
In Pennsylvania, oversized loads are subject to specific regulations to ensure safe transportation on state roads.
Pennsylvania defines an oversize load as a vehicle or combination of vehicles with a gross weight of 80,000 pounds or more, or a vehicle or combination of vehicles with a length of 53 feet or more.
To obtain a permit for an oversize load in Pennsylvania, you'll need to provide detailed information about the load, including its dimensions, weight, and route.
Pennsylvania Oversize Load Regulations
Pennsylvania has specific regulations for oversize loads to ensure safe transportation on its roads. The maximum length of an oversize load in Pennsylvania is 70 feet.
To transport an oversize load in Pennsylvania, you'll need to acquire the right permit. The cost of these permits varies, but you can call (877) 792-5056 to get the information you need.
Pennsylvania has strict limits on the width of oversize loads, which cannot exceed 8′ 6 feet. The maximum height is also limited to 13′ 6 feet.

Weight is another critical factor in Pennsylvania's oversize load regulations. The maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) is 80,000 pounds. You'll also need to consider the overhang, which cannot exceed 4 feet in the front and 6 feet off the rear.
If you're transporting a superload in Pennsylvania, you'll need to meet specific requirements. A superload is defined as a load with a gross weight over 201,000 pounds, a length over 160 feet, or a width over 16 feet. The height of a superload depends on the route you're taking.
To request an overweight or oversize permit in Pennsylvania, you'll need to provide detailed information about your load. This includes your USDOT number, unit number, vehicle information, and load dimensions, among other details.
Here's a breakdown of the information you'll need to provide:
- USDOT number/Federal ID number
- Unit number
- Vehicle info (year, make & model)
- Serial number
- License plate number and state
- Type (Flatbed, lowboy, drop deck, etc.)
- Number of axles
- Trailer length
- Load description
- Number of pieces and how they are loaded
- Load Dimensions (length, width, height and weight)
- Overall width (trailer or load – whichever is wider)
- Overall height (from ground to top of load)
- Overall length (truck + trailer and/or load – whichever is longer)
- Overall weight (truck + trailer + load)
- Individual axle weight when loaded (truck + trailer)
- Individual axle spacings (truck + trailer)
- Exact origin (address or junction, city & state)
- Exact destination (address or junction, city & state)
- Complete routes, including city streets, separated by state
Load Definitions
A non-divisible load or vehicle is any load or vehicle that exceeds applicable length or weight limits and cannot be separated into smaller loads or vehicles without compromising its intended use, destroying its value, or requiring more than eight work hours to dismantle.
For your interest: Oversize Load En Español

If a load or vehicle is deemed non-divisible, the applicant for a non-divisible load permit must provide proof of the number of work hours required to dismantle it.
A non-divisible load or vehicle can be defined by the following characteristics: it compromises the intended use of the vehicle, destroys the value of the load or vehicle, or requires more than eight work hours to dismantle using appropriate equipment.
Here is a breakdown of what makes a load or vehicle non-divisible:
- Compromises the intended use of the vehicle
- Destroys the value of the load or vehicle
- Requires more than eight work hours to dismantle using appropriate equipment
An oversize/overweight vehicle, on the other hand, is defined as any vehicle that exceeds specific dimensions or weight limits, including:
- Any vehicle in excess of 80,000 pounds gross weight
- Any vehicle in excess of 13' 6" in height
- Any vehicle in excess of 8' 6" in width
- Any vehicle in excess of 75' in length
- Any vehicle whose dimensions include any combination of the above
Divisible vs. Non-Divisible Loads
A vehicle that weighs over 100,000 lbs. is considered a non-divisible load. The PA Turnpike has specific rules for such loads, and they can't enter the turnpike if they don't meet the federal definition of non-divisible.
The PTC only issues overweight/over-dimensional permits for non-divisible vehicles and loads. This means that if a vehicle and load are divisible, they can't get a permit for the PA Turnpike.
Non-divisible loads are typically large or heavy items that can't be broken down into smaller parts. A good example of this would be a large construction machine or a heavy piece of equipment.
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Definition of Non-Divisible Load/Vehicle

A non-divisible load or vehicle is a load or vehicle that exceeds applicable length or weight limits. This means it's too big or heavy to be safely transported in one piece.
If a load or vehicle is too large or heavy, it can't be separated into smaller loads or vehicles without compromising its intended use. This might happen if the load or vehicle is a specialized piece of equipment, like a crane or a generator.
The value of the load or vehicle would also be destroyed if it were to be separated. For example, if you're transporting a large machine that's been custom-built for a specific purpose, separating it into smaller parts would make it unusable for that purpose.
To determine if a load or vehicle is non-divisible, the applicant for a permit has the burden of proof. They must show that it would take more than eight work hours to dismantle the load using appropriate equipment.
Here are the three conditions that determine if a load or vehicle is non-divisible:
- It would compromise the intended use of the vehicle.
- It would destroy the value of the load or vehicle.
- It would require more than eight work hours to dismantle using appropriate equipment.
Definition of Oversize Vehicle

An oversize vehicle is defined by specific measurements and weight limits.
A vehicle is considered oversize if it exceeds 80,000 pounds in gross weight.
The PA Turnpike has strict regulations for oversize vehicles, and it's essential to understand what constitutes an oversize vehicle to avoid any issues.
Any vehicle over 13 feet 6 inches in height is considered oversize.
A vehicle that is over 8 feet 6 inches in width is also considered oversize.
If a vehicle is over 75 feet in length, it's considered oversize as well.
A vehicle that exceeds any of these dimensions, including height, width, or length, is considered oversize.
Here's a summary of the oversize vehicle dimensions:
Permit Requirements
If you're planning to transport an oversized load in Pennsylvania, you'll need to obtain a special hauling permit. A permit is required if your vehicle's dimensions exceed any of the following: length, weight, axle weight, height, or width.
To apply for a permit, you must submit your application online at least 24 hours in advance of your intended hauling time. Note that permit requests received after 3 pm will be reviewed the next business day.

