond the standard.

At Bowline, we believe logistics is still a people business. Our team-first culture is rooted in accountability, collaboration, and a deep respect for the individuals doing the work—whether behind the wheel, in the office, or at the job site. With a focus on long-term relationships and service-driven results, Bowline is redefining what it means to deliver in today’s logistics industry.

Media Contact:
Michelle Green
Project Sales & Business Development
Bowline Logistics Ltd.
mgreen@bowlinelogistics.com
www.bowlinelogistics.com

In a world where transportation can feel impersonal and transactional, Bowline Logistics is rewriting the rulebook. As a trusted trucking company based in Canada, Bowline does more than move freight, they build lasting partnerships that drive value far beyond the delivery point. With deep roots across North America and a reputation for reliable transportation, Bowline is the go-to choice for businesses that want more from their transportation services.

Their tagline says it all: “When reliability matters most.” And for Bowline, that’s not just a slogan—it’s a promise.

Long-Term Transportation Relationships Across Canada and the USA

In an industry where speed often overshadows service, Bowline Logistics puts people first. Rather than chasing one-time transactions, they focus on building long-term relationships with clients across Canada and North America. From major cities like Edmonton, Calgary, and Vancouver to remote delivery points, Bowline’s success stems from being a trusted partner—not just a vendor.

Clients know they can count on Bowline not just once, but every time. Their team takes the time to understand your business, anticipate challenges, and offer customized logistics solutions that grow with your goals.

Trusted Transportation Services Backed by a Dedicated Team

Bowline’s strength lies in the expertise and dedication of its people. With years of experience in the transportation industry, their dedicated team ensures each load is planned, tracked, and delivered with care. They don’t just meet expectations—they exceed them.

That trust is reinforced by Bowline’s industry-leading certifications, robust safety standards, and dependable service record. Bowline ensures every job of oversized freight meets the highest standards of safely, efficiency, and reliability.

Trucking Solutions for FTL, LTL, and Long-Haul Freight

Whether you’re shipping full truckloads (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), or need long-haul capacity across provinces or international borders, Bowline has the fleet and expertise to deliver. Their modern trucks are maintained to the highest standards, and their route planning ensures optimal transit times and minimized risk.

As businesses navigate shifting markets and rising transportation costs, Bowline offers cost-effective options that don’t cut corners on quality. Their focus is on delivering value—both in pricing and performance—to meet your current and future transportation needs.

Cross-Border and North American Freight Transportation

Shipping goods across the U.S.–Canada border can be a challenge, but not with Bowline. Their cross-border expertise ensures documentation, compliance, and timing are all handled seamlessly. Businesses operating across North America trust Bowline for dependable cross-border service that eliminates delays and surprises.

Bowline’s expansive network of carriers and support staff ensures that your goods get where they need to go, whether that’s a warehouse in Ontario or a distributor in California. When shipping solutions require both reach and regulation, Bowline’s got you covered.

Transportation Solutions to Meet Every Shipping Need

Bowline’s full-service model provides scalable transportation solutions to support every leg of your supply chain. Whether you need shipping services, warehousing, or third-party logistics, Bowline has the experience and infrastructure to handle it.

Here’s what Bowline offers:

• FTL and LTL freight shipping
• Cross-country and cross-border deliveries
• Local and long-haul trucking across Canada
• Intermodal freight coordination
• Strategic freight shipping and specialized equipment transport
• Inventory staging, warehousing, and real-time tracking

Every solution is built with performance and partnership in mind.

Supply Chain Expertise

A reliable transport company doesn’t just move goods, it strengthens your entire supply chain. Bowline understands how transportation decisions affect warehousing, retail, and end-customer experience. That’s why they provide actionable insights, proactive updates, and smart planning that reduce friction and improve outcomes.

Their tools offer strong functionality, giving customers shipment visibility, real-time ETAs, and responsive support, all working together to provide complete logistics solutions that perform under pressure.

Scalable Freight Solutions

Bowline serves businesses of every size, from small startups to national distributors. As a Canadian-based logistics company, they’re uniquely positioned to help businesses scale across the country—and into North America—with smart, efficient, and cost-effective freight solutions.

