(757) 494-9200

Century Express
7 Proven Strategies to Stay Profitable in Trucking—No Matter the Market

7 Proven Strategies to Stay Profitable in Trucking—No Matter the Market

Why Beef Prices Are Rising

Previous

Moving Overweight Freight From Virginia

Next

7 Proven Strategies to Stay Profitable in Trucking—No Matter the Market

Grocery Shopping

In the trucking industry, ups and downs are part of the journey. Freight rates rise and fall. Fuel prices spike and dip. But for seasoned owner-operators, profitability isn’t about waiting for the next boom—it’s about mastering the fundamentals. 

At Century Express Virginia, located in Norfolk and Portsmouth, we know firsthand how turbulent markets can test a company’s resilience. As a trusted partner in drayage, storage, and transloading servicing the Port of Virginia, we see how discipline and foresight keep operations not just afloat but thriving. Here are seven powerful ways independent operators and logistics professionals can protect their bottom line in any market. 

1. Know Your Cost Per Mile (CPM)

It all starts here. If you don’t know your operating costs per mile—including truck payments, insurance, fuel, maintenance, and more—you’re flying blind. When you know your CPM, you can evaluate every load with confidence, knowing exactly what you need to charge to make a profit. Even in a tight market, understanding your numbers can open up opportunities you may have otherwise passed up. 

2. Focus on Cost Control, Not Just High Revenue

Chasing the biggest-paying loads can be tempting. But smart operators understand that controlling expenses often yields better results than waiting on windfall rates. Prioritize operational efficiency over risky gambles. Cutting costs, maintaining your truck proactively, and sticking to routes that optimize fuel, and time can make even mid-tier freight profitable. 

3. Fuel Efficiency is King

Fuel is your single largest ongoing cost. Driving habits, truck aerodynamics, and speed all play a role in fuel efficiency. Slowing down even 5 mph can significantly boost miles per gallon. Consider route optimization tools, regular tire checks, and lightening unnecessary load weight. Every gallon you save adds directly to your profit margin. 

4. Maximize Fuel Discounts and Planning

Beyond how much fuel you use is how much you pay for it. Partner with networks or use tools that offer discounted rates at fuel stops across the country. Planning your stops based on price data can lead to huge annual savings. A dollar off per gallon makes a meaningful difference when you’re filling up several times a week. 

5. Avoid Excessive Debt and High Truck Payments

A shiny new rig might look appealing, but the payment plan might not. Operators who remain profitable during downturns often do so because they own their equipment outright or have minimal monthly payments. Used, reliable trucks that are well-maintained can be the key to lower CPM and increased flexibility when rates are low. 

6. Think Like a Business Owner

Driving is just one part of the job—running a business is the rest. That means budgeting, setting aside savings for repairs or taxes, and planning for slow periods. The most successful operators aren’t necessarily the busiest, but the most prepared. Set up systems for financial tracking, and don’t be afraid to consult a mentor or financial advisor. 

7. Diversify Your Opportunities

Market shifts are easier to weather when you’re not tied to a single freight type or lane. Having access to different shippers, brokers, or load boards increases your adaptability. Look for opportunities to expand into flatbed, refrigerated, or port freight. At Century Express Virginia, we help clients tap into the opportunities surrounding the Port of Virginia with flexible services and trusted support. 

Adaptability is the Anchor 

At Century Express Virginia, we’ve seen that the companies who remain profitable through every cycle are those who stay informed, disciplined, and focused. Whether you’re an owner-operator running solo or a growing fleet servicing port logistics, the same principles apply: know your costs, minimize waste, and make decisions with a long-term mindset. 

With over 15 years serving the Port of Virginia community, our team offers support seven days a week, managing cargo with precision and care. Whether you’re seeking help with drayage, storage, or transloading, we’re ready to work for you. 

The market will always change. But with the right approach, your business doesn’t have to suffer. Let Century Express Virginia help you navigate the road ahead. 

