Yes! The size of the commodity being transported will determine if the truck driver should have signs and/or lights on their tractor and/or trailer. Typically, drivers are required to use red flags and amber lights so they are visible to others around them. If pilot cars are escorting an oversize shipment then they are required to have flags and/or lights as well. Markings on the truck drivers equipment and/or pilot cars is required by the Department of Transportation of that state in which the load is being transported.

 In the majority of the United States any shipment 12 feet wide or under will not require escorts unless DOT requires them to due to construction, detours, etc. Depending on the state, if your shipment is over 12 feet in width, escorts, will most likely be required. For instance, one state may only require a front or rear escort where other states may require both. The cost for escorts varies from one company to the other and is rated on a per mile basis; however, that rate is transportation cost only and does not include hotels, detention, etc. From what I have seen, most escort or pilot car companies will charge anywhere from $1.30 to $3.25 per mile based upon the situation and number of pilot cars involved.