
Obtaining oversize load permits can be a complex process, but there are ways to make it easier.
First, you need to determine what type of permit you need. There are two types: non-divisible load permits and divisible load permits. Non-divisible load permits are required for loads that cannot be broken down into smaller pieces, while divisible load permits are required for loads that can be broken down.
The process of obtaining a permit typically starts with submitting an application to the relevant state or local transportation agency. This application must include detailed information about the load, such as its dimensions, weight, and route.
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Do I Need a Permit?
If you're planning to transport an oversize or overweight load, you'll need to determine if you need a permit. This depends on whether your vehicle exceeds legal dimensions or weight.
You'll need a permit if your vehicle's overall height exceeds 13'6" or overall width exceeds 8'6".
If your trailer's length exceeds 53', you'll also need a permit. The same applies if your overall weight exceeds 80,000 pounds.
Here are the legal dimensions to keep in mind:
- 8’6” wide, 14’ tall, 53’ length (tractor/trailer)
- 40’ single unit
- 75’ overall with a truck and trailer
- 3’ of front overhang and 15’ of rear overhang.
Permit Requirements
To legally transport an oversize load, you'll need to obtain a temporary oversize load permit. This permit is required for commercial vehicles that exceed certain dimensions or weights.
In the U.S. and Canada, an oversize load is typically defined as a load that exceeds 13'6" or 14'0" in height, 8'6" in width, or varies by state and province in length. You'll also need a permit if your load weighs more than 80,000 pounds in some states.
To obtain a permit, you'll need to provide detailed information about your vehicle and load, including the USDOT number, unit number, vehicle info, and load dimensions.
Here's a quick rundown of the key information you'll need to provide:
What Information for Permits?
To get an overweight or oversize permit, you'll need to gather a bunch of information about your vehicle and load.
You'll need your USDOT number or Federal ID number, which is a unique identifier for your business. You'll also need the unit number, vehicle info including year, make, and model, and the serial number of your vehicle.
Your license plate number and state, as well as the type of vehicle (flatbed, lowboy, drop deck, etc.), will also be required. Additionally, you'll need to know the number of axles on your vehicle and the trailer length.
You'll also need to provide a detailed description of your load, including the number of pieces and how they're loaded. The load dimensions (length, width, height, and weight) are also crucial.
Other important details include the overall width (trailer or load – whichever is wider), overall height (from ground to top of load), and overall length (truck + trailer and/or load – whichever is longer). You'll also need to provide the overall weight (truck + trailer + load) and individual axle weight when loaded (truck + trailer).
You'll also need to provide exact origin and destination addresses, as well as complete routes, including city streets, separated by state.
Intriguing read: How Should You Transport a Load on a Flatbed Trailer
Permit Fee Calculator
The Permit Fee Calculator is a valuable tool for estimating the cost of overweight permits. It's a must-use for anyone hauling an oversize load.
The calculator takes into account the vehicle's weight and dimensions to provide an accurate estimate. If your vehicle exceeds the legal limits of 80,000 pounds, 53' long, 13½' high, and 8½' wide, you'll need to use the calculator to determine the permit fee.
Our team can assist with obtaining the necessary permits, including county, city, or town permits. We'll get the oversize permit you need in just an hour or two.
The calculator is a convenient resource for quickly determining the permit fee cost. It's a time-saver for busy individuals and companies who need to plan their routes and budgets accordingly.
Over-Weight/Over-Dimensional Permitting
Over-Weight/Over-Dimensional Permitting is a complex process, but don't worry, I've got you covered. You can SELF-ISSUE trip permits using the Permit Application System (PAS) for loads up to 16 feet wide, 18 feet high, 150 long and 200,000 pounds.
Self-issuing permits is a great option, but there are some limitations. For example, nighttime travel requests that exceed certain dimensions, such as 12 feet wide, 14 feet 6 inches high, or 105 feet in overall length, still require approval.
Some types of permits that require approval include farm implement permits and manufactured housing permits that exceed allowances on the manufactured home transport routes.
Superloads with dimensions more than 16 feet wide, 16 feet high, 125 feet load length, or exceeding 200,000 pounds also require special permits.
A fresh viewpoint: Wide Load vs Oversize Load
Simplify the Process
You don't have to navigate the complex world of oversize load permits alone. WCS Permits & Pilot Cars can help you get the permits you need in just an hour or two.
Their team can assist with obtaining secondary permits such as county, city or town permits.
With their online oversize load permit portal, you can quickly order permits and view current permits and permit history.
You can even download their Permit Portal app to receive instant text message notifications when an oversize load permit becomes available.
Each oversize load permit is delivered with any required permit attachments.
To get an oversize load permit, you'll need to consider the load's dimensions and weight. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
These regulations can be complex, but WCS Permits & Pilot Cars can help you navigate them.
Permit Types
If you're planning to transport an oversize load, you'll need to obtain the right permit. There are several types of permits available, each with its own set of requirements and restrictions.
A Single Trip Permit is required for loads that exceed 8'-6" wide, 14'-0" high, and 80,000 pounds. This permit is typically issued for a single trip.
For loads that are up to 12'-0" wide, 14'-0" high, and have a Kingpin to Rear Axle (KPRA) of 40'-0" maximum, an Annual Permit is required. Travel on red routes is prohibited with this permit.
Repetitive Permit is required for loads up to 12'-0" wide, 14'-6" high, and 90'-0" long. This permit is designed for frequent trips.
If you're transporting sea containers on state highways near the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach, you'll need a Sea Container Permit. This permit is for 4-Axle tractors and 3-Axle trailers with a maximum Overall Length (OAL) of 65'-0" and a KPRA of 40'-0" maximum.
Vehicles that exceed 15'-0" wide, 17'-0" high, and 135'-0" long, or special hauling equipment that exceeds the Department's standard method of weight classification, require a Variance Permit.
Finally, Motorsport Permit is required for vehicles going to an Automobile Competition Committee for the United States (ACCUS) sanctioned event at one of the locations currently authorized per vehicle code.
Pilot and Escort Vehicle
To transport an oversize load, you'll need to find a pilot/escort vehicle and operator who meets the requirements.
You can learn about these requirements by researching pilot/escort vehicle and operator requirements.
Finding a qualified pilot/escort vehicle and operator is crucial for a safe and successful transport.
Check the partner certification programs to ensure the pilot/escort vehicle and operator have the necessary training and expertise.
For another approach, see: Abnormal Load Transport
State-Specific Information
If you're planning to transport an oversize load across state lines, you'll need to research the specific regulations for each state you'll be passing through.
In the state of California, for example, you'll need to apply for a permit at least 72 hours in advance.
In Texas, oversize loads are allowed on certain highways, but you'll need to use an escort vehicle if you're carrying a load that exceeds 14 feet in width.
In Florida, loads exceeding 10 feet in width must be accompanied by a police escort.
In New York, oversize loads are restricted from traveling on certain highways, including the New York State Thruway.
In Illinois, you'll need to apply for a permit at least 7 days in advance for loads exceeding 10 feet in width.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are oversize restrictions in VA?
In Virginia, oversize restrictions limit vehicles to 8'6" wide, 13'6" high, 65' long, and 80,000 pounds. Exceeding these limits requires a special permit.
Sources
- https://www.kellerpermits.com/permits/overweight-oversize-permits
- https://wcspermits.com/oversize-load-permits/
- https://dot.ca.gov/programs/traffic-operations/transportation-permits
- https://www.fdot.gov/maintenance/owodpermits.shtm
- https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/commercial-vehicles/commercial-vehicle-permits
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