 

Why Beef Prices Are Rising — And How It Affects More Than Just Your Grocery Bill

Why Beef Prices Are Rising — And How It Affects More Than Just Your Grocery Bill

Safety First: How Century Express Virginia Mitigates

Previous

7 Proven Strategies to Stay Profitable

Next

Why Beef Prices Are Rising — And How It Affects More Than Just Your Grocery Bill

Grocery Shopping

If you’ve noticed your favorite steak dinner or lunchtime burger costing more lately, you’re not imagining things. Across the U.S., beef prices have hit record highs—and the effects are being felt from grocery stores and restaurants to the freight and logistics companies that help move goods across the country. 

At Century Express Virginia, based in Norfolk and Portsmouth, we understand that shifts in the agricultural and supply chain landscape impact every link in the logistics chain. As a premier trucking and drayage provider operating near the Port of Virginia, we keep a close eye on these trends so we can help our clients navigate them with agility and foresight. 

So what exactly is driving the current surge in beef prices—and what does it mean for businesses, consumers, and logistics companies alike? 

A Shrinking Cattle Supply 

 The U.S. beef cattle inventory has dropped to its lowest levels since 1952, according to the Department of Agriculture. As of early 2025, the beef cattle population stands at just 27.9 million—a 13% decrease since 2019. Despite this, consumer demand for beef has remained steady. 

This mismatch between supply and demand has driven average beef prices to all-time highs. In May 2025, ground beef reached $5.98 per pound—a 16.2% increase from just a year earlier. Cuts like sirloin and chuck roast have followed suit. 

 The Long Tail of a Decade of Struggles 

The reasons for the supply squeeze stretch back years. In 2014, ranchers saw strong profits and expanded their herds. But increased supply led to falling prices, and then drought conditions hit the western U.S. hard. Less grass for grazing meant higher feed costs, forcing ranchers to scale back. 

Many of these ranchers are small business owners. The average beef herd in the U.S. contains just 47 cattle, and only around 10% of operations have 100 or more. With limited capital reserves, many small ranchers simply couldn’t weather the combination of rising costs and reduced revenue. 

The COVID-19 pandemic only made things worse. Meatpacking plant closures and labor shortages disrupted processing and reduced demand from processors, depressing cattle prices further. 

Slow Recovery, Ongoing Pressure 

Now that cattle prices are rebounding, ranchers are beginning to rebuild their herds. But it takes two to three years to raise a calf to slaughter. That means the current shortage won’t be resolved overnight, and elevated beef prices are likely to persist into 2026 and beyond. 

Large corporations have responded in varied ways. Some—like Walmart and Costco—are investing in their own meat processing facilities to control more of the supply chain. Others, including McDonald’s and Sysco, have taken legal action against large meat processors, alleging price manipulation. Some lawsuits have already resulted in multimillion-dollar settlements. 

What It Means for Freight and Logistics 

At Century Express Virginia, we see firsthand how these shifts in the food industry ripple through supply chains. As beef prices climb, retailers and distributors adjust their strategies—bundling products, consolidating shipments, or changing sourcing altogether. 

Food service companies may require more flexible storage or transloading solutions to handle variable order sizes. Restaurants and grocery chains are rethinking their inventory models. These evolving needs put pressure on logistics providers to stay adaptable, responsive, and cost-efficient. 

Because we operate seven days a week and are deeply embedded in the Port of Virginia ecosystem, we help our clients meet those challenges head-on. Whether it’s ensuring timely drayage of refrigerated containers or offering secure short-term storage for bulk meat shipments, we deliver inventive, on-the-ground solutions tailored to shifting market realities. 

Adapting at Every Level 

From major grocers to small meat retailers, businesses across the food industry are adjusting how they manage, sell, and source beef products. Whether it’s reducing portion sizes, bundling product offers, or offering discounts on bulk orders, companies are finding creative ways to support customers while maintaining margins. 

These grassroots adjustments show how deeply intertwined agricultural, economic, and logistical systems have become. Every change at the ranching level influences processing, distribution, and ultimately how logistics providers like Century Express Virginia deliver value. 

Moving Forward: Navigating with Insight 

There is no quick fix for the beef supply chain. But businesses that stay informed and agile will be best positioned to weather the volatility. At Century Express Virginia, we believe that “attitude makes the difference.” 

