Top Pilot Truck Services Companies

How to choose a pilot truck company

Certification comes first. Many states require pilot car operators to hold a certification, and some require state-specific training or reciprocity. Confirm each driver is certified for every state on the route and that vehicles carry the signs, lights, flags, radios and height pole that permits demand.

Check insurance limits against what your permits and customers require, and ask for a certificate naming you. Ask about experience with your load type, since escorting a wind blade differs from a house move, and whether the company runs route surveys.

Red flags include drivers who cannot show certifications, vehicles missing required equipment, no written route plan for complex moves, and unclear charges for waiting time and overnight stays.

How pilot truck services are priced

Pilot cars are usually priced per mile with a daily minimum, or at a day rate for slow, short moves. Extras include height pole surcharges, overnight lodging and meals, deadhead miles to reach the load, waiting time when loads are delayed, and route survey fees.

The cost depends on the number of escorts the permit requires, load dimensions, route length and complexity, the states crossed, whether height poles or police escorts are needed, and how much waiting the move involves. Curfews that restrict travel to daylight hours or weekdays stretch moves over more days, which adds lodging and day charges. Ask for all surcharges in writing before booking.