• WelcomeBear@lemmy.world
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    5 months ago

    In the US, all metal tubes/pipes/stock for metal-working related tasks (welding, plumbing, structural stuff) comes in 20ft sections. The three options that I know of for transporting them are: trailer, box truck or roof rack.
    A 22foot truck with roof rack would be perfect for someone who works with metal e.g. a plumber. A smaller truck would work but then you’ve got a bunch of pipes hanging off like you’re in a jousting tournament.

    • Buddahriffic@lemmy.world
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      5 months ago

      20 foot pipes on a roof rack sounds like an impalation waiting to happen, regardless of the size of the vehicle underneath.

      Trailer or box truck delivery to their shop where they can cut it to length and transport it in a smaller vehicle if it fits. And if it doesn’t, use the trailer or box truck to deliver it to the site.

      Most of the time, I’d guess that pipe that long is involved in new builds or major renovations.

      Or, at the very least, make these oversized trucks require a business or trades license if they are truly the best option for some business or trades scenarios.

      • WelcomeBear@lemmy.world
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        5 months ago

        Aright then, how about for a ladder? Do you want to drive a box truck or trailer around to hold one ladder and painting supplies or whatever?

        This is basically what I’m talking about, very common around me. Sometimes the load hangs outside the perimeter of the truck, at which point they secure a little red flag so you don’t rear end them and impale yourself. I’d prefer to rear end the bumper of a 22ft truck instead.

        • Buddahriffic@lemmy.world
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          5 months ago

          At least a ladder can be secured with more than just friction on the sides, so I’m not as concerned about the safety.

          People were able to move ladders before oversized trucks were a thing.

          But it would work with the “limit them to businesses and trades people who actually benefit from having an oversized truck instead of a small or normal sized one”.