Our team, with its wide range of expertise and deep roots in the port community, works to ensure every client can adapt to changing economic conditions with confidence. From drayage to storage and transloading, we help you move with intention—even when the market gets tough. 

So whether you’re moving cargo from port to warehouse or recalibrating your supply chain around the rising cost of beef, we’re here to help keep your business resilient. 

Contact Century Express Virginia today to learn how we can help streamline your supply chain in a time of rising costs and shifting trends. 

 

Safety First: How Century Express Virginia Mitigates Risks in Hazmat Drayage

Safety First: How Century Express Virginia Mitigates Risks in Hazmat Drayage

Navigating the Waves of Tariffs

Previous

Why Beef Prices Are Rising

Next

Safety First: How Century Express Virginia Mitigates Risks in Hazmat Drayage

Hazmat Drayage

Hazmat drayage is one of the most complex and highly regulated areas in the freight transportation industry. It involves moving hazardous materials, such as chemicals, flammable liquids, or pressurized gases, between ports, rail yards, and final destinations. While these shipments are vital to many industries, they also carry serious risks. 

A single mistake during handling or transit can result in costly fines, safety violations, or environmental damage. That’s why choosing the right drayage partner isn’t just important—it’s essential.  

At Century Express Virginia, safety is more than a priority. It’s the foundation of every hazmat move we make. We’ve built our business around protecting people, freight, and the environment. Our hazmat drayage services combine expertise, certified drivers, and proactive logistics planning to ensure everything we do meets or exceeds industry standards. 

Understanding Hazmat Drayage Risks 

Hazmat drayage involves moving federally regulated hazardous materials, typically over short distances. These materials fall into several classes defined by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), including: 

  • Class 3: Flammable liquids (e.g., gasoline, alcohol) 
  • Class 8: Corrosives (e.g., sulfuric acid) 
  • Class 2: Gases (e.g., propane, anhydrous ammonia) 
  • Class 6: Toxic substances (e.g., pesticides) 

Transporting dangerous materials by truck, even over short distances, poses multiple challenges. These risks include: 

  • Environmental hazards: Leaks or spills can have serious consequences for public health and the environment. They can lead to contamination of soil, water, or air, resulting in major cleanup costs and potential fines. 
  • Public safety threats: Routes often pass through urban and suburban areas. Trucks carrying hazmat materials must navigate through these populated areas with extreme caution, as an accident can put entire communities at risk. 
  • Operational delays: Failing to meet compliance standards or lacking proper permits can lead to costly hold-ups, port delays, rejected loads, or legal issues. 
  • Regulatory compliance: Hazmat shipments must follow strict rules set by the DOT and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These include labeling, placarding, and documentation standards. Non-compliance can result in fines, citations, and suspension of operations. 

Even a small oversight in handling or documentation can result in significant disruptions. That’s why freight and logistics managers need carriers that understand and control these risks from start to finish. 

Century Express Virginia’s Safety-First Approach 

At Century Express Virginia, we understand the burden hazmat shippers face. We’re here to take that pressure off your plate. Our safety-first culture guides everything we do, from how we train our drivers to how we monitor compliance and select routes.  

We believe safe transportation doesn’t just happen by chance—it happens by design. Our clients trust us because we handle every shipment with precision, professionalism, and a deep respect for public safety. 

Here’s a look at how our approach sets us apart: 

  • Hazmat-endorsed drivers: Every driver on our team is vetted, trained, and certified to handle hazardous loads. This includes classroom instruction, on-road training, and regular recertifications. 
  • 48-state coverage: As a bonded carrier, we maintain permits across 48 states, giving us the ability to facilitate multi-state moves with full regulatory alignment. 
  • Alcohol transport certified: Few carriers are qualified to handle alcohol. We are, thanks to our advanced permit structure and secure handling protocols. 

Comprehensive Safety Measures Implemented 

At Century Express Virginia, safety isn’t just a checkbox— 

Every hazmat shipment is different, which is why we tailor our approach based on the type of material, its hazard class, and the route. Our hazmat safety protocols include: 

1. Detailed Pre-Planning 

We assess each route for population density, road restrictions, and safe parking zones. 

