Question 1

What is a pilot car and why do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A pilot car, also known as an escort vehicle, is a vehicle that accompanies oversized or overweight loads to ensure safe passage. Pilot cars are required by state regulations for loads exceeding certain dimensions. They alert other motorists to the approaching load, help navigate tight spots, and ensure clearance under bridges and power lines.

Question 2

What areas do you service?

Accepted Answer

AUMOR Inc. is the Midwest's largest pilot car company, providing services across all 48 continental US states and Canada. Our primary coverage focuses on the Midwest including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. We're BBB A+ Accredited and an SCRA Member.

Question 3

How far in advance should I book pilot car services?

Accepted Answer

We recommend booking at least 48-72 hours in advance for standard loads. For complex routes, multiple escort requirements, or during peak seasons, 1-2 weeks notice is preferred. However, we understand the industry often requires quick turnarounds and we'll do our best to accommodate urgent requests.

Question 4

What certifications do your drivers have?

Accepted Answer

All AUMOR drivers are certified pilot car operators with state-specific certifications for each state we operate in. Our drivers undergo regular training on safety protocols, communication procedures, and state regulations. We maintain current certifications and ensure compliance with all DOT requirements.

Question 5

What types of pilot car services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a comprehensive range of services including: Lead Car (front escort), Chase Car (rear escort), Height Pole services for overhead clearance verification, Route Surveys for pre-trip planning, OSOW Permit assistance, Utility/Bucket Truck services, and Steerman services for complex loads requiring additional control.

Question 6

What equipment do your pilot cars carry?

Accepted Answer

Our pilot cars are fully equipped with height poles (up to 17'), OVERSIZE LOAD signs, amber warning lights, flags, two-way radios, GPS navigation, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and all state-required safety equipment. We ensure all equipment meets or exceeds state requirements.

Question 7

Do you provide height pole services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, height pole services are one of our core offerings. Our vehicles are equipped with adjustable height poles to verify overhead clearances for bridges, power lines, and other obstructions. This is essential for loads with significant height dimensions.

Question 8

Can you help with OSOW permits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide assistance with Oversize/Overweight (OSOW) permit applications. We can help navigate the permitting process across all Midwest states, ensuring you have the proper documentation for your route. Contact us for details on permit services.

Question 9

What is the InCreditable Deal™ program?

Accepted Answer

The InCreditable Deal™ is our prepaid discount program that offers up to 30% savings on pilot car services. By prepaying for credits, you lock in discounted rates starting at $1.40/mile for lead/chase cars. There are multiple tiers from $1,000 to $20,000+ with increasing discounts. Visit our InCreditable Deal page to learn more and see the full rate schedule.

Question 10

How is pricing determined?

Accepted Answer

Our pricing is based on several factors including: per-mile rates, daily minimum charges, number of escort vehicles required, route complexity, time of service (night moves or weekends may have different rates), and any special equipment needs. We provide detailed quotes before each job.

Question 11

What are your payment terms?

Accepted Answer

We offer flexible payment terms for established clients including Net 15, Net 30, and other arrangements. New clients may be required to pay upon completion or provide payment in advance. We accept various payment methods including checks, ACH transfers, and credit cards.

Question 12

Is there a minimum charge?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have daily minimum charges that apply regardless of the actual mileage. This covers the base cost of having a certified pilot car and driver available for your load. Specific minimum charges are included in your quote.

Question 13

Do you offer volume discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer competitive rates for clients with regular shipping needs through our InCreditable Deal™ program. Prepay for credits and save up to 30% on all services. Contact us to discuss your volume requirements and we'll create a customized rate structure for your business.

Question 14

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations with 48+ hours notice incur no fee. Cancellations within 24-48 hours are subject to a 25% fee. Less than 24 hours notice results in a 50% fee. No-shows are charged the full daily minimum. We understand circumstances change, so please communicate with us as early as possible.

Question 15

Can you accommodate last-minute requests?

Accepted Answer

We do our best to accommodate urgent requests based on driver and vehicle availability. While advance booking is preferred, we understand the trucking industry often requires quick responses. Call us directly for urgent needs and we'll work to find a solution.

Question 16

How do I communicate with the pilot car driver during transport?

Accepted Answer

Our drivers are equipped with two-way radios and cell phones for constant communication. Before departure, we establish communication protocols and share driver contact information. Our dispatch team is also available 24/7 for coordination.

Question 17

What happens if there are delays or route changes?

