Hauling wrecked/salvaged autos

10-4! No argument here. Just trying to clarify so there is less confusion.

The definition of Auto Transport has nothing to do with it being a stinger-steer. Nor does having a solid floor or an enclosed trailer knock you out of the definition.

The point I am trying to make is that to meet the definition and get the special length limits the vehicle must be "designed and used specifically for the transport of assembled highway vehicles".

It is easy to see roadside if the vehicle was designed to transport vehicles. Even the enclosed jobs that haul Beemers have tiedowns for cars, ramps for an upper deck of cars, etc. Having a bottom and sides does not throw you out of the definition.

By the same token, a Transcraft flatbed trailer does not become an Auto Transport just because you have a Yugo strapped on top. Hooking your dually to a gooseneck flatbed and throwing a couple of cars on top does not make you an "Automobile Transporter Vehicle".

 

23 CFR 658 sets the Federal minimum standards for size and weight on the Interstate highway system. 658.13 addresses length limits. 658 is set up so that "No State shall impose an overall length limitation of less than"...

This sets forth the Federal minimums. States can allow longer lengths, but can not impose length limits shorter than these.

Some States allow 75 ft plus overhangs for either type of mount. Some states differentiate between the mounts, like 658.13 does. You will have to check with the States you wish to haul in.