Special purpose cargo is the name given to cargo for the transportation of which it is necessary to comply with special conditions and obtain additional permits.
These include:
- oversized;
- dangerous;
- perishable;
- live cargo.
If the conditions of their delivery are not met, the cargo itself may become unusable, there will be a threat to other road users, and as a result of emergency situations, harm to human health and the environment may be caused.
Dangerous goods
The ability to harm nature, as well as the life and health of people, makes the transportation of these goods the most responsible process. These include explosive and flammable materials, flammable, radioactive and toxic substances, alkalis, acids and other chemicals. Special vehicles are used to transport them. Drivers carrying out this type of activity must have special permits. The route is designed to avoid large settlements, nature reserves and national parks.
Oversized and heavy cargo
They are classified as special for the reason that they can complicate traffic on highways, create obstacles, often require transport equipped with special devices, can cause an emergency on the roads, and lead to damage to the road surface. In some cases, such cargo requires special escort by a traffic police vehicle.
Perishable goods
This type does not pose a danger to other road users, but requires compliance with a certain temperature and humidity; such cargo must be transported without additional delays.
Live cargo
A special category that requires fast delivery, since the slightest delay can lead to the death of living beings or cause them to suffer from hunger, thirst, cold or heat. They must be protected from adverse conditions arising during transportation, and in the case of a long route, provided with food and water. Naturally, animals are transported only in vehicles designed for this purpose and subject to strict adherence to speed limits in order to avoid injury.
The classification of special purpose cargo also includes items the loss or damage of which would cause irreparable damage, since they have cultural value. These include antiques, works of art, historical relics, religious objects, etc. When transporting them, the most reliable containers are used to avoid the slightest damage, and transportation is carried out under security.
Special cargo can only be transported by organizations that have licenses, have vehicles designed for this purpose, and have drivers with the required qualifications on their staff. In addition, for each type of special cargo it is necessary to prepare the appropriate documentation, develop a route and obtain approval for its transportation.
