Safety Flags, Oversize Load Signs and Wide Load Banners
Marking an oversize load is part of the job on any flatbed, equipment hauler, or escort vehicle run. Fasteners Plus carries 18" x 18" safety flags in red and orange, reversible Oversize Load and Wide Load banners, magnets, conspicuity tape, and ready-made oversize load kits, so you can stock the truck with the marking supplies your loads call for. Requirements depend on the load and the states you run through, so confirm what applies to your trip before you roll.
Safety Flags
Warning flags mark the extremities of a projecting load. The flags in this collection are 18" x 18" and offered in red and orange, and the product pages list them as meeting FMCSA 49 CFR Section 393.87 and most state requirements for marking oversize loads. Material and mounting style vary, so pick the combination that fits your trailer hardware:
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Dowel flags: Built on a 32" dowel for use with flag holders, trailer hardware, and pilot cars, such as the Red Nylon Mesh Safety Flag with 32" Dowel in double vinyl-coated mesh.
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Mesh and jersey flags: Vinyl-coated and fray-resistant jersey mesh flags are designed to resist fraying and cut down on wind resistance. Browse the Red Vinyl-Coated Mesh Replacement Flag for a flag you can pair with your own hardware.
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Wire rod, bungee, and poly/cotton styles: Additional flag styles with a wire rod or a 35" bungee cord, plus heavy-duty poly/cotton versions, round out the range.
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Flag with mounting kit: The Red Jersey Safety Flag with Mounting Kit pairs an 18" x 18" flag with a steel bracket and spring-loaded attachment, a good fit for trucks and trailers without an existing flag mount.
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Flag magnets: The Safety Flag Magnet is a rust-resistant option for steel surfaces.
Oversize Load and Wide Load Signs and Banners
Signs and banners tell other drivers what is coming and are often used on pilot cars and escort vehicles as well as on the load vehicle itself. The 84" x 18" Oversize/Wide Load Sign with Grommets & Rope Ties is reversible, with "Wide Load" on one side and "Oversize Load" on the other, bold black lettering on a high-visibility yellow background, and reinforced brass grommets. Other sizes and formats include a 72" x 14" sign with grommets and rope ties, an 84" x 18" vinyl mesh sign, and an 84" x 18" banner with bungee cords. Sign size, lettering, and placement rules vary by state, so check the requirements for each state on your route.
For loads that need a "Caution Wide Right Turns" message, the collection also includes an 11-1/2" x 16" vertical sign.
Oversize Load Kits
Kits put the basics in one order, so you can keep a complete set in the truck.
Conspicuity Tape and Other Highway Safety Supplies
This collection also carries 2" conspicuity tape in rolls and strips, orange traffic cones, reflective safety triangles, hi-vis vests, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) Handbook, so you can build out a complete set of highway safety supplies in one place.
How to Choose the Right Flags and Signs
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Color: Red and orange are the flag colors in this collection. Choose according to the requirements for your load and the states you cross.
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Flag style: Dowel flags work with flag holders, wire rod and bungee styles suit other hardware, and magnets suit steel surfaces. Pick the style that matches the hardware already on your truck or trailer.
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Sign size: 84" x 18" banners are made for escort and lead vehicles. 72" x 14" signs suit smaller applications.
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Material: Vinyl, mesh, and jersey materials offer different balances of wind resistance, visibility, and durability, so compare product pages for the details.
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Replacement or complete kit: Individual flags and banners are ideal for restocking, while kits are a simple way to equip a new truck or crew.
Permit, escort, and marking rules for oversize and overweight loads differ from state to state. Review the federal regulations and each state DOT's requirements, or consult your permit provider, before moving a load.
Common Applications
- Flatbed and step-deck loads that extend past the trailer
- Heavy equipment, machinery, and structure hauling
- Pilot car and escort vehicle marking
- Fleet restocking of replacement flags and banners
- Owner-operators building a ready-to-go oversize load kit
Safety Flag and Oversize Load Sign FAQs
What size should safety flags be?
The flags in this collection are 18" x 18", which is the size listed on their product pages as meeting 49 CFR Section 393.87. That rule covers warning flags on projecting loads, so review it along with your state's requirements for your specific load.
What is the difference between a Wide Load and an Oversize Load sign?
The wording follows the type of load and the rules for the state you are in. Many of the banners here are reversible, with "Wide Load" on one side and "Oversize Load" on the other, so one banner can cover either message.
Which flag style is right for my truck?
Dowel flags suit flag holders and trailer hardware. Wire rod and bungee flags suit other setups, magnets work on steel surfaces, and the flag with mounting kit includes its own bracket. Match the style to what is already on your vehicle.
Do I need a pilot car or permit for my load?
That depends on the dimensions and weight of the load and the states you run through. Contact the state DOT or your permit service for the current rules.
Where can I find other vehicle and driver supplies?
Browse Vehicle Safety Supplies, Driver Accessories, and Log Books & Inspection Reports, or contact our team to help match supplies to your loads.
