Resources & Guides
Straight answers on pilot car escorts, oversize load rules, and safety, written for carriers, brokers, and owner-operators. Start with the complete guide to pilot car services below.
Pilot Car & Oversize Load Guides
Practical, source-based guides for carriers, brokers and owner-operators. Rules vary by state, so always confirm against your permit.
What Is a Pilot Car, and What Is It Used For?
A pilot car, or escort vehicle, travels with an oversize load to scout the route, warn traffic and keep the driver informed. Here is how it works.
Read the guide →Why Are Pilot Cars Important for Oversize Loads?
Pilot cars support safe oversize moves through route awareness, communication, hazard awareness and coordination with the hauling team.
Read the guide →What Is the Difference Between Lead and Chase Pilot Cars?
A lead pilot car drives ahead of the load to spot hazards. A chase pilot car follows behind to watch traffic and the load. Here is how they work together.
Read the guide →What Does a High Pole Pilot Car Do?
A high pole pilot car leads a tall load with a height pole to check clearance under wires, signs and bridges. Learn how it is set and when it is used.
Read the guide →What Is a Steer or Steering Escort Vehicle?
'Steer' usually refers to the person steering a rear axle on a long trailer. Learn how it differs from a pilot car and why the rules vary by state.
Read the guide →When Is a Pilot Car Required for an Oversize Load?
There is no single national rule. Whether a pilot car is required depends on your load's size, the route and the permit for each state.
Read the guide →How Do Pilot Cars Help With Route Planning and Road Safety?
How pilot cars support route planning before an oversize move and road safety during it, plus what carriers should send their escort company.
Read the guide →What Should You Look for When Hiring a Pilot Car Company?
A practical checklist for hiring a pilot car company, including experience, credentials, insurance, coverage, communication and what affects pricing.
Read the guide →Pilot Car Requirements, Certification and Insurance by State
Pilot car rules differ by state. Learn how certification, reciprocity and insurance vary and how to check current requirements before a trip.
Read the guide →Pilot Car and Oversize Load Questions, Answered
Answers to common questions about pilot cars: what they are, when you need one, equipment, pricing, booking, coverage, insurance and cancellations.
Read the guide →Talk to Dispatch Directly
Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out to dispatch and we'll help with anything the guides haven't covered yet.