Overhanging Load on Trailers: What’s Allowed?

You’re loading up your trailer, the job is waiting and then it turns out: your cargo doesn’t quite fit. It sticks out. Now what? Can the load legally extend beyond the trailer? And if so, by how much?

In this article, we explain the Dutch regulations regarding overhanging load on trailers, and why it’s smart to choose the right trailer size in the first place.
Please note: these regulations apply to the Netherlands. Rules may vary in other countries.

Choose the Right Trailer Size First

At Henra, we always recommend starting with the basics: choose a trailer that fits your entire load inside the loading area. It’s the safest, most efficient option and it avoids unnecessary risks or fines.

But in real life, overhanging loads do occur. And when they do, you need to comply with specific regulations depending on the type of load.

Dutch Legal Requirements for Overhanging Loads

There are two categories of load:

• Divisible load – items that can be split or dismantled (e.g. boxes, equipment, materials)

• Indivisible load – items that cannot be separated without damage (e.g. beams, ladders, long poles)

Different rules apply to each.

➤ Divisible Load

• Front overhang: Not allowed at all on a trailer.

• Side overhang: Maximum of 20 cm per side. If more than 10 cm, red-white marking is required.

• Rear overhang: Allowed up to 1 metre.

• Warning signs: Not mandatory under 1 metre, but recommended for visibility.

• At night: White light at the front, red light at the rear required if the load extends more than 1 metre.

➤ Indivisible Load

• Front overhang: Not allowed under any circumstances.

• Side overhang: Allowed as long as the total width of the trailer including the load does not exceed 3 metres.

• Rear overhang: Permitted up to half the length of the trailer, with a maximum of 5 metres measured from the rear axle.

• Long load marking: Required when overhanging more than 1 metre at the rear.

When Are Load Markers Required?

In the Netherlands, a load marker board is required when:

• The load sticks out more than 1 metre at the rear, or

• The load extends more than 10 cm sideways (excluding passenger cars).

The marker board must meet the following criteria:

• Square shape with red and white diagonal stripes

• Stripe width between 7 and 10 cm

• Mounted perpendicularly to the load

• Installed at a height between 35 cm and 170 cm

• At night: white front light and red rear light required

🚫 Front overhang is not permitted, even with marking – this applies to both divisible and indivisible loads.

Avoid Trouble – Choose the Right Trailer

An overhanging load requires extra attention, equipment and effort. That’s why we recommend: prevent the problem by choosing the right trailer size from the start. Henra offers a wide range of professional trailers, including platform and enclosed trailers, all built to meet the highest demands.

Standard features of Henra trailers include:

• Spacious loading areas

• Multiple tie-down options

• Heavy-duty chassis for reliable handling

With Henra, you transport your cargo safely and within legal limits.

Need Help Choosing?

Would you like to know more about trailer sizing or help selecting the right model? Contact your local Henra dealer for expert advice.

➡️ Henra. Built for professionals. Engineered to perform.