  • We pre-check port requirements to prevent last-minute documentation issues. 

2. Real-Time Tracking 

  • GPS-equipped vehicles ensure complete visibility. 
  • Route deviation alerts enable rapid intervention in the event of emergencies. 

3. Thorough Vehicle Inspections 

  • All trucks and trailers undergo rigorous safety inspections before every hazmat load. 
  • We check brake systems, placard holders, seals, and containment measures. 

4. Load Securement and Containment 

  • Materials are secured according to DOT and FMCSA standards. 
  • We double-check packaging integrity to avoid leaks or breaches during transport. 

5. Permitting and Documentation 

  • Century Express Virginia handles all required shipping papers, emergency response guides, and hazmat placards. 
  • We track expiration dates for permits to ensure you never face a shipment delay due to paperwork issues. 

6. Emergency Preparedness 

  • Drivers carry spill kits and follow strict protocols in case of an incident. 
  • Our team is trained to coordinate with local authorities and environmental agencies if needed. 

7. Driver Training and Refreshers 

  • Ongoing training keeps drivers up to date on the latest regulations. 
  • Simulation-based training prepares them for real-world emergency scenarios. 

These steps help prevent the most common failures in hazmat transport. 

Our Commitment to Continuous Improvement 

Hazmat transport regulations are constantly changing, as are best practices. At Century Express Virginia, we believe that staying ahead of change is the key to ensuring safety and compliance in hazmat drayage. Here’s how we stay at the forefront: 

Regular Safety Audits 

Our internal teams conduct thorough reviews of every hazmat shipment, identifying areas for improvement. We evaluate inspection reports, client feedback, and industry benchmarks to ensure we’re always aware of both our successes and our shortcomings. 

Industry Engagement 

We monitor updates from DOT, FMCSA, and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Our compliance officers regularly attend logistics and hazmat conferences to stay informed. 

Technology Investment 

We continually upgrade our fleet to enhance fuel efficiency, tracking capabilities, and safety features. Digital documentation tools reduce paperwork errors and increase transparency. 

Client Education 

Our clients are our top priority, and we’re committed to helping our clients understand their regulatory responsibilities. Our team offers guidance on load classifications, packing standards, and paperwork accuracy to ensure shipments are completed properly and without delays. 

At Century Express Virginia, we don’t just want to move your freight—we want to improve how it’s moved. Freight managers and manufacturers don’t have time to second-guess whether a carrier knows what they’re doing. When transporting hazardous goods, peace of mind matters as much as performance. 

Century Express Virginia is a proven partner for: 

  • Logistics coordinators seeking reliable delivery without compliance headaches 
  • Industrial shippers moving corrosives, chemicals, or pressurized materials 
  • Port and rail clients needing bonded, multi-state coverage and surface drivers 
  • Food and beverage distributors shipping alcohol and temperature-sensitive materials under strict regulatory rules 

Partnering With Century Express Virginia for Safe Hazmat Drayage 

Hazmat drayage requires much more than a truck and a trailer. It requires a carrier that understands the risks, follows the rules, and puts safety first—every single time. 

If you’re looking for a carrier that takes hazmat seriously, you’ve found the right partner in Century Express Virginia. Our clients count on us for compliant, transparent, and proactive hazmat transport solutions. We work closely with logistics managers, warehouse coordinators, and compliance teams to ensure nothing is left to chance.  

With us, you never have to worry about whether your hazmat cargo is in good hands. We operate as an extension of your team, ensuring every load arrives on time and in full compliance. 

At Century Express Virginia, we deliver more than freight—we deliver confidence, reliability, and peace of mind. 

Let’s Move Your Hazmat Freight—Safely and Legally 

Ready to eliminate delays, reduce risk, and protect your reputation? Let our certified hazmat team help you plan your next safe, compliant move. 

Call us today at 757-494-9200 or reach out online to request a quote. 