Whether you’re launching a new product or expanding your market reach, Bowline adapts with you. No guesswork. No growing pains. Just flexible transportation services and a partner you can trust to understand your company name and brand goals.

Driving Customer Satisfaction and Repeat Business

Bowline has earned a reputation for on-time delivery, transparent pricing, and unwavering reliability. Their commitment to customer satisfaction shows in their retention, many of their clients have been with them for years.

Because Bowline isn’t just fulfilling your shipping needs, they’re helping you deliver on promises to your own customers. That level of responsibility requires more than just trucks and drivers. It demands consistency, communication, and a company culture built on reliability.

When Reliability Matters Most, Businesses Choose Bowline Logistics

The transportation industry is crowded, but Bowline stands out because they show up. They deliver. They adapt. And they care.

When you choose Bowline Logistics, you’re choosing a trusted, reliable trucking company that’s as invested in your business as you are. Whether you need cross-border support, long-haul coverage, or flexible logistics services, Bowline delivers the partnership, performance, and peace of mind to keep you moving forward.

So if you’re looking for a dependable transport company with real reach, real relationships, and real results, you’re in the right place.

Bowline Logistics. When reliability matters most.

About the Author

Tyler Boyd – President

Tyler Boyd is the President of Bowline Logistics Ltd., bringing over 15 years of hands-on experience in transportation, project logistics, and heavy haul coordination. Known for his operational leadership and commitment to service, Tyler grew up in the industry and now leads a fast-growing logistics company serving Western Canada and beyond.

When you meet Tyler Boyd, President of Bowline Logistics, it’s easy to see the success: nearly 80 employees, 40+ trucks across North America, and a company known for reliability when it matters most. But what you don’t see is the storm he drove through to get here.

In a recent interview on the Business is fcking hard podcast, Tyler opened up about the lowest chapter of his entrepreneurial journey—and how he turned it into the foundation for everything Bowline stands for today.

“Bad things happen to good people. That’s one thing I learned. And I learned that the hard way.” – Tyler Boyd

The Day the Bank Pulled the Plug

Tyler’s journey didn’t start with Bowline—it began at age 12 with an agricultural business. By his 20s, he was running a thriving excavation company with over 100 employees. Then one email changed everything.

With less than an hour’s notice, his bank shut down his line of credit. Payroll was due. Bills were mounting. And the phones weren’t ringing.

Instead of folding, Tyler fought back. He let people go. Faced angry suppliers. Received public judgment. But most of all, he endured. The result? Not only did Bowline take shape during that time—Boyd Excavating, the business that started it all, continues to operate to this day. With a fleet of 40 trucks running alongside Bowline’s logistics operations, it stands as a testament to Tyler’s grit, loyalty, and refusal to let hard times define the outcome.

Rebuilding From Nothing

With no credit and very few resources, Tyler launched Bowline Logistics from scratch. He leaned into relationships and those who still believed in him, especially his family and wife, Amanda.

“My family’s day doesn’t start until Tyler comes home. That’s our whole purpose of the day—just to wait for him to come home.” – Amanda Boyd

That quote reflects a shift not just in priorities, but in philosophy. And so Tyler set forth to build that trust again, mile by mile. Today, Bowline is built on people. Trust, loyalty, and community are at the core of every haul, every hire, and every handshake.

The Lessons That Drive Him

1. Failure is Just a Chapter – Tyler’s story proves that rock bottom isn’t the end of the road—it’s a detour, sometimes the one that leads you to something better.

2. Business Is About People, Not Just Profit – From supportive competitors to unwavering family, relationships paved Tyler’s comeback. And they continue to steer Bowline’s direction.

Watch the Full Interview

Tyler shares more about the emotional weight of failure, the responsibility of leadership, and how he mentors entrepreneurs who feel like they’ve hit a wall.

Here’s a clip of Tyler’s story:

Watch the full interview here:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michelle Green – Project Sales & Business Development

Michelle is known for her deep industry knowledge, customer-first approach, and creative problem-solving in complex logistics environments. With a background in fluid power technology and commercial diving, Michelle brings a hands-on mindset and technical edge to every project. Whether coordinating time-sensitive freight or supporting large-scale industrial moves, she plays a vital role in building trust with clients and driving growth across North America.