Alaska Shipping Regulations

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2020 Alaska DOT shipping laws, rules, regulations for oversize and heavy haul trucking.

Alaska shipping regulations for oversize and overweight trucking and DOT permit information.

The great state of Alaska official seal.

Share your knowledge with others below.!

Heavy haul trucking, pilot cars and permits.

Locate heavy haul, oversize equipment shipping companies, pilot cars and ordering trucking permits in Alaska:

 

Legal load limits.

Length:  53’ Trailer Length
Width:  8’6”
Height: 14’
Weight: Depending on route 80,000 lbs GVW.
Overhang: 3’ in the front, 4’ in the rear.

Kenworth double trailers in compliance with 80,000 pounds GVW laws.

Alaska requires any shipment over the weight of 80,000 pounds to have a special trip permit.

Routine trucking permits.

Trucking oversize and overweight permit limits:

Length: Shipping varies due to routing and season.
Width: Shipping rules vary depending on route and seaason.
Height: Over 14′ and once again everything varies depending on routing and season.
Weight: Single; 30,000 lbs, tandem; 56,000 lbs, tridem; 70,000 lbs, quadem 80,000 lbs, gross weight; 150,000 lbs. Depends on the route you wish to travel, distance and the bridges you intend on crossing.
Overhang:  20′ is a safe number but once again everything up here is seasonal as roads are closed or combined with weight frost laws may be in effect and limit you.  For the most part there is no such thing as a “routing” shipment in Alaska.

Notes:  When between the months of October 1 and March 31 for 1, 2 & 3 drive axle groups on truck tractors intending to travel the Dalton, Elliott or Steese highways between Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay you can shift your legal axle weights to make them legal. The following weights on these routes apply: single; 22,000 lbs with 8′ 1″ minimum spacing between axles, tandem; 42,000 lbs, tridem; 48,000 lbs maximum.

When a pilot car is required.

Pilot car (escort vehicle) requirements:

Length: if overall length exceeds 85′ you are required to have 1 pilot car (escort). If overall length exceeds 100′ you are required to have 1 front and 1 read pilot car (escort).

Width: If 10′ to 12′ wide you will be required to have 1 pilot car (escort vehicle). If width exceeds 12′ and up to 14′ you are required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle). From 14′ to 18′ in width you will be required to have 3 pilot cars. 2 front on 4 lane and 2 rear on 2 lane roads with the additional at either end. 18′ up to 22′ in width will require 4 pilot cars (escorts); 2 in front and 2 on the rear. If over 22′ in width you will be required to “close and roll” (closing the road as you move) requiring you to have 5 pilot cars as well as a minimum of 1 police escort.

Weight: You may be required to have a pilot car/cars if you are not able to maintain the minimum speed limit and on some designated bridge crossings depending on your weight class.

Overhang: If overhang is greater than 20′ you will be required to have 1 pilot car vehicle. If over 35′ you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car.

Required shipment markings & flags.

Truck, trailer and shipment required signs, banners & flags:

For loads that are over 8′ 6″ in width you will be required to have a “OVERSIZE LOAD” banner on the front or your truck and on the rear of your truck or load, whichever is most practical. Flags must be a minimum length of 16″ and be safety orange or red in color.

Pilot car certifications & requirements.

Pilot car (escort vehicle) certifications & requirements:

A pilot car must be manufactured  as a passenger vehicle (car, truck, van, etc.) with a manufacturers weight of less than 10,000 lbs. All pilot car drivers must be wearing a safety colored vest, jacket or shirt. All pilot cars must be equipped with a rotating, strobe or flashing amber light visible from 360 degrees from a distance of no less than 500′. Vehicle must have a regulations sized hand help SLOW – STOP sign, safety colored flags of no less than 18″ in either direction, 8 road safety flares, 3 reflective road triangles, a 2-way communication device capable of transmitting at least 10 miles and a type A, B and C fire extinguisher.

Travel times and restrictions.

Travel times and restrictions:

Approved permits are valid for 3-5 days unless otherwise stated. Travel times are from Monday through Saturday at noon during daylight hours – the one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset rule applies. However, vehicles not exceeding 85′ in length, 16’in width or 16′ in height can travel Monday through Sunday during daylight hours only. Travel is NOT permitted on the following holiday weekends: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Areas of high traffic densities are restricted from 7:00-8 AM and 4:30-6:00 PM in certain areas (refer to your permit for documentation). Movement is NOT permitted on Kalifornsky Beach Rd, Kenai Spur highway or the Sterling highway from 6:45-9:00 AM and 2:15-4:30 PM during the school months for shipments in excess of 14′ in width. Ketchikan has restricted movement from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM and from 12 noon – 1 PM and from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM.  Glenn and Parks Highways to Palmer and Wasilla between the hours of 6:00-8:00 AM and from 11:30-1:00 PM and from 4:30 until 6:00 PM if over 14′ in width.

Frost and thaw laws.

Frost and thaw laws:

Frost and thaw laws are in effect usually from March 1 until mid June on major routes, southern central and the interior. There are so many roads that have different regulations on thaw laws and frost laws. You absolutely will want to call the Alaska State DOT office at the number below for more information. Example: A particular highway may have a set of regulations until you reach a certain mile post, then after that has a whole different set of regulations. There are hundreds of them similar.

Alaska DOT & information.

Alaska state DOT trucking permit contact information:

Division of Measurement Standards Phones:  907-365-1200 or below within Alaska.
Commercial Vehicle Customer Service Center: 800-478-7636
Huffman Business Park
11900 Industrial Way
Anchorage, AK  99515

Phone help line: 907-365-1200
Toll free within Alaska: 800-478-7636
Fax: 907-365-1204
Permit office hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
PACIFIC STANDARD TIME

Alaska state DOT website with all kinds of permit info, forms, manuals, etc here. Alaska heavy-haul and oversize trucking laws.
Road closures and highway conditions here.
Alaska road closure information.