 

Navigating the Waves of Tariffs

Navigating the Waves of Tariffs

Heavy cargo across state lines

Previous

Mitigates Risks in Hazmat Drayage

Next

Navigating the Waves of Tariffs

⚓ Navigating the Waves of Tariffs: Exemptions, Impacts, and Industry Responses 

Global supply chains are under unprecedented pressure as a wave of new tariffs and trade negotiations reshapes the cost structure for manufacturers, maritime operators, and end consumers. From high-stakes diplomatic efforts for tariff exemptions to grassroots calls from maritime workers and bold infrastructure investments, businesses and governments alike are racing to adapt. 

This blog post synthesizes the latest insights, exploring: 

  • High-level diplomatic negotiations and tariff relief efforts 
  • How supply chain leaders are coping with—and passing on—tariff costs 
  • The human impact on maritime workers and port communities 
  • Strategic infrastructure investments that aim to future-proof logistics hubs 
  1. Diplomatic Efforts for Tariff Relief

1.1 Mexico’s Push for Exemption 

On June 4, 2025, Mexico’s Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard announced plans to request an exemption from a newly imposed 50% U.S. steel tariff (up from 25%). Labeling the measure “unfair and unsustainable,” Ebrard will meet U.S. officials on June 6 to present a “Plan B” if relief is denied. Mexico’s automotive, construction, and electronics sectors stand to bear the brunt of higher steel costs. 

1.2 UK Reprieve and Tight Deadline 

Also on June 4, the U.K. secured a five-week reprieve from the doubling of its steel and aluminum tariffs. While spared the immediate jump to a 50% levy, the U.K. must finalize a broader trade agreement—or face automatic reapplication. Under the interim deal: 

  • U.S. tariffs on U.K. steel will remain at 25%, with aluminum unchanged 
  • Duties on metals to be reduced to zero upon final agreement, and auto tariffs to 10% 
  • The U.K. will expedite U.S. exports through its customs process 

“UK steel won’t be subject to additional tariffs. My government will always protect British businesses and British jobs,” stated Prime Minister Keir Starmer. 

 

 

 

Key data: 

Metric 

Value 

U.K. steel exports to U.S. 

~200,000 metric tons/year 

Export value 

$532 million 

1.3 U.S.–EU Negotiations in Paris 

In Paris on June 4, U.S. and EU trade negotiators discussed a “zero for zero” proposal to eliminate tariffs on industrial goods, including autos. The EU has already raised its car tariff on U.S. imports from 2.5% to 25% in retaliation. While French Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin affirmed several more weeks of negotiations remain, the Trump administration has been “looking for a reason not to impose tariffs on the EU,” according to former U.S. trade representative Greta Peisch. 

  1. Industry Responses: Cost Pass-Through & Mitigation

2.1 Passing Tariff Costs to Customers 

A recent survey of supply chain leaders reveals that 45% plan to pass tariff costs directly to customers. Key findings: 

  • 31% adopt an “all-or-nothing” pass-through, shifting 80–100% of costs 
  • 47% are renegotiating supplier contracts; 43% seek collaboration opportunities; 39% are adjusting supply locations 
  • Top risk: increased costs (92%), followed by slowing customer demand (75%) and retaliatory measures (45%) 
  • 27% view new U.S. tariffs as potential competitive advantages if leveraged properly 

“Supply chains are becoming more agile and responsive,” says Wade L. McDaniel, VP Distinguished Advisor, Gartner Supply Chain. 

2.2 Mitigation Strategies 

Supply chain executives are exploring several levers: 

  • Tariff engineering: adjusting product classifications to qualify for lower duties 
  • Supplier diversification: shifting volumes to lower-tariff regions 
  • Contract renegotiation: building in cost-sharing clauses 
  • Collaborative procurement: pooling buying power across partners 
  1. Human Impact: Mariners and Port Workers

At the Propeller Club of Northern California’s Maritime Day (May 28, 2025), union leaders and port officials highlighted the real-world toll of tariffs: 

  • Demetrius Williams (ILWU Local 10 President): tariffs act as “a tax on working people,” raising goods prices and threatening longshore jobs 
  • Jack Hedge (Pasha Group VP): emphasized the strain on Hawaii’s economy and tourism 
  • Anne McEntee (SF Bar Pilots Business Manager): called for stronger stakeholder cooperation to maintain stability 
  • Nick Marrone (SIU VP): drew parallels to historical challenges faced by mariners 

These testimonies underscore the need for policy solutions that balance economic objectives with workforce protections. 

