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Our Team

Have a logistics challenge on your hands? We’re ready for it. Our team

uses a versatile, tailored approach to transportation and project

management. We have what it takes.

Meet Our Leadership Team

Dave Demuth

President and Owner

What drew Dave Demuth to the logistics business? The variety of work and never-ending opportunities to meet people. And with over 30 years in transportation and logistics, those reasons still ring true! Dave shows up day in and day out excited to work alongside his employees and guide Ascent Specialized to greater heights.

“Live every day by the Golden Rule.”

Dan Schefers

General Manager

With over 24 years in the industry, Dan has been involved in nearly all aspects of specialized transportation. This experience, combined with his finance degree, provides Dan a unique perspective on what’s possible in the logistics business. Dan enjoys working with and supporting customers in an industry that presents many challenges.

“I love leading a team that makes even the complicated seem simple.”

Luke Sweeter

Operations Manager

With nearly a decade of experience managing operations within the transportation/logistics industry, Luke has learned a thing or two about what it takes to keep things moving while remaining focused on safety, efficiency, compliance, and speed. Luke may be a man of few words, but he’ll always ensure the job gets done.

“Why Specialized? Because every day is different.”

Eric Demuth

Heavy Haul Manager

Eric approaches every day ready to take on the challenge of getting complex cargo where it needs to go. With over 15 years of experience, there is no load he cannot handle.

“The heavier,the better”.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Flatbed LTL?

When a shipment does not require full use of the flatbed trailer and can be shipped with other commodities for a discounted price and expanded transit window. Contact us and we will evaluate your shipment and let you know what options are available to you.

What is considered "legal" cargo?

Generally speaking, cargo with dimensions under 53′ long, 8’6” wide and with an overall height (includes height of the trailer) of 13’6″ in the eastern US and 14′ high in the western US, are considered “legal” shipments.

When does a load qualify as over-dimensional?
When the dimensions and/or weight exceeds the legal limits and is “non-divisible”, it is considered over-dimensional.
What does "non-divisible" mean?
The shipment must be broken down to its smallest possible size in order to ship. Rule of thumb here is that if it takes more than eight working hours to disassemble — or if disassembly will affect the integrity of the cargo — it can be shipped in its current state.
How much do permits cost?
The answer is: it varies. Each state determines the cost of permits based on mileage, weight, dimensions, route, etc. We estimate permit costs during the quoting stages, and whenever we are working on an over-dimensional load, we will keep you as informed as possible regarding the costs involved with your shipment.
How long does it take to get permits?
Typically, 1-3 days for over-dimensional loads that are not considered “super loads”.
How much time do you need to plan an over-dimensional shipment?
For shipments with cargo dimensions under 12′ wide or high, we like to have 1-3 business days notice prior to your desired pick up date/time. Shipments that exceed these dimensions or are overweight/over length, we might need 2-3 weeks or more. When/if you are unsure of the restrictions of your cargo, reach out to us right away so we can assess the information and give you options.
What is "Heavy Haul"?
Heavy haul is considered anything over gross weight of 80,000 lbs, including the weight of the tractor, trailer and cargo. We also consider heavy haul to be anything over length or over 12′ wide or 12′ high. Typically once you reach these dimensions there are more requirements and rules, such as possible pilot cars, police escorts, etc. Another thing we take into consideration for heavy haul shipments is the experience the trucker has, not just anyone can handle shipments when they get to these sizes and larger.
What is a "Super Load"?
When the cargo exceeds the dimensions of a state’s “routine” permit limits and is “non-divisible”. These permits can sometimes take 3-4 weeks to obtain and may require route surveys, engineering surveys of bridges, etc. Keep in mind, a state could deem a load that is just 14′ wide or 85,000 lbs to be a super load.
How do I know what kind of trailer to ask for?
Give us a call! We’re happy to help you navigate through the process and will be as thorough as possible so that you understand what is happening from start to finish.
Have more questions?
Don’t hesitate, reach out to us today. We pride ourselves on our communication, honesty and transparency. We will spare no details, good, bad or indifferent.