Cities in Alaska: Adak, Akhiok, Akiachak, Akiak, Akutan, Alakanuk, Alatna, Alcan Border, Aleknagik, Aleneva, Allakaket, Alpine, Ambler, Anaktuvuk Pass, Anchorage municipality, Anchor Point, Anderson, Angoon, Aniak, Anvik, Arctic Village, Atka, Atmautluak, Atqasuk, Attu Station, Barrow, Bear Creek, Beaver, Beluga, Bethel, Bettles, Big Delta, Big Lake, Birch Creek, Brevig Mission, Buckland, Buffalo Soapstone, Butte, Cantwell, Central, Chalkyitsik, Chase, Chefornak, Chenega, Chevak, Chickaloon, Chicken, Chignik, Chignik Lagoon, Chignik Lake, Chiniak, Chisana, Chistochina, Chitina, Chuathbaluk, Circle, Clam Gulch, Clark’s Point, Coffman Cove, Cohoe, Cold Bay, Coldfoot, College, Cooper Landing, Copper Center, Copperville, Cordova, Covenant Life, Craig, Crooked Creek, Crown Point, Cube Cove, Deering, Delta Junction, Deltana, Diamond Ridge, Dillingham, Diomede, Dot Lake, Dot Lake Village, Dry Creek, Eagle, Eagle Village, Edna Bay, Eek, Egegik, Eielson AFB, Ekwok, Elfin Cove, Elim, Emmonak, Ester, Evansville, Excursion Inlet, Fairbanks, False Pass, Farm Loop, Ferry, Fishhook, Flat, Fort Greely, Fort Yukon, Four Mile Road, Fox, Fox River, Fritz Creek, Funny River, Gakona, Galena, Gambell, Game Creek, Gateway, Glacier View, Glennallen, Golovin, Goodnews Bay, Grayling, Gulkana, Gustavus, Haines, Halibut Cove, Happy Valley, Harding-Birch Lakes, Healy, Healy Lake, Hobart Bay, Hollis, Holy Cross, Homer, Hoonah, Hooper Bay, Hope, Houston, Hughes, Huslia, Hydaburg, Hyder, Igiugig, Iliamna, Ivanof Bay, Juneau city and borough, Kachemak, Kake, Kaktovik, Kalifornsky, Kaltag, Karluk, Kasaan, Kasigluk, Kasilof, Kenai, Kenny Lake, Ketchikan, Kiana, King Cove, King Salmon, Kipnuk, Kivalina, Klawock, Klukwan, Knik-Fairview, Knik River, Kobuk, Kodiak, Kodiak Station, Kokhanok, Koliganek, Kongiganak, Kotlik, Kotzebue, Koyuk, Koyukuk, Kupreanof, Kwethluk, Kwigillingok, Lake Louise, Lake Minchumina, Lakes, Larsen Bay, Lazy Mountain, Levelock, Lime Village, Livengood, Lowell Point, Lower Kalskag, Lutak, McCarthy, McGrath, McKinley Park, Manley Hot Springs, Manokotak, Marshall, Meadow Lakes, Mekoryuk, Mendeltna, Mentasta Lake, Metlakatla, Meyers Chuck, Miller Landing, Minto, Moose Creek, Moose Pass, Mosquito Lake, Mountain Village, Mud Bay, Naknek, Nanwalek, Napakiak, Napaskiak, Naukati Bay, Nelchina, Nelson Lagoon, Nenana, New Allakaket, Newhalen, New Stuyahok, Newtok, Nightmute, Nikiski, Nikolaevsk, Nikolai, Nikolski, Ninilchik, Noatak, Nome, Nondalton, Noorvik, North Pole, Northway, Northway Junction, Northway Village, Nuiqsut, Nulato, Nunapitchuk, Old Harbor, Oscarville, Ouzinkie, Palmer, Paxson, Pedro Bay, Pelican, Perryville, Petersburg, Petersville, Pilot Point, Pilot Station, Pitkas Point, Platinum, Pleasant Valley, Point Baker, Point Hope, Point Lay, Point MacKenzie, Pope-Vannoy Landing, Portage Creek, Port Alexander, Port Alsworth, Port Clarence, Port Graham, Port Heiden, Port Lions, Port Protection, Primrose, Prudhoe Bay, Quinhagak, Rampart, Red Devil, Red Dog Mine, Ridgeway, Ruby, Russian Mission, St. George, St. Mary’s, St. Michael, St. Paul, Salamatof, Salcha, Sand Point, Savoonga, Saxman, Scammon Bay, Selawik, Seldovia, Seldovia Village, Seward, Shageluk, Shaktoolik, Sheldon Point (Nunam Iqua), Shishmaref, Shungnak, Silver Springs, Sitka city and borough, Skagway, Skwentna, Slana, Sleetmute, Soldotna, South Naknek, Stebbins, Sterling, Stevens Village, Stony River, Sunrise, Susitna, Sutton-Alpine, Takotna, Talkeetna, Tanacross, Tanaina, Tanana, Tatitlek, Tazlina, Teller, Tenakee Springs, Tetlin, Thoms Place, Thorne Bay, Togiak, Tok, Toksook Bay, Tolsona, Tonsina, Trapper Creek, Tuluksak, Tuntutuliak, Tununak, Twin Hills, Two Rivers, Tyonek, Ugashik, Unalakleet, Unalaska, Upper Kalskag, Valdez, Venetie, Wainwright, Wales, Wasilla, Whale Pass, White Mountain, Whitestone Logging Camp, Whittier, Willow, Willow Creek, Wiseman, Womens Bay, Wrangell, Y, Yakutat.

Additional information:

Heavy haul and oversize trucking permit limitations.

Maximum weights; on a single axle with dual tires 30,000 pounds. With tandem axles 56,000 pounds, with tridem axles 70,000 pounds, with quadem axles 80,000 pounds. Gross maximum is 150,000 pounds. All of this depends entirely on the route you choose to travel as well as distance and any bridges that you intend to cross. It also depends upon the length, height and width of the shipment. Between the months of October 1st and March 31st for one, two and three drive axle groupings on trucks and truck tractors traveling the Elliott, Steese and Dalton highways between Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay you can shift legal axle weights in the following weights on these routes in applicable: single axles 22,000 pounds (with 8’1″ minimum axle spacing). Tandem axles 42,000 pounds, tridem axles 48,000 pounds. The maximum height allowed is 15’3″. Shipments over 14 feet wide or 150 feet long or 16’6″ in height must supply to the permitting department the exact route they wish to travel.

Heavy haul and oversize truck signs and flags.

A standard oversize load sign is required on the front of the tractor and the rear of the shipment if it exceeds 8’6″ and width. The sign must be yellow and have a minimum of 48 inches in width with black letters that are 10 inches tall and 2 inches wide. Acceptable signs when specified shall read “oversize”, “oversize load” or “wide load” for over width vehicles and/or shipments “oversize”, “oversize load” or “long load” for over length vehicles must be affixed to the rear of shipment when overall load exceeds 60 feet in length. Vehicles and loads with rear overhang exceeding 10 feet are subject to the following: must have “oversize” or “oversize load” signs and a amber high intensity rotating, flashing, oscillating or strobe type beacon which must be visible for a minimum of 500 feet from the end of the shipment. You must have either an extended light-bar or a rear pilot car or escort vehicle. All flags must be a minimum of 16” square and must be red. Flags are required to be on vehicles with loads wider than 10 feet and if overhang exceeds the legal limits in any direction.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements.

If the width of the shipment is over 10’6″ and up to 12 feet one pilot car or escort vehicle is required. For lengths over 85 feet and up to 100 feet one pilot car is required. If overhang is greater than 10 feet but less than 20 feet one pilot car or escort vehicle may be used. It is possible to use an extended lightbar and place of a rear pilot car. Heavy haul or overweight shipments with special bridge conditions are required to have two pilot cars if the width is 12 feet up to 14 feet to pilot cars or escort vehicles are required if the length is greater than 100 feet to escort vehicles or pilot cars are required. If the overhang exceeds 20 feet unless the rear is greater than 35 feet or the front greater than 60 feet one pilot car is required. For widths over 14 feet three pilot car vehicles or escort’s are required: two in the front and one in the rear. If you have overhang from the rear that is greater than 35 feet to pilot cars are required and for widths up to 18 feet but not more than 22 feet 4 pilot cars or escort vehicles are required. If road closures exist and you are an excess of 22 feet wide then you will be required to have 5 escorts or pilot cars. You may be permitted to use an extended light-bar when up to 20 feet of rear overhang and lieu of a rear pilot car.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements.

Pilot cars and escort vehicles may be passenger trucks and cars as long is they are under 10,000 pounds in total weight. Pilot cars and escort vehicles must carry commercial vehicle insurance. Pilot cars and escort vehicles will not carry any passengers. Pilot cars and escort vehicles will not act as a steer man or a tiller man for any load. Oversize load signs and beacons: all escort vehicles and pilot cars are required to be equipped with the appropriate signage. Depending upon the shipment you are working with this might be oversize, wide load or long load and the sign must be roof mounted with a high intensity rotating flashing oscillating or strobe type amber beacon light which must be visible from a minimum of 500 feet in any direction. When a pilot car or in escort vehicle is required to lead any oversize load the appropriate sign must be faced towards the front of the pilot car or escort vehicle when the pilot car or escort is chasing a load the appropriate sign must be faced towards the rear of the vehicle. Pilot car companies and escort vehicle drivers shall carry the following items and equipment at all times when escorting heavy haul and oversize loads: a 24 inch stop slow paddle sign, three bidirectional emergency reflective triangles, 15 pound rated B and C fire extinguisher, a reflector rise orange vest shirt or jacket, a first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, a red cone and be equipped with a red hand flag.

Flag men or flag persons.

The state of Alaska does not require a pilot car or escort vehicle operator to have certification to perform flagging functions flaggers and or pilot car or escort vehicles operators shall complete the state approved flagging test as well is any necessary training prior to working in the capacity of a flagger. There is a fee for the online class. Flag persons shall not be less than 18 years of age and must be capable of carrying out flagging responsibilities in accordance with the Alaska state traffic manual regulations flaggers must be wearing high visibility or florescent orange jackets and vest as well as equipped with a slow stop paddle and a red hand flag these items must be utilized by the pilot car company or escort vehicle operator in the event that it becomes necessary. If required pilot car and escort vehicle operators will need to pull over and Park in order to stop or control Highway traffic. At no time shall the slow stop paddle or red flags be displayed out of the window of a moving vehicle.

Travel time for heavy haul and oversize loads.