Accepted Answer

We maintain flexibility for real-world conditions. If delays occur due to weather, traffic, or other factors, our drivers will communicate changes and adjust plans accordingly. Route changes during transport may affect pricing and will be discussed with you in real-time.

Question 18

How many pilot cars do I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of pilot cars required depends on load dimensions, route, and state regulations. Generally: loads over 12' wide may require 1 pilot car, loads over 14-16' wide typically require 2 pilot cars (front and rear), and some states have additional requirements for extra-long or extra-heavy loads. We'll advise you on requirements for your specific route.

Question 19

Do regulations differ by state?

Accepted Answer

Yes, each state has unique pilot car requirements regarding dimensions requiring escorts, driver certification requirements, equipment specifications, and hours of operation. AUMOR drivers are certified in all Midwest states and stay current on regulation changes. Visit our Regulations page for state-specific details.

Question 20

Do I need a pilot car for night moves?

Accepted Answer

Many states restrict or prohibit night moves for oversized loads, while others allow them with additional requirements. Night moves often require additional lighting and may require additional escort vehicles. We can advise on night move regulations for your route.

Question 21

Are there seasonal restrictions I should know about?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some states have seasonal weight restrictions (especially during spring thaw) and may have different requirements during winter months. Holiday travel restrictions may also apply. Contact us to discuss any seasonal considerations for your planned route.

Question 22

When are OSOW movements restricted during holidays?

Accepted Answer

Most states restrict OSOW (oversize/overweight) movement during major holidays. The 'Big 6' holidays with strictest restrictions are: Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's. Restriction windows typically start the day before and extend through the day after the holiday. Visit our Holiday Restrictions guide for specific dates.

Question 23

Which states have the strictest holiday restrictions?

Accepted Answer

Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Connecticut have some of the strictest holiday restrictions. Pennsylvania's PA Turnpike can have restrictions up to 14 days during Christmas/New Year. New Jersey has the longest Thanksgiving restriction at 5 consecutive days. Wyoming is unique in having no statewide holiday restrictions.

Question 24

Can I get an exemption for holiday travel?

Accepted Answer

Some states offer limited exemptions for emergency situations, agricultural equipment during harvest, or loads already in transit when restrictions begin. However, most major holidays have no exemptions. Contact the specific state's DOT permit office at least 2 weeks in advance to inquire about emergency exemptions.

Question 25

How far in advance should I plan around holiday restrictions?

Accepted Answer

We recommend planning at least 2-3 weeks ahead of major holidays. Submit permit applications 1-2 weeks before the restriction window starts. For multi-state routes crossing restricted states, plan alternative timing or routes. Use our Holiday Restrictions calendar to identify all affected dates on your route.

Question 26

What happens if I'm caught moving during a holiday restriction?

Accepted Answer

Violations can result in permit revocation, fines ranging from $500-$10,000+ depending on the state, impoundment of the load, and potential criminal charges for repeat offenders. Insurance may not cover accidents that occur during prohibited movement times. Always verify restriction dates before departure.

Question 27

Are there different restriction levels for holidays?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 'Full prohibition' means no OSOW movement is allowed. 'Restricted' means limited movement may be allowed for certain load dimensions (typically under 12' wide or legal weight). 'Normal operations' means standard permits apply. Check our state-specific holiday guides for detailed restriction levels.

Question 28

How do you transport wind turbine blades?

Accepted Answer

Wind turbine blade transport requires specialized trailers (blade trailers) that can extend up to 200+ feet. Each blade typically needs a lead car with high pole, chase car, and often a steering/steerman at the rear. Routes are pre-surveyed for clearance issues. AUMOR has extensive experience escorting blades up to 80 meters long across the Midwest.

Question 29

What escort requirements exist for nacelle transport?

Accepted Answer

Nacelles (the turbine housing) typically weigh 80-150+ tons and require heavy-haul trailers with multiple axle configurations. Most states require front and rear escorts, and superload permits are almost always needed. Police escorts may be required for the heaviest loads. We coordinate all permits and escorts for complete nacelle moves.

Question 30

Do you escort solar farm equipment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide escort services for solar farm construction equipment including large inverters, transformer pads, tracker systems, and construction equipment like cranes and excavators. While solar panels themselves are typically legal-size loads, the installation equipment often requires oversize permits and escorts.

Question 31

What's involved in wind tower section transport?

Accepted Answer

Wind tower sections are large-diameter steel cylinders (12-16+ feet wide) transported on specialized trailers. Each section requires front escort with high pole for overhead clearance and rear escort for traffic control. Tower bottom sections are the widest and may require route modifications or power line lifting.