If your vehicle exceeds certain dimensions, you'll need to consider the following restrictions:
- Vehicles over 100,000 pounds will be denied, unless divisible.
- Vehicles over 85 feet in length require a special hauling permit.
- Vehicles over 13'6" in height require a special hauling permit, except on specific routes where the maximum height is 14'.
- Vehicles over 10'0" in width require a special hauling permit, except on specific routes where the maximum width is 14'.
Here are the specific permit requirements:
Remember to also consider escort requirements, which vary depending on the size of your vehicle. If your vehicle is over 11' in total width or 75' in length, you'll need one escort vehicle. If your vehicle exceeds both width and length, you'll need two escort vehicles.
Permit Types and Limits
If you're planning to transport an oversize load in Pennsylvania, you'll need to obtain a special hauling permit. A permit is required if the vehicle's dimensions exceed any of the following: length of 85 feet, weight of 100,000 lbs, axle weight of 22,400 lbs, height of 13'6", or width of 10'0" to a max of 11'6".
To apply for 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. The application process can be found in Example 4.
The cost of a single trip oversize permit in Pennsylvania is $36, while a single trip oversize and overweight permit costs $36 plus $0.04 ton per mile. This information can be found in Example 2.
Here are the maximum weight limits for different types of permits in Pennsylvania:
Note that some areas in Pennsylvania have exceptions to these limits, such as the PA Turnpike 576, 43, 66 and I-376, where the maximum height is 14' and the maximum width is 14'.
Fees and Costs
To navigate the fees and costs associated with Pennsylvania's oversize load regulations, let's break it down. The permit fee for a single trip oversize permit in Pennsylvania is $36.
In some cases, you may need a permit for both oversize and overweight loads, which will cost $36 plus $0.04 per ton per mile. This can add up quickly, so be sure to factor it into your budget.

If you're planning to make multiple trips within the City of York, you'll need to pay a $50 permit fee per movement, plus an additional $0.50 for every 1,000 pounds over 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.
The permit itself is only valid for five calendar days after issuance, so be sure to plan accordingly.
If you're a frequent visitor to the City of York, you may want to consider a blanket permit, which costs $125 per power unit (truck or tractor) per year. This can save you money in the long run, especially if you make multiple trips within the city.
Pennsylvania Load Limits
Pennsylvania Load Limits are strict to ensure safe transportation on the state's roads. The maximum length of a load is 70 feet.
To avoid fines, oversized and overweight loads must be accompanied by shipping permits. The costs of these permits vary, but you can call (877) 792-5056 to acquire the right permit for your shipment.

The maximum width of a load is 8′ 6 feet, and the maximum height is 13′ 6 feet. This is crucial to avoid any potential hazards on the road.
Here are the maximum weight limits for different types of axle configurations in Pennsylvania:
Loads that exceed these weight limits may require special permits or arrangements.
Permits and Applications
If you're planning to transport an oversized load in Pennsylvania, you'll need to obtain a Special Hauling Permit. A permit is required if the vehicle's dimensions exceed certain limits, including length (over 85 feet), weight (over 100,000 pounds), axle weight (over 22,400 pounds), height (over 13'6"), and width (over 10'0").
To apply for a permit, you'll need to submit your application online, as faxed applications are no longer accepted. Your application must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of your intended hauling time.
Here are the specific requirements you'll need to provide:
- USDOT number/Federal ID number
- Unit number
- Vehicle info (year, make & model)
- Serial number
- License plate number and state
- Type (Flatbed, lowboy, drop deck, etc.)
- Number of axles
- Trailer length
- Load description
- Number of pieces and how they are loaded
- Load Dimensions (length, width, height and weight)
- Overall width (trailer or load – whichever is wider)
- Overall height (from ground to top of load)
- Overall length (truck + trailer and/or load – whichever is longer)
- Overall weight (truck + trailer + load)
- Individual axle weight when loaded (truck + trailer)
- Individual axle spacings (truck + trailer)
- Exact origin (address or junction, city & state)
- Exact destination (address or junction, city & state)
- Complete routes, including city streets, separated by state
Note that some states may ask for additional information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the widest load without a permit?
In most states, a load can be up to 15 feet wide without a special permit. However, regulations vary by state, so it's always best to check local requirements.
Sources
- https://www.paturnpike.com/commercial/permits-restrictions
- https://wideloadshipping.com/pennsylvania-state-shipping-regulations/
- https://wcspermits.com/pennsylvania-oversize-load-permits/
- https://www.kellerpermits.com/permits/overweight-oversize-permits/pennsylvania
- https://www.yorkcity.org/city-services/departments/public-works/oversized-vehicles/oversized-vehicles-2/
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