Heavy haul permits and oversize trucking permits are valid for 3 to 5 days unless otherwise specified. Travel is permitted from Monday through Saturday at noon during daylight hours. One half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset. However, vehicles that are not exceeding 10’6″ wide or 16 feet tall or 85 feet and linked total may travel Monday through Saturday during daylight hours. Oversize vehicles are allowed to operate during hours of darkness under special lighting and taping requirements. Travel is permitted on the following holiday weekends memorial day for for July and Labor Day. Urban areas do restrict travel during peak hours be sure to refer to your permit for specific travel times especially in urban areas.

Spring weight and frost laws.

Weight restrictions and frost laws usually occur on all major routes in South, Central as well as interior Alaska. Typical months are from March 1st until the 1st July.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Alaska State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.
Alaska DOT

Alaska DOT

 

Alaska state rules and regulations.

2019 Alaska state shipping regulations.

 
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2020 Frost winter frost laws, thaw laws and weight restrictions.

By on June 22, 2020   /   Frost law restrictions.   /   6 Comments
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2020-2021 Frost laws, thaw laws and seasonal weight restrictions.

Frost/thaw damages to surface.

Frost/thaw damages to surface.

Learn the details of the winter frost laws, spring thaw laws and seasonal weight restrictions. Details for the USA and Canada by State/Province. Many areas incorporate temporary special weight limits and restrictions (frost or thaw laws) during the winter and spring months of the year. These temporary restrictions are usually referred to as “frost laws” or “thaw laws” and implemented typically during the month or March and April. In some Northern States and Provinces frost laws can still be in effect in July as it’s much colder in the North. Since these restrictions are implemented on a “as needed” basis it is possible many of the official government websites may not have published this temporary restriction in a convenient place as frost laws are also subject to change at any moment based on the temperature of the roads core. You want to be certain to check with the appropriate officials to verify the latest changes in the laws.

2020-2021 United States: Restrictions on winter and spring seasonal weight laws.

Idaho   Iowa   Maine   Michigan   Minnesota    Montana   Nevada    New Hampshire    New York   North Dakota  Pennsylvania    South Dakota    Vermont   Washington    Wisconsin    Wyoming

2020-2021 Canada: Restrictions on winter and spring seasonal weight laws.

Alberta   British Columbia   Manitoba   New Brunswick New Foundland & Labrador  Nova Scotia  Nunavut  Ontario    Prince Edward Island   Quebec    Saskatchewan

Why we have these laws and must protect our roads and highways.

In order to keep the trucking industry operating the Northern US states and Canadian provinces rely on engineers and scientific data to determine which dates frost laws will be in effect. With fairly recent advances in science and technology, data is much more reliable. This helps with the implementation of “Frost Laws” or “Seasonal Weight Restrictions” ensuring they are not implemented to early or late. While no State or Province desires to delay the transportation of goods through their territory it is imperative public assets are protected.

In areas that constantly get negative (ie: -10 below zero) temperatures the amount of damages has forced Northern US States as well as Canadian Provinces to create and enact laws that restrict vehicle weights during the spring and winter months (specifically trucking companies) when the roads and bridges are thawing out. There are all kinds of things that can go wrong with different types of roads and pavements. For example the State of Michigan has implemented permanent frost laws that go into effect during the months of March through May (and in some cases even June). Some routes require legal axle weight limits be decreased by as much as 35%. Some areas and local governments may also limit heavy-haul vehicle speeds to a maximum of 35 miles per hour during frost/thaw law months regardless of posted limits.

One of many examples is in Southern Oregon on old US Highway 1 (which follows the coast line from Mexico to Canada) the road is as much as 16 feet thick as years of pavement (even bricks) has been laid down year after year since the early 1900’s. It should be noted that today’s technology is able to provide us with roads that are flexible due to the engineering of the construction process and the materials used. Excessive weight exerted by overloaded axles (or a weakened supporting base) can cause the pavement to bend or deform. The strength of the road combined with its resistance to bending determines the amount of weight the roadway can handle.

 

See also:

Tire chain laws.
Tire chain laws by location.
Trucking regulations.
Federal bridge formula.
Exemptions from seasonal restrictions.

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Michigan State Shipping Regulations

By on May 11, 2020   /   Lights, flags and signs., Oversize trucking permits, pilot-cars, State DOT trucking permit offices., USA shipping regulations.   /   6 Comments
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2020 Michigan state DOT shipping laws, rules, regulations and limitations for oversize and heavy-haul trucking.

Michigan

The great state of Michigan official seal.

Help others by sharing your knowledge of Michigan state regulations below.

Michigan oversize permits, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars.

Locate oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars:

Michigan oversize, heavy-haul and pilot car companies for hire.
Michigan oversize and heavy-haul trucking companies for hire.
Michigan oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Michigan maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required:

Length: Overall no longer than 75 feet on designated highways.  Trailer length maximum is 50 feet on non-designated and 53 feet on designated.
Width:  96 inches on non designated highways and 102 inches (8 feet 6 inches.) on designated.
Height: 13 feet 6 inches tall.
Weight: 80,000 pounds GVW, 20,000 pounds on single axles (not steer), 34,000 pounds on tandem axles.
Overhang: 3 feet in the front and anything over 4 feet in the rear must be red flagged in the day and have a red light at night.
Notes:  There’s no restriction on maximum length of combination of truck-tractor and semitrailer with or without load

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Michigan:

Length: Under 150 feet in length.  Anything over 150 feet is classified as a superload (105 feet maximum for mobile homes).
Width: Figure up to 16 feet as a routine permit.  Anything over is going to looked at seriously and they may even classify you as superload.
Height: Up to 15 feet is routine.  If you are over 15 feet high count on needing a route survey.
Weight:  All weights in excess of 80,000 pounds over all are decided on a case by case basis. Anything over 150,000 lbs is subject to a bridge weight study.
Overhang: Any shipment in excess of 4 feet of overhang is permitted on a case by case basis only.
Notes: Maximum speed for any permitted shipment is 45 MPH. Permits for heavy shipments may take more than 10 days to process.

Michigan superloads.

Information about shipping superloads in the state of Michigan.

If your shipment is in excess of any of the following weights or dimensions it may be classified as a superload.

Length: Anything over 150 feet.
Width: 16 feet or over.
Height: 15 feet and over is classified as a superload. Some limited routes may vary.
Notes: We have no weight maximums to report. Height may be on a case by case basis.

Lights, safety flags and warning signs for heavy haul and oversize loads.

Required safety markings, safety flags, warning lights for heavy haul and oversize loads:

All oversize load shipments will be required to display 2 “Oversize Load” signs. On must be mounted to the bumper of the truck and the other to the rear of the trailer. Signs must be a minimum of 7 feet in width and 18 inches in height with 10 inch black letters on a yellow background. Flags are required on all 4 corners of the combination and be safety red or orange in color and be 18 inches square. If the item being shipped has dimensions extending beyond the trailer then the extremities must be flagged as well. Headlights must be on at all times. A minimum of 2 flashing of strobing lights must be mounted to the rear portion of the load.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

Length: 90 feet to 100 feet one on the rear. Over 100 feet requires a rear pilot car or “chase” escort vehicle.
Width: Loads over 12 wide on 4 lane is required one rear escort/pilot car. A lead or front pilot car is required for loads on 2 lane highway over 12 feet wide.  Front and rear pilot cars/escorts are required for loads over 14 feet wide.
Height: Over 14 feet and 5 inches is required to have a pilot car equipped with a height pole. Over 15 feet in height will require a rear chase escort vehicle in addition to 1 lead pilot car equipped with a height pole.
Overhang: If over 15 feet 1 rear escort is required.
Weight: If truck can maintain minimum speeds no pilot cars are required unless excessive or superload.
Note: Allow 1 to 10 days for permits to be approved. Distance for pilot car to lead/chase load 500′ unless otherwise stated on permit. This is the distance between lead/chase and the truck/trailer. Maximum speeds of 45 MPH if 4 or more lanes, 35 MPH is under 4 lanes. Also read travel restrictions below.

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

Pilot car or escort vehicle mandatory operator certifications and vehicle requirements:

In order to qualify as a pilot car vehicle in the state of Michigan you must either have a pickup truck or a passenger car with at least one rotating or flashing amber light mounted on the top of the vehicle. Pilot cars and escort vehicles must also display one oversize load sign that is 5′ x 1′ tall and have black letters no less than 8 inches tall on a yellow background. All flashing, stroking or rotating amber lights must be visible from a distance of no less than 500 feet. In addition to this we strongly suggest pilot cars and escort vehicles have the minimum of federally suggested equipment.

