Cargo transportation in California: the main restrictions

Restrictions of delivery in California are different from those in other states. So companies and organizations that want to export goods from California or import them to this state must know the norms, restrictions, and rules. According to marine and truck delivery, California is one of the most active states. Thanks to the roadway network and big ports thousands of tons of cargo pass through the state every year. California seems to be a progressive state. The laws concerning working hours and emissions can make cargo delivery more complicated. 

Statistics of cargo delivery. Speaking about cargo processing and goods delivery, California is one of the busiest states. Local roads are usually loaded with trucks of partial truckload carriers that deliver goods inside the state and between states. Official statistics show that the cost of goods that pass through the state during the year is more than $1,4 million. As for the weight, it is more than 718 tons during the year. California accounts for more than 10% of the American goods turnover. Usually, the goods departed from the state are delivered to other ones. The most popular directions are New York, Texas, and Washington. 

The most common goods that are transported inside the state are the following:

  • Petrol and aviation fuel;
  • Meal products;
  • Electronic equipment;
  • Vehicles and automobile parts;
  • Pharmaceuticals;
  • Gravel.

Restrictions for the trucks

Cargo carriers that work in California must know the specifications of the trucks and rules that regulate the size and weight of the vehicle. There are legal rules for the goods, and cargo carriers must follow them for safe transfer. So the truck should not be:

  • Longer than 65 ft;
  • Higher than 14 ft;
  • Wider than 102 ft.

There are weight restrictions that are relevant for California. The maximum weight that is allowed is 80 000 lb. The maximum weight of the one wheel is 10 500 lb. If a vehicle delivers very heavy cargo, the representatives of the company must ask for special permission. Some districts have their limitations, too. For example, heavy goods can be transferred in a certain period to avoid massive traffic. 

Ecological restrictions

The USA is one of the countries that produce carbon emissions. At the same time, California is a state that tries to use eco-friendly vehicles. Some rules and laws were issued to decrease emissions. CARB instructions are legal and they must be followed. New rules were issued to increase the chances of achieving ecological goals. According to the rules, vehicles that deliver heavy freight must decrease emissions. In research, CARB shows that diesel emissions cause cancer. Local authorities have started to register only those vehicles that meet all requirements since 2020.

Local ecological companies focus their attention on decreasing dangerous emissions. It will improve the air quality, decrease the risk of cancer, and protect people’s health. It is especially common for people who live in poor districts of the state.