  1. Strategic Infrastructure Investments

Tradepoint Terminals’ $35M Bulk Conveyance Upgrade 

Tradepoint Terminals (a subsidiary of Tradepoint Atlantic) is investing $35 million in a state-of-the-art bulk conveyance system, slated for completion in January 2026. Highlights include: 

  • High-capacity conveyors and hoppers with variable-speed control 
  • Expanded indoor/outdoor storage across 50 acres of paved space 
  • Enhanced rail connectivity for Panamax vessels 

“This investment is about more than just new equipment—it’s about building infrastructure that anticipates the needs of global supply chains,” says Russell Williams, Vice President, Tradepoint Terminals. 

Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier notes the project will energize the local economy and strengthen the East Coast’s position as a bulk-cargo gateway. 

 

Tariffs continue to ripple across global trade, driving intense diplomatic negotiations, strategic cost-management tactics, and crucial infrastructure upgrades. Whether it’s Mexico and the U.K. seeking exemptions, supply chain executives hedging rising costs, maritime workers sounding the alarm, or ports investing in resilience, the common thread is adaptability. 

As tariffs ebb and flow, stakeholders must remain agile—leveraging negotiations, engineering solutions, and targeted investments—to maintain competitive supply chains and safeguard the workers at their heart. 

Stay tuned for updates as negotiations progress and companies implement innovative responses to this evolving landscape. 

Heavy cargo across state lines

Heavy cargo across state lines

What Can Move by Rail Drayage?

Previous

Navigating the Waves of Tariffs

Next

Heavy Cargo, No Hassle: How Century Express Virginia Navigates Overweight Permits Across State Lines

Transporting oversized or overweight cargo involves more than just having the right truck, it requires detailed planning and precise coordination, plus expert knowledge of state and federal laws. This type of cargo often involves unique equipment, restrictive travel hours, and strict documentation requirements. One missed step can delay your cargo and cost your business thousands of dollars.

At Century Express Virginia, we oversee all of this for our customers. Our team handles the full scope of heavy cargo permitting and logistics. We make sure your shipment meets every legal requirement from pickup to delivery.

Whenever you need to ship heavy freight, having a trusted carrier on your side means fewer delays and fewer surprises. That’s what Century Express Virginia delivers.

This blog will walk you through what qualifies as overweight cargo, the challenges of interstate permitting, and how our turnkey approach helps you move oversized freight with confidence.

What Is Considered ‘Overweight’ Cargo?

Overweight or overdimensional cargo is any shipment that exceeds the standard size or weight limits for highway travel. Federal guidelines set these limits, but each state can apply its own specific rules. As a result, you need an understanding of both national and local thresholds.

General Legal Limits for Highway Travel:

  • Width: 8 feet 6 inches
  • Height: 13 feet 6 inches
  • Length: 48–53 feet for trailers (varies by state)
  • Weight: 80,000 pounds GVW (gross vehicle weight)

Anything exceeding these dimensions requires a special permit. In many cases, you might also need an escort vehicle, signage, and route planning.

Examples of Overweight or Oversized Freight:

  • Construction machinery (excavators, bulldozers)
  • Wind turbine blades or tower components
  • Industrial tanks or boilers
  • Large generators and transformers
  • Precast concrete sections
  • Agricultural equipment (combines, planters)

These cargo types often make up part of time-sensitive construction, energy, or infrastructure projects. A delay in delivery can hold up an entire job site, costing thousands of dollars in lost productivity. In some industries, oversized freight also needs to be delivered during specific hours to meet site restrictions or unloading availability.

It’s not just about physical size. Shipment weight, balance, and trailer compatibility all factor into identifying a load as “overweight.” Understanding how to match cargo with compliant equipment holds as much importance as the permits themselves.

The Challenge of Multi-State Permitting

Obtaining permits for a single state has enough complications, but crossing multiple states with an oversized load creates a whole new level of complexity.