See: Pilot_Car_Escort_Best_Practices_Guidelines_508CLN

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

Travel time is sunrise to sunset daylight only with the half hour before sunrise and a half hour after sunset leniency rule.  No weekend travel.  No holiday travel or the day after Christmas or Thanksgiving. They have rush hours rules from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in a whole list of counties (look on permit). Wind restrictions if over 24 MPH you can’t run. Frost and thaw laws in effect from Feb. until April on weight. You can view holiday restrictions.Lindemeyer, Transport, LLC.

Michigan DOT contact information, notes and resources.

Michigan DOT contact information:

Physical address:
Michigan Department of Transportation – DOT, Permits Unit
425 West Ottowa Street
Lansing, MI  48909
Email: click here for e-mail contact form on state website.
Telephone: 517-241-8999
Hours: Monday thru Friday 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM (closed from 12 until 1:00 PM)
Eastern Standard Time
Michigan is a member of MVCSHTO.

Very helpful documents:
Michigan Farmer’s Transportation Guide
Shipping mobile homes in Michigan
Michigan superloads – route surveys
Oversize-weight-permits-maximums
Michigan maximum dimensions

Michigan full breakdown of laws:

Michigan cities we service:

Helpful information

  • Alaska state rules and regulations.
    Alaska Shipping Regulations
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  • Illinois State Shipping Regulations for oversize and heavy haul.
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  • Oklahoma State Shipping Regulations
    Oklahoma State Shipping Regulations
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  • COVID-19
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  • Idaho frost law restrictions.
    Idaho frost law restrictions.
    2020 Idaho winter frost/spring thaw laws and seasonal weight restrictions. During the spring months when warmer temperatures cause the road surface to break up and generally deteriorate, the highways most affected are restricted to lower axle weights and speed restrictions. The District will sign and mark affected state highways the...
The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Michigan State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.
Michigan state DOT regulations for heavy haul and oversize loads.

Michigan state flag.

 
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2020 Nevada State Shipping Regulations

By on May 11, 2020   /   Lights, flags and signs., Oversize trucking permits, pilot-cars, State DOT trucking permit offices., USA shipping regulations.   /   3 Comments
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2020 Nevada state shipping laws, regulations, rules, limitations for oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

Nevada

The great state of Nevada state seal.

Please share your knowledge of Nevada state shipping regulations with other visitors below.

Locate oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars.

Nevada oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars for hire:

Nevada pilot cars and truck escorts.
Nevada oversize and heavy-haul trucking companies.


Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Nevada maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required:

Length: 75 feet maximum overall. Maximum trailer length is 53 feet.
Width: 8 feet 6 inches.
Height: 14 feet.
Weight: GVW 80,000 pounds. Single axle 20,000 pounds, tandem axles 34,000 pounds, tridem axles 42,000 pounds. Steer axle maximums require some math obviously. Here’s what the NVDOT says about it: “The maximum weight per tire, measured by pounds per inch of tire width, is 600 pounds per inch for the steering axle and 500 pounds per inch for all other axles, not to exceed the axle rating”. We say good luck with that, 12,400 pounds average???
Overhang: The maximum overhang allowed is 10 feet which overall must NOT exceed the maximum length of 75 feet.

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in NV:

Length: There really isn’t any routine maximum length. It all depends on proposed route and the state. After 105 feet in length it can get complicated.
Width: 17 feet. However some routes are restricted, see notes below;
Height: 16 feet.
Weight: Single axles 20,000 pounds, tandem axles 46,725 pounds, tridem axles 58,000 (to 59,000 see below) pounds. Determined by bridge formula, desired route, tire size and axle spacings especially for singles, tandems, tridums and quadem axles. Gross weights are: 5 axles 92,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum axle spacings, 6 axles 96,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axle spacings, 7 axles 101,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axles spacings, 8 axles 106,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axles spacings.
Overhang: No more than 15’ combined total but you want to check with them to make absolute sure as routing can effect this limit.
Notes: For weight restrictions Nevada has different routes marked. Choose the map you need for the entire state, western, eastern and southern restricted areas. You can also view a list. For purple, orange and green areas. Also, restrictions for width and weight are in effect on the following routes: route map, route list. Also note to get the extra 1,000 pounds as noted above (59,000 pounds on tridem configurations) you are allowed to use up to 2 tridem configurations only. Any additional tridem axle configurations will max out at 51,000 pounds. If you have tridem configurations on your tractor that will be counted as 1 of the 2. However, the distance between the steer axle and the center tridum axle must be a minimum of 18 feet. It is possible to to exceed this within reason but is reviewed case by case by the NVDOT permitting office.

Nevada superloads.

Requirements for extra-heavy or over-dimensional (superloads) in NV:

Nevada is picky about weights and heights. Rather than attempting to illustrate a list of items that may not apply we suggest if your shipment does not fall within the set maximums listed above it’s more than likely going to be considered a superload by NVDOT. The permitting process for superloads is different than the normal oversize or over-weight trucking permits in Nevada and must be fully drafted by the company or person requesting the permit. For instructions for the format your super-load application must be in see: Nevada-superloads.

NOTE: any special purpose or special needs loads that are outside of the normal permitting parameters will classify as a superload.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions:

Remember to refer to your actual permit for travel times and restrictions. For Nevada daylight travel hours are defined as one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset with some restrictions;  under 12 feet wide, 110 feet long or 15 feet tall may also travel during night hours and on weekends as long as you are not on I-80 between Sparks, NV and the CA state border or on I-15 between Las Vegas and the CA state border. There are no weekday curfews for any cities and if your load is under 12 feet wide, 100 feet long or 15 feet tall you may travel on holiday. However, if your load is in excess of these dimensions  holiday travel restrictions are on the following days: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. If a large event is predicted to create dense traffic they may restrict that date as well, ie: state fairs, etc.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanied by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

QUICK REFERENCE

Length:

  • over 105 feet in length requires on escort. This applies to both 2 lane and 4 lanes roads.

Width:

2 lane roads:

  • 12 feet requires 1 pilot car or escort.
  • 14 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort.
  • 16 feet requires 3 total pilot cars and escort vehicles.
  • 17 feet will require a review which will probably require 1 pilot car and 1 escort and 1 police escort.

4 lane roads:

  • 14 feet requires 1 pilot car or escort.
  • 16 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort.
  • 17 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort and 1 police escort.

Height:

  • if over 16 feet and 6 inches in height you will be required to have 1 pilot car equipped with a height pole.

DETAILED REFERENCE

Length: If shipment is over 110 feet in length you are required to have 1 pilot car behind the shipment.
Width: If your shipment is over 12′ wide on up to a 3 lane road you are required to have 1 escort vehicle in the front of your shipment. If over 14′ wide on up to a 3 lane road you are required to have 1 escort in the front and 1 pilot car in the rear of the load.  If over 14′ wide on a 4 lane road you are required to have 1 rear escort. If over 16′ you are required to have 1 front pilot car and 1 rear escort on 4 lane and all other roads.
Height: Loads that are in excess of 15′ 6″ are required to have a front high pole pilot car at all times.
Weight: Pilot cars and escorts are usually not required on shipments over weight that are able to maintain the minimum posted speed requirements. If you are not able to maintain minimum speeds you will be required to have a minimum of a rear escort vehicle if travelling in urban and some rural areas.
Overhang: If in excess of 25 feet you will be required to have a minimum of 1 pilot car.
Notes: Some routes are completely restricot car.ted. If in the Hoover dam vicinity shipments are not permitted for anything over 10 feet in width but if 10 feet will require 1 pilot car and 1 escort.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements, certifications.