Question 32

Can you help with wind farm decommissioning?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Wind turbine decommissioning involves transporting removed blades, nacelles, and tower sections to recycling facilities or landfills. Cut blade segments, refurbished components, and scrap equipment all require escort services. We work with decommissioning contractors throughout the turbine end-of-life process.

Question 33

Do you escort drilling rig moves?

Accepted Answer

Yes, drilling rig transport is one of our core services. Rig components—substructure, mast, drawworks, mud pumps, and generators—often exceed legal dimensions. We provide multi-vehicle escort convoys for complete rig relocations, coordinating with permit services and state troopers as required.

Question 34

What about transformer transport?

Accepted Answer

Power transformers are among the heaviest and most delicate loads we escort. Large transformers can weigh 200-500+ tons and require multi-axle configurations, bridge analysis permits, and extensive route planning. AUMOR escorts transformer moves for utilities and electrical contractors across all Midwest states.

Question 35

Can you escort pipeline equipment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we escort pipeline construction equipment including side booms, pipe bending machines, welding rigs, and large-diameter pipe strings. Pipeline corridor moves often involve multiple pieces traveling together, and we can provide convoy escort services for efficient equipment mobilization.

Question 36

Do you work with refinery and petrochemical projects?

Accepted Answer

AUMOR escorts refinery equipment including reactors, distillation columns, pressure vessels, heat exchangers, and compressor packages. These are often superloads requiring police escort coordination. We have experience with turnaround projects where timing is critical.

Question 37

What's involved in compressor station equipment moves?

Accepted Answer

Compressor stations require transport of large compressor packages, gas turbines, coolers, and control buildings. Many components exceed 14' width requiring dual escorts. We coordinate with pipeline operators and general contractors to ensure smooth equipment delivery to remote compressor station sites.

Question 38

How do you escort construction cranes?

Accepted Answer

Tower cranes, crawler cranes, and mobile cranes all require specialized transport. The boom sections, counterweights, and base units travel on separate trailers. We provide coordinated escort services for multi-truck crane moves, including height pole service for boom sections and width escorts for wide counterweights.

Question 39

Do you transport excavators and bulldozers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, heavy equipment like excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders, and graders are common escort loads. While some equipment fits on standard lowboys, larger machines like CAT D11 dozers or mining excavators require oversize permits. AUMOR escorts construction equipment for contractors, rental companies, and equipment dealers.

Question 40

What about precast concrete and bridge beams?

Accepted Answer

Bridge girders and precast concrete sections are long, heavy loads requiring front escort with high pole and rear escort for traffic management. Lengths can exceed 150 feet for bridge beams. We coordinate with DOT and construction managers for bridge and highway construction projects.

Question 41

Can you escort equipment to remote construction sites?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many construction projects—wind farms, solar installations, pipeline corridors—are in rural areas with limited road access. We survey routes in advance, identify weight-restricted bridges, and coordinate with local authorities for road access. Our drivers are experienced with unpaved and gravel road deliveries.

Question 42

Do you provide escorts for mining equipment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mining equipment including haul trucks, excavators, draglines, crushers, and conveyor systems are among the largest loads on the road. CAT 797 haul trucks, for example, require extensive route planning and multiple escorts. AUMOR works with mining contractors for equipment mobilization and demobilization.

Question 43

Can you escort industrial machinery?

Accepted Answer

AUMOR escorts industrial equipment including CNC machines, stamping presses, injection molding machines, and production line equipment. Factory relocations often involve multiple oversize pieces moving in sequence. We provide convoy escort services for efficient plant equipment moves.

Question 44

What about aerospace and defense equipment?

Accepted Answer

We escort aerospace components including aircraft fuselages, wings, engine nacelles, and satellite transport containers. Defense equipment moves may require additional security protocols. Our drivers are experienced with the special handling requirements of aerospace cargo.

Question 45

Do you work with modular and prefab buildings?

Accepted Answer

Modular buildings—homes, offices, classrooms, data centers—are a growing segment of our business. Wide loads (typically 14-16' wide) require front and rear escorts. We escort modular buildings for manufacturers, set crews, and general contractors throughout the Midwest.

Question 46

Can you help with plant relocation projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes, factory and plant relocations involve coordinating multiple oversized equipment moves over days or weeks. AUMOR can provide dedicated escort resources for major relocation projects, ensuring consistent service and familiarity with the route for each load.

Question 47

What about food processing or pharmaceutical equipment?