Each state has its own set of:

  • Size and weight thresholds for requiring permits
  • Travel time restrictions (night, weekend, or holiday movement)
  • Escort vehicle requirements (spacing, signage, and certifications)
  • Road, bridge, and tunnel limitations based on infrastructure capacity
  • Seasonal restrictions or weather-related closures

Even when two neighboring states have similar rules, the permit application process may differ entirely. Some states use electronic portals, while others require phone calls or faxed documentation. Processing times also vary. Some permits get issued instantly, while others can take days.

What Happens If You’re Not Fully Compliant?

  • Fines and citations. Non-compliance can result in immediate penalties.
  • Detainment. Your load may be stopped at a checkpoint or weigh station.
  • Offloading. In serious cases, law enforcement may require you to offload or reroute your cargo.
  • Loss of customer trust. Delays and penalties can reflect poorly on your service reliability.

It takes significant time and effort to manage these permits. Shippers or logistics teams that don’t regularly handle oversized freight often overlook a small requirement, such as applying for a weekend travel exception or checking bridge weight limits along a specific route. Unfortunately, these oversights can lead to stopped loads and missed delivery windows.

That’s why many companies turn to specialists like Century Express Virginia to take the lead.

Turnkey Approach at Century Express Virginia

As your cargo delivery partner, we eliminate the guesswork and stress that come with oversized and overweight permitting. Our team handles every step of the process, from route planning to final delivery. We act as your personal liaison, checking off every requirement and finalizing every permit before the wheels roll.

Our Process:

  1. Load Analysis: We assess your shipment’s exact weight, dimensions, and configuration to determine what’s needed in each jurisdiction.
  2. Route Planning: We chart approved travel paths, avoiding restricted bridges, tight curves, low-clearance overpasses, and high-traffic zones.
  3. Permit Acquisition: Our specialists submit applications to each required state agency, monitor turnaround times, and troubleshoot delays.
  4. Escort and Compliance Coordination: We align any required pilot cars, signage, or bucket trucks with permit conditions.
  5. Real-Time Updates: We stay in contact with drivers and customers throughout the move, keeping everyone informed and on track.

Our Team’s Permitting Expertise

Our permitting team has worked directly with DOT offices, transportation departments, and escort service providers across the country for nearly 20 years. We know which states process quickly, which require extra documentation, and how to fast-track approvals when needed.

We also keep up with annual regulatory changes, ensuring every route and permit follows the latest state and federal guidelines. This plays an important role during seasonal changes, construction detours, or natural disaster re-routings that may impact safe travel for oversized loads.

Avoiding Common Mistakes with Heavy Cargo Transport

Many shippers underestimate what goes into moving oversized loads. Some of the most common mistakes we help clients avoid are:

  • Assuming permits are optional
  • Overlooking state holidays and time-of-day restrictions
  • Failing to verify bridge weight limits
  • Delaying permit applications

Each one of these oversights can impact delivery contracts, project timelines, and client satisfaction. In many cases, we’ve helped clients recover from mistakes made by less experienced carriers, rerouting delayed cargo due to improper permitting or non-compliant equipment.

When you work with Century Express Virginia from the start, you avoid these risks altogether.

Benefits to the Customer

Transporting heavy freight requires more than just getting from point A to point B without delay. Drivers need to get there safely and legally, too. Century Express Virginia makes that happen, thanks to our thorough, dependable approach.

Why Customers Trust Our Permitting Services:

  • Regulatory confidence
  • No surprises
  • Time and resource savings
  • Streamlined communication
  • Custom-tailored service

Whether you’re a freight manager moving industrial equipment or a manufacturer coordinating delivery for a construction site, we make sure you stay informed, compliant, and on schedule. We often anticipate problems before they happen, saving our clients both time and money.

Nationwide Oversize Load Solutions Without the Stress

Oversized loads don’t need to come with oversized headaches. Century Express Virginia brings the experience and dedication to handle your heavy cargo permitting from start to finish.

Our job is to make yours easier by navigating the red tape, managing the risks, and keeping your freight moving.

No delays. No compliance confusion. Just a smooth, professional experience from the first permit to final delivery.