In order to operate a pilot car or escort vehicle in the state of Nevada you are required to have a minimum of the following:

First of all the state of Nevada requires that all pilot and escort vehicles be certified. If you are officially certified by another state then this is recognized by the state of Nevada as valid certification and you may operate within the state however, in order to have an amber light mounted to ANY vehicle you must first obtain a permit from the state which costs $2.00 per vehicle, per year. You can do that online by clicking here.
A pilot car or an escort vehicle is required to be equipped with a strobing or flashing amber light that is visible from a distance of no less than 500′ in daylight and from all 360 degree angles, mounted to the roof and above signs. The light must be a minimum of 50 candle power and if it is a rotating light must have a lens of no less than 5″ in diameter with a flash count or not less than 50 per minute. Any vehicle used for this purpose must be no less than 60″ in width, with a wheelbase of a minimum of 95″ with no more than 2 axles and a manufacturer’s gross weight of no more than 16,000 pounds.
Each vehicle must be equipped with a two way radio that is in constant contact with/to all parties involved in the shipment, 5 pound (minimum) fire extinguisher, 3 bi-directional 18″ road triangles, 1 stop/slow sign with 5′ pole handle, 1 hard hat, 1 reflective safety vest, a copy of the ANSI/ISEA manual which can be ordered online here for $30. Drivers must be a minimum of 18 years of age, have a valid drivers license, and must be flagger/flagman “capable or carrying out flagging responsibilities” (we strongly suggest a flagger safety class) of controlling traffic, wearing a approved safety yellow-green safety jacket or vest and equipped with a red flag and a stop/slow paddle of no less than 18″. Each vehicle should be equipped with proper signs that specify “oversize”,  “oversize load” or “wideload” as well as “long load” with black letters a minimum of 10″ in height with a letter thickness of no less than 1 5/8″ on a yellow background which are removed or covered while not in work transit mode. Pilot car and escort vehicles must have a placard on each side of the vehicle with the companies name and phone number clearly visible from a distance of no less than 50′.
Operators of pilot cars and escort vehicles will maintain a reasonable distance from the shipment which all depends on weather, traffic, road conditions and the speed you are travelling with reasonable distance defined by how much time it takes for the shipment driver to recognize your indications to stop, slow or pass as necessary.

Shipment, truck and trailer markings.

Truck, trailer and shipment required signs, banners and flags:

All trucking companies that are hauling oversize and overweight shipments must have a amber colored strobing or flashing light affixed to the top of the tractor trailer cab that is visible 360 degrees from a minimum distance of 500′. Signs that state the nature of the shipment; “oversize load” or “wideload” signs in the overall front and rear of the shipment. Signs will be no less than 7′ in width and 18″ in height with black lettering no less than 10″ in height with a lettering thickness of no less than 1 5/8″ thick on a yellow background. Signs must be mounted securely and free of any dirt or debris. Warning flags are to be used only in daylight hours and must be florescent orange in color with a minimum size distance of 18″ from one corner to the next corner and be placed at the outer most corners of the shipment as well as on any protrusions. IF the shipment is permitted to travel during night hours must have 2 constant display amber lights placed at the very most front extreme of the shipment,  two amber steady burning lights on the outer (side) center of the shipment and two red steady lit lights on the outer most rear of the shipment. THIS INCLUDES OVER-WEIGHT LOADS MOVING AT NIGHT.

Frost laws and restrictions for Nevada state.

Frost and thaw laws for Nevada:

Nevada is fairly elusive on frost and thaw law travel restrictions. They do provide a map but there is not much detail on it as far as the exact roads that must be travelled. You can view the frost law map or view this thaw law material published by the state DOT which does reference it as well. Then they also have some basic  shipment route information that references it as well for the state of Nevada.

Nevada DOT and permit contact information.

Physical address and contact information:
Nevada Department of Transportation
1263 South Stewart Street. Room 102
Carson City, NV  89712
Telephone help line: 775-888-7410 or 800-552-2127
Permit office hours: 7:30 AM – 4:45 PM (no permits after 4 PM) Pacific Time Zone
E-mail: overdimensionalpermitsoffice@dot.state.nv.us

Resources:
Order Nevada heavy haul and oversize trucking permits.
Nevada oversize and heavy-haul trucking laws.

Nevada oversize and heavy-haul shipment.

Nevada cities serviced.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Nevada State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.
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nevada-state

 
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2020 – Federal Bridge Formula Weights Explanation.

By on May 11, 2020   /   USA shipping regulations.   /   1 Comment
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2020 Easy – Federal Bridge Formula weights explanation.

The Federal Bridge Formula explanation.

Heavy-haul truck drivers should know exactly how to calculate the Federal Bridge Formula. Below is a very simple explanation to ensure compliance.

Explaining the maximum weight any combined set of axles on a truck and trailer can carry to cross a bridge on the Interstate highway system.  The following Federal bridge formula is used for calculating acceptable weights:

W=500 [ LN/N-1 + 12N + 36]

W= the overall gross weight on any group of two or more consecutive axles the the nearest 500 pounds.

L= the distance in feet between the outer axles of any group of two or more consecutive axles.

N= the number of axles in the group that are under consideration.

How do I determine Bridge Formula?

THIS IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE: Bridge formula is 30 times the wheelbase* in centimeters plus 18,000 kg.

*Wheelbase in the above Bridge Formula calculation refers to the maximum axles span (center of the first axle to the center of the last axle of any axle group) in a heavy commercial vehicle.

Axle spacing is another consideration that must be taken into account when looking at the Federal weight compliance laws.  In order to properly protect our bridges the number and the spacing of truck and trailer axles carrying the shipment must be calculated.  So a bridge weight formula applies when the gross weight on 2 or more consecutive axles exceeds the limitations on the formula, except that the 2 consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry a gross weight load of 34,000 pounds each if the overall distance between the 1st and last axle is  over a 36 feet minimum.

Exceptions to the Bridge Weight Formula:

There are exceptions.  Federal law does include an exception to the Federal Bridge Formula and the bridge table. 2 consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry 34,000 pounds each IF the overall distance between the first axle and last axles of these tandems is 36 feet or greater.  For example:  a 5 axle tractor semi trailer combination may carry 34,000 pounds of weight both on the tractor tandem (axles 2 and 3) and the trailer tandem (axles 4 and 5), provided the axles 2 and 5 are spaced at least 36 feet from each other.  Without this exception the bridge formula would allow for actual weight of only 66,000 pounds to 67,000 pounds on tandems spaced 36 feet to 38 feet apart. (References: U. S. Department of Transportation – Federal Highway Administration “Federal Bridge Formula Weights” – FWHA-FBFWHA-FBFF the .pdf)

Note:  In addition to the above formula weights Federal law says that a single axle is limited to a maximum of no greater than 20,000 pounds and that axles that are closer than 96 inches from each other are limited to a maximum weight of 34,000 pounds.  Also that gross vehicle weight be less than 80,000 pounds.

Federal law (23 U.S.C. 127) does include an exception to the Federal Bridge Formula and the Bridge Table—two consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry 34,000 lbs. pounds each if the overall distance between the first and last axles of the tandem axles is 36 feet or more. For example; a five-axle tractor and semitrailer combination may carry 34,000 lbs. pounds both on the tractor tandem (axles 2 and 3) and the trailer tandem (axles 4 and 5), if axles number 2 and 5 are spaced at least 36 feet apart. Without this exception the Federal Bridge Formula would allow an actual weight of only 66,000 pounds up to 67,500 pounds on tandems spaced 36 to 38 feet apart.