Accepted Answer

We escort specialized equipment for food processing plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and cleanroom installations. Large vessels, tanks, reactors, and production equipment often require oversize permits. We understand the time-sensitive nature of plant construction projects.

Question 48

Do combines and harvesters need pilot cars?

Accepted Answer

Yes, modern combines and harvesters often exceed 14-18' width with headers attached. Even with headers removed, many require oversize permits and escorts during transport. AUMOR provides escort services for farm equipment dealers, custom harvesters, and farmers moving equipment between fields.

Question 49

What about large tractors and implements?

Accepted Answer

Large agricultural tractors with duals, articulated 4WD tractors, and wide implements like planters, sprayers, and tillage equipment often require pilot car escorts. We serve agricultural equipment dealers, farmers, and custom operators across the Midwest farming region.

Question 50

Can you escort grain bins and silos?

Accepted Answer

Grain storage equipment including bins, silos, legs, and conveyors are regular escort loads. Large-diameter bins may require special routing to avoid overhead obstructions. We work with grain system manufacturers and agricultural contractors.

Question 51

Do seasonal restrictions affect farm equipment moves?

Accepted Answer

Spring weight restrictions (frost laws) can impact farm equipment transport in many Midwest states. Posted roads may have reduced weight limits. We help coordinate timing and routing to work around seasonal restrictions while getting equipment where it's needed for planting and harvest.

Question 52

What permits are needed for farm equipment?

Accepted Answer

Some states offer agricultural exemptions for implements of husbandry, but most farm equipment transport requires standard oversize permits. Requirements vary by state—Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota each have different agricultural transport rules. We can advise on permit requirements for your specific equipment and route.

Question 53

Do you escort boats and yachts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, boat and yacht transport is a specialized service. Sailboats, powerboats, and commercial vessels all require width and height consideration. We provide escort services for marine dealers, boat manufacturers, and boat transport companies moving vessels to and from waterways.

Question 54

What about railroad equipment?

Accepted Answer

We escort locomotives, rail cars, subway cars, and track maintenance equipment. Rail equipment moves on special trailers and often requires extensive route planning due to weight and dimensions. AUMOR works with railroads, transit agencies, and rail equipment manufacturers.

Question 55

Can you escort shipyard equipment?

Accepted Answer

Port and shipyard equipment including container cranes, ship-to-shore cranes, and marine construction equipment are among the largest loads transported. These superloads require police escorts, bridge analysis, and extensive coordination. We have experience with major port equipment deliveries.

Question 56

What's special about light rail vehicle transport?

Accepted Answer

Light rail vehicles, streetcars, and subway cars are long (70-100+ feet) and relatively light but require careful height and width clearance management. Multiple vehicles often move in convoys to new transit systems or for maintenance. We escort transit vehicles for manufacturers and transit agencies.

Question 57

Do you work with freight brokers and 3PLs?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many of our clients are freight brokers, third-party logistics providers, and load boards that need reliable pilot car services for their carrier partners. We provide quick quotes, carrier-friendly billing, and consistent service quality that helps you serve your customers.

Question 58

Can you provide escorts for multi-load convoys?

Accepted Answer

Yes, convoy escort services are efficient for multiple loads traveling the same route. Wind farm projects, plant relocations, and equipment dealers often move several loads in sequence. We coordinate convoy timing and provide appropriate escort vehicles for each load configuration.

Question 59

How do you handle cross-country routes?

Accepted Answer

For routes extending beyond our 12-state Midwest coverage, we coordinate with partner pilot car companies to provide seamless escort service. We can help arrange nationwide coverage or handle the Midwest portion of a longer route while coordinating handoffs.

Question 60

What communication systems do your drivers use?

Accepted Answer

AUMOR drivers are equipped with CB radios, cell phones, and GPS tracking. We maintain constant communication with the truck driver and can relay route information, traffic conditions, and clearance issues in real-time. Our dispatch center is available 24/7 for coordination.

Question 61

Do you provide certificates of insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we carry $1M+ liability coverage and can provide certificates of insurance (COI) upon request. Many carriers and shippers require proof of escort vehicle insurance. We can add your company as additionally insured if required by your client's contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Services & Equipment

Pricing & Payment

Scheduling & Operations

Regulations & Compliance

Holiday Restrictions

Wind Energy & Renewable Projects

Oil, Gas & Energy Equipment

Construction & Heavy Equipment

Manufacturing & Industrial Moves

Agriculture & Farm Equipment

Marine & Railroad Equipment

Logistics & Carrier Questions

Industry-Specific Escort Services

Still Have Questions?