Final answer:
The minimum points of contact needed on an oversized load depend on the specific situation and regulations set by authorities like the Department of Transportation. However, a common practice is to use a minimum of four points of contact to ensure stability and distribute the weight evenly.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of oversized loads, the minimum points of contact needed to distribute the weight evenly depend on the specific situation and regulations set by authorities like the Department of Transportation.
However, a common practice is to use a minimum of four points of contact, such as wheel or axle supports, to ensure stability and prevent excessive weight on any individual contact point.
Having more points of contact helps to better distribute the load and reduces the risk of damage to the load or the transport vehicle.
For example, when shipping containers on trucks or trailers, each corner of the container usually has a twist lock, which serves as a point of contact.