2020 Federal Bridge Weight Chart

2
axles		3
axles		4
axles		5
axles		6
axles		7
axles		8
axles		9
axles
Less than 8’3″34,00034,000
More than 8’4″38,00042,000
939,00042,500
1040,00043,500
1144,000
1245,00050,000
1345,00050,500
1446,50051,500
1547,00052,000
1648,00052,50058,000
1748,50053,50058,500
1849,50054,00059,000
1950,50054,50060,000
2051,00055,50060,50066,000
2151,50056,00061,00066,500
2252,50056,50061,50067,000
2353,00057,50062,50068,000
2454,00058,00063,00068,50074,000
2554,50058,50063,50069,00074,500
2655,50059,50064,00069,50075,000
2756,00060,00065,00070,00075,500
2857,00060,50065,50071,00076,50082,000
2957,50061,50066,00071,50077,00082,500
3058,50062,00066,50072,00077,50083,000
31
59,00062,50067,50072,50078,00083,500
3260,00063,50068,00073,00078,50084,50090,000
3364,00068,50074,00079,00085,00090,500
3464,50069,00074,50080,00085,50091,000
3565,50070,00075,00080,50086,00091,500
3666,00070,50075,50081,00086,50092,000
3766,50071,00076,00081,50087,00093,000
3867,50071,50077,00082,00087,50093,500
3968,00072,50077,50083,50088,50094,000
4068,50073,00078,00084,00089,00094,500
4169,50073,50078,50084,50089,50095,000
4270,00074,00079,00084,50090,00095,500
4370,50075,00080,00085,00090,50096,000
4471,50075,50080,50085,50091,00096,500
4572,00076,00081,00086,00091,50097,500
4672,50076,50081,50087,00092,50098,000
4773,50077,50082,00087,50093,00098,500
4874,00078,00083,00088,00093,50099,000
4974,50078,50083,50088,50094,00099,500
5075,50079,00084,00089,00094,500100,000
5176,00080,00084,50089,50095,000100,500
5276,50080,50085,00090,50095,500101,000
5377,50081,00086,00091,00096,500101,500
5478,00081,50086,50091,50097,000102,000
5578,50082,50087,00092,00097,500102,500
5679,50083,00087,50092,50098,000103,000
5780,00083,50088,00093,00098,500104,000
58
84,00089,00094,00099,000104,500
59
85,00089,50094,50099,500105,000
60
85,50090,00095,000100,500105,500
 
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2020 British Columbia shipping regulations

By  on May 11, 2020 	

  /   Canada Shipping Regulations., Canada trucking permit offices - government., Oversize trucking permits, pilot-cars    /   30 Comments
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 
2020 British Columbia DOT shipping regulations. Laws, regulations, rules and limitations for oversize or heavy-haul trucking.
British Columbia DOT regulations for oversize shipping.
British Columbia. The official Coat of Arms.
Please share your knowledge with our other visitors below.
Heavy-haul trucking & pilot car directory.

Locate trucking companies and pilot cars in British Columbia:
British Columbia heavy-haul trucking company directory.

British Columbia pilot car/truck escort company directory.
 
Legal load limits.

British Columbia legal load limits:
Length:  14.65 meters (48.06′) from the kingpin to the rear most portion of the trailer. No combinations in length over 23 meters (75.45′) overall without a permit. A 53 foot semi-trailer is allowed provided the lift axle is raised.

Width: No shipment may travel if in excess of 2.6 meters in width (without a permit) unless it is a shipment of hay which is limited to 3.1 meters (122″) or rear view mirrors which are limited to 30 cm (11.81 inches)on each side, additional auxiliary devices are allowed 30 cm (11.81 inches) and tires are allowed an additional 10 cm.

Height: No shipment may travel if larger than 4.15 meters (163″) in height without a permit.

Weight: Single axle: 9,100 kg (20,062 lbs) and the same for tandem and tridum axles. A tridem pole trailer: gross weight on any two adjacent axles in a tridum axle group must not exceed 17,000 kg (37,478 lbs). The maximum licensed gross vehicle weight of a vehicle or combination of vehicles must not exceed 63,500 kg* (139,994 lbs) without a permit (see; en B.C Regulation 95/2006, s. 3.)* THIS AMOUNT SEEMS EXCESSIVE. THIS IS THE NUMBER OUR RESEARCH PRODUCED. See; reference link below in “notes” under “maximum gross weight”. See also “comments” at bottom.

Notes: Not matter what a permit states if there is a sign posted on a highway or road that contradicts your permit the sign will take precedence over the permit so you must immediately stop traveling and get clarification. Section reference: Copyright Queens Printer Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

Overhang: 1m in front and .061 – which seems a little odd to us as the rear maximum seems short. Please contact the BC DOT to verify.
Routine trucking permits.

Oversize and overweight trucking permits that are routinely issued by the British Columbia DOT routinely:
Length: 27.5 meters (90 feet, 2 and 43/64 fourths on an inch) in the maximum length for a routine permit in B. C.

Width: 4.4 meters (14 feet, 5 and 15/64 fourths of an inch) is the maximum with you will get from BC DOT on a routine permit.

Height: There is no number provided. The British Columbia DOT permit office wants to assess every load that is over height based on intended routing.

Weight: This is the same as height. They will not give you a solid number for routine. We are going to suggest 63,500 kg (134,994 lbs) since we had trouble locating what we feel was a reasonable maximum limit above for “legal loads limits”. we sure welcome your comments below.

Overhang: 6.5 meters (21 feet, 3 and 29/32 seconds of an inch) for routine permits for overhang.
NOTES: If your shipment is oversize AND overweight you will be required to have two separate permits. Oversize loads are required to have safety flags no less than 16″ x 16″ (46.64 cm) square and be red in color.
Superload information- extraordinary loads.

British Columbia superload information:
Superloads in British Columbia or “extraordinary loads” are defined by the DOT any shipment that is in excess of 85,000 kilograms GVW in weight, 4.4 meters (14 feet, 5 and 15/64ths of an inch) in width, 4.88 meters (16 feet and 1/8th inches) in overall height. Depending on your route you may not be classified as a “Superload” as the British Columbia DOT has  pre-approved designated routes. You can find more (limited) information on super or extraordinary loads here.
Permitted travel times & restrictions.

British Columbia DOT travel times and restrictions for oversize and overweight trucking:
The rule of daylight is defined as 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset in B. C. No travel is allowed after 2 PM on Friday until 12:01 AM on Monday for any load in excess of 3.8 meters (12′ 6″) in width. If your shipment is over 3.5 meters (11′ 6″) in width you are only allowed to travel during daylight hours only with the exception of the Peace River region. For holiday travel restrictions you may not travel after 2 PM on the day before the holiday and after 12:01 on the day after the holiday. Holidays are New Years day, Provincial day, Good Friday, Victoria day, Canada day, Family day, Labour day, Thanksgiving day, Remembrance day, Christmas day and Boxing day.
When pilot cars are required.

British Columbia DOT requires a pilot car (escort vehicle) to accompany your shipment if you are in excess of any of the following dimensions or weights:
Length: For shipments in excess of 27.5 meters (90′) in length you will be required to have 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle) on all roads. For shipments over 27.5 meters (90′) in length 1 front pilot car/escort and 1 rear pilot car/escort is required.

Width: Shipments in excess of 3.5 meters (11′ 6″) wide you will be required to have 1 front pilot car on two lane roads or 1 rear pilot car/escort on multiple lane roads. In some cases a beacon light may be substituted. In many cases night travel is granted at 304.8 cm (10′ wide). If granted night travel you may be required to have 1 pilot car/escort in the front if your shipment is over 3.2 meters (10′ 5 and 63/64 fourths of an inch”) in width. Shipments that are over 3.5 meters (11′ 5 and 51/64 fourths of an inch”) wide up to 4.4 meters (14′ 5 and 15/64 fourths of an inch) require 1 front pilot car/escort vehicle. Shipments that are over 3.5 meters (11′ 5 and 51/64 fourths of an inch”) wide are permitted to travel at night only.

Height: Depending on your route the BC DOT permit office will determine if you are required to have a pilot car/escort vehicle.

Weight: Weight is on a case by case basis. As long as your shipment can maintain the minimum required speed limit you will probably not be required to have a pilot car/escort by the British Columbia DOT permits office.

Overhang: If you are have more than 6.5 meters (21′ 3 and 29/32 seconds of an inch) of overhang you will be required to have 1 rear pilot car/escort.
Pilot car certifications.

Pilot car (escort vehicle) certifications and requirements for operating in British Columbia:
Pilot car/escort vehicle operators at this time are only required to: 1.) have a valid drivers license and 2.) be over 18 years of age.  We are getting reports that a certification program is in the works but at the time of this update (March 2, 2014) these above 3 requirements are all that is needed to operate a “pilot car” or “escort vehicle” within the Province of British Columbia (see comments below for more information). Also see; British Columbia Pilot Cars laws. Your vehicle is required to have a lighted sign box that is a minimum of 180 cm x 35 cm x 10 cm (72″ x 14″ x 4″),  have 2 – flashing lights mounted on the top of the sign box on each side with 2 amber strobe or rotating lights a minimum of 203 mm (8″) mounted between the flashing lights on top of the box as well.
The minimum acceptable size for a rotating amber light is 15 cm in diameter and for strobe lights 11 cm in diameter. Either type of lamp must emit light flashes in 360 degrees.
The sign box must light up and be visible from a minimum distance of 200 meters. The sign box must have either a red and white D sign or a yellow with black lettering stating “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD”,  OR “LONG LOAD”. If you have the “D” sign your letter must be no less than 20 cm (8″) in height with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. If you have the yellow sign your lettering must be no less than 20 cm (8″) with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. The sign box must be mounted on the top of the vehicle and covered when not in operation. You are also expected to have the following items inside of the vehicle: CB radio or high powered 2-way radio, first aid kit, fire extinguisher type A, B & C of at least a 2 liters, 3 reflective road triangles, 3 traffic cones, reflective vest (worn while working), slow/stop sign, 3 red or orange safety colored flags no less than 40 x 40 cm (16″ x 16″), nose cone flashlight and a hard hat.
Shipment, truck & trailer markings.

Truck, trailer and shipment required signs, banners and flags:
All trucks that are hauling oversize or overweight loads must have a strobe, flashing or rotating amber light mounted to the roof that is visible from 360 degrees at a minimum distance of 200 meters (656′). All 4 outermost corners of the overall shipment and any obtrusive points must have flags mounted to them that are safety red or orange in color no less than 40 cm x 40 cm (16″ x 16″) and have the flags exchanged for lighting if moving during the night. A sign stating the nature of the load; “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD” or “LONG LOAD” must be mounted to the front and rear of the overall shipment. Signs must be a minimum of 12″ in height and 6″ in width with a yellow background and black letting with lettering thickness no less than 4 cm (1 5/8″) thick.
British Columbia DOT & other information.

British Columbia DOT contact and other useful information:
British Columbia DOT – Central Permit Office

Telephone help line: 800-559-9688 or the have districts so click on area for phone and info.

Hours: 6 AM until 10 PM including (MOUNTAIN TIME ZONE). These offices are closed on Christmas, News Years Day and Boxing Day.
British Columbia DOT oversize and overweight permit applications online.

British Columbia DOT oversize and overweight permits manuals.

British Columbia Province road conditions and closures.

British Columbia HOS or hours of service rules and regulations -.pdf document.

British Columbia DOT spring thaw and frost laws.
The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the British Columbia Province DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

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See also:
Frost and thaw law introduction.

British Columbia frost laws.

How to start a pilot car company.

Pilot car company certification.

British Columbia road closures – traffic reports.
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2020 Washington State Shipping Regulations

By  on May 11, 2020 	

  /   Lights, flags and signs., Oversize trucking permits, pilot-cars, State DOT trucking permit offices., USA shipping regulations.    /   4 Comments
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 
2020 Washington state DOT
oversize and heavy-haul trucking laws, regulations, rules, limitations.
Washington state DOT rules and regulations for oversize and overweight trucking.
The great state of Washington official seal.
Please share your knowledge of Washington state shipping regulations with other visitors at the bottom of this page.
Washington trucking company and pilot car directory:
Washington State trucking company directory.

Washington State pilot cars and truck escorts.

Washington heavy-haul and oversize trucking permits.
Legal load limits.
Washington DOT legal load size & weight limitations: 
Length: The maximum overall length allowed legally is 75′.

Width: 8’ 6” wide.

Height: 14’ tall.

Weight: 80,000 lbs.

Overhang: 3′ in the front measured from the manufacturers front bumper and 15′ rear is the maximum and measured from the center of the rear axle.
Routine trucking permits.
Routine heavy haul, oversize shipping, trucking and transport permits:
Length: No set limits other than travel times. Case by case basis for routine maximums.

Width: 2 lane, 14′ or less, multi-lane roads with barrier strip 16′

Height:  16′ (note anything over 14′ will be required a pilot car w/height pole).

Weight: Single axle 22,000 lbs, tandem 34,000 lbs, tridum 55,000 lbs, quadem 70,000 lbs, gross weight on 5 axles 99,200 lbs, 6 axles 108,200 lbs, 8 axles 156,000 lbs.  These weights are limitations and totally dependent upon federal bridge formula.  Superload is 200,000 lbs. Also tire weight on all axles – 600 pounds per inch tire width.

Overhang: 3′ in the front and 15′ in the rear – also read in “legal loads” above.
NOTE: Non-divisible loads can not be made smaller or lighter. Exception: Dozers have have blade detached and sitting on trailer. No multiple blades. Loaders may have bucket detached as long as it is a pertinent piece for the loader being transported. No multiple buckets allowed.
Superload information.
Information on superloads for the state of Washington:
Superloads are classified as vehicles or loads that are non-divisible (or a combination of the two) that weigh in excess of 200,000 lbs or over 16′ in height or over 16′ in width in Washington state. A superload application must be submitted 30 days prior if your shipment exceeds the weight maximum or 7 days if exceeding the height or width maximums. You will need to document why it is in the best interest of the people of Washington state to grant you permission to perform the move, show that it can not be reduced in any way reasonable, have a mechanical drawing of the truck, trailer and shipment showing all of the axle positions, why you can’t perform the shipment via water, have an iron clad route in mind, a detailed plan for controlling traffic, how you plan to use your pilot cars, show that you are aware of all railroad route time tables if performing any crossings, and have a way to prove that any kind of emergency vehicle at any time can easily get past you. If you have all of this together then the Washington DOT will take a look at it and may even charge you for their time. Superloads in Washington should be completely handled by a professional or you may loose time and money. If you need assistance please see our consultation section as we have staff that specialize in superload shipments.
Legal truck travel times.
Travel times and restrictions in Washington:
7 days a week.  One half hour before sunrise and one half hour after sunset is permitted.  No movement after 3 pm on Fridays, Sunday and only travel until 12 noon.  Holiday travel is not permitted on the following holidays: New Years day, Memorial day, Labor day, Thanksgiving, Independence day and Christmas day.   If the holiday is on a Saturday or a Sunday there will be no Friday or Monday travel permitted.  The Washington State permit office is closed on the above holidays in addition to Martin Luther Kings day, Presidents day and Veterans day however travel is not restricted on these holidays as well as Columbus day and George Washington’s birthday.  Night travel is permitted for shipments that are under 12′ wide, 14′ 6″ in height and 105′ overall in length.  Overweight only loads that do NOT exceed any of the legal maximums in width, height or length are permitted to travel 24/7 as long as the tractor can maintain the minimum rated speed limit for that particular road or highway.
Notes:  There are travel restriction times during heavy traffic hours for Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Everett and Vancouver.  Please call the main number above for exact times or refer to the documentation on the permit that is issued.
When are pilot cars required.
Pilot car and escort vehicle information:
Length: If load is over 105′ in length you will be required to have 1 rear pilot car (escort).

Width: If over 11′ in width you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort).

Height: If height of load exceeds 14′ 6″ a front high pole pilot car (escort vehicle) is required.

Weight: If this is your only exceeded limit NO pilot car/escort vehicle is required as long as tractor can maintain minimum road speeds.

Overhang: No set limits, case by case basis.
Required pilot car and escort vehicle certifications.
Pilot car and escort vehicle certification and equipment requirements:
Pilot car or escort vehicles may be a car, truck of SUV as long as it has a gross vehicle maximum rating at least 14,000 pounds and a wheelbase of at least 60″ in width.  Headlights must be on at all times while escorting shipment. Each vehicle must be equipped with 2 amber lights on top of the vehicle and horizontally mounted rotating (or strobe) amber colored flashing light which must be visible from a 360 degree angle from a minimum of 500 feet.  Company identification signs must be placed on both sides of the pilot car (escort vehicle) displaying the name of the company, phone number and be placed on both the left and right hand sides of the vehicle. These signs must be no less that 8″ tall x 12″ wide and identity writing must be plainly legible. Vehicles must be equipped with a CB radio or 2-way communication device, a 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C.  A sign hand help sign with the word “STOP” on one side and “SLOW” on the other with dimensions of no less than 18″ in diameter with a minimum of 6″ letters. 3 bi-directional road safety triangles.  While operating the vehicle the driver will is required to wear a reflective safety vest, jacket or shirt.  A orange hard hard and a first aid kit must be kept in the vehicle.  A non-conductive height measuring device that is to be used while escorting loads with any height in excess of 14′ 6″ and should be set at a length of no more than 6″ above the actual height of the load and no less than 3″.  Pilot car (escort vehicle) operators are NOT allowed to carry passengers other than co-workers. Washington state escort drivers are required by law to be state certified and have a copy of their Washington State Certification ID in the vehicle at all times.  Some programs in other states may qualify the driver to operate in Washington State but you will want to verify this by calling the main office number above.    Pilot cars (escort vehicles) must keep a distance of no less than 1/2 mile from the shipment they are escorting.  If at any time ANY vehicle either the actual shipment or escorting vehicle is delayed from each other said vehicle MUST pull over and wait for the other to resume position.  All pilot cars/escort vehicles must display a roof mounted “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle.  Sign must be at least 5′ long and 12″ in height, yellow in color with black letters no less than 10″ tall and 1 1/2″ in width.  Sign must be a minimum of 5′ above the pavement.  Vehicle should  have 2 safety flags red or orange in color and be a minimum of 18″ of length and/or height mounted at a 40 to 70 degree angle on all 4 corners of the vehicle but this (the flags) are NOT mandatory at the time of this publishing.
Very heavy load being shipped.
Washington DOT information.
Contact information for Washington state DOT office:
Physical address:

State Department of Transportation

921 Lakeridge Way

PO Box 47367

Olympia, WA  98504-6340
Ports of entry:

The ports do NOT issue permits in the State of Washington.

Bow Hill: (I-5 S) 360-766-6196, Plymouth: (I-82 N) 509-734-7043, Ridgefield: (I-5 N) 360-887-8231, Spokane: (I-90 W) 509-226-3366
Email: if you know of a good one please leave it below.

Help telephone line: 360-704-6340

Fax: 360-704-6350

Hours: Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 5:o0 pm

Pacific Time Zone
Click here for the State DOT Website for oversize and over-weight hauling permits.

Click here for Washington State road & highway conditions.
Washington cities serviced.
The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Washington State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

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2020 Manitoba shipping regulations

By  on May 11, 2020 	

  /   Canada Shipping Regulations., Canada trucking permit offices - government., Oversize trucking permits, pilot-cars    /   2 Comments
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 
2020 Manitoba DOT shipping laws, regulations, rules and limitations, for oversize and heavy-haul the trucking  over the roads and highways of Manitoba Canada.
Please share your expertise of knowledge with our other visitors below.manitobacoatofa
Trucking & pilot car directory.
Locate trucking companies and pilot car companies in Manitoba, Canada.
Manitoba heavy-haul trucking companies.

Manitoba pilot cars and truck escorts.
Legal limits.
Legal load limits:
Length: The overall maximum length without a permit is 23 meters.

Width: The maximum width allowed without a permit is 2.6 meters.

Height: 4.15 meters is the maximum height allowed by Manitoba DOT without a permit.

Weight: 9,100 kg on steer (seems high to us so NOT a confirmed number –  use reference link below), tandem axles: 17,000 kgs, tridem: 17,000 kgs,  or 3 axle combination with proper spacing of a 23,700, quadem: 31,600 kgs, 5 axle: 39,500 kgs and 6 axles: 46,500 kgs. Let me refer you to our reference on this for clarification from Manitoba DOT as there are different weight classes.

Overhang: Our researchers are unable to find any information on maximum allowed legal overhang. We did find the pilot car requirements of 25 meters. We will call and update at a later time or you can call Debra Martin at: 204-326-8292 M-F 8-4 – if you do please comment below as this author is writing on a Sat. and they are closed. Thank you!
Routine oversize and heavy haul trucking permits.
Oversize and overweight trucking permits that are issued routinely by Manitoba province:
Length:  30 meters on length is about all you are going to get.

Width: 5 meters wide for routine permits depending on routing.

Height: Depending on routing as Manitoba DOT has designated routes the maximum height is 4.8 meters.

Weight: We were unable to get a solid figure. Manitoba DOT has different zones for weight restrictions so it all depends on which zone you need to travel in. See Manitoba DOT zone map.

Overhang: Based on the comment they made on 25 meters of rear overhang we are going to say that up to this amount is routine. If you need to speak to them call the number located above in “legal load limits” in the “overhang” section.
Superload information.
Manitoba DOT information on suplerloads or extra ordinary loads:
We will do more research on superloads in Manitoba in the future. The Manitoba DOT documentation does not cover or mention much about them so we will need to speak with someone on the phone. We are able to  see that they are well versed in shipping superloads as they mention in their online documentation that there will make arrangements to remove road side signs and replace them for shipments that are in excess of the road width. We will get back to this section soon but in the meantime appreciate any comments you may be able to leave for other visitors below.
Permitted travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads – restrictions.
Manitoba DOT permitted travel times and restrictions:
Daylight travel times are defined as from sunrise to sunset in Manitoba. No travel is permitted after 3 PM on Fridays during the summer months for shipments in excess of 3.4 meters (11′ 2″) wide on seasonal restricted roads. In the spring shipments in excess of 4.6 meters (15′) in width are not allowed to travel on roads during the spring restriction times. On routes that are not seasonally restricted you may proceed (multiple lane roads) until 3 PM as long as you are no wider than 3.7 meters in width (12′ 2″) on Friday and resume travel on Saturday at sunrise however if you are in excess of 25 meters in length (82′) you are not permitted to travel after 3 PM on Fridays during the summer months if you are on a seasonally restricted highway and resume on Saturday at sunrise – you are allowed however to travel on holidays. Sunday travel is permitted for loads up to 3.85 meters (12′ 7″) in width on all roads that have no seasonal restrictions. On a single lane highway on holidays you can not exceed 3.4 meters (11′ 2″) in order to travel. On multiple lane roads you can travel only if you are less than 3.7 meters (12′ 2″). This is very confusing so always refer to your permit for final verification but to help the matter lets go over the restricted routes:
  • Highway 1 from Falcon lake to the Manitoba/Ontario border.
  • Highway 6, 8, 9, 15, 16, 44, 307, 313, 317.
  • Highway 10 from the US border to Riding Mountain National Park.
  • Highway 11 but only north of highway 44.
  • Highway 12 but only north of highway 15.
  • Highway 59 from the west boundary line of Brokenhead to Grand Beach and the South perimeter of St. Malo
Here is the Manitoba link for spring road restrictions with zones to help you with interpretation. Holidays observed are: New years day, Provincial day, Good Friday, Victoria day, Canada day, Family day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day, Remembrance day, Christmas day and on Boxing day.
When pilot cars are required.
Manitoba DOT requires you to have a pilot car if your shipment is in excess of any of the following regulated limits:
Length: Shipments that are in excess of 30 meters (98′ 5″) long require 1 pilot car/escort vehicle on the rear of the shipment on all roads. For shipments that include a booster of a jeep that are over 31 meters (101′ 9″) you are required to have 1 rear pilot car vehicle on all roads.

Width: If your shipment is in excess of 4.6 meters (15′) wide then you are required to have 1 front pilot car on single lane roads and 1 rear pilot car/escort on multiple lane roads. If your load is in excess of 3.66 meters (12′) but less than 4.55 meters ( 14′ 7″) then you are permitted to travel at night as long as you have 1 front and 1 read pilot car/escort vehicle on all roads and highways. Mobile homes can travel at night on multiple lane roads as long as it does not exceed 5 meters wide (16′ 4″) but are required to have 1 pilot car on the rear.

Height: If you are approved for a shipment that is over the legal limits Manitoba DOT has designated routes and you are not required to have a pilot car.

Weight: As long as your shipment is able to maintain the minimum speed requirements you will more than likely not be required to have a pilot car as long as your shipment is overweight only.

Overhang: Overhang is approved on a case by case basis. Check with the Manitoba DOT for further information to see if your shipment will require a pilot car due to excessive overhang.
Pilot car certifications.
Manitoba DOT certifications and requirements of pilot cars (escort vehicles):
Pilot car/escort vehicle operators are required to take a Manitoba DOT certification course in order to operate in this province. The certification program is recognized by all US jurisdictions that require PEVO except for New York state. Your vehicle is required to have a lighted sign box that is a minimum of 180 cm x 35 cm x 10 cm (72″ x 14″ x 4″), 2 – 175 mm (7″) diameter flashing lights mounted on the top of the sign box on each side with 2 amber strobing or rotating lights a minimum of 203 mm (8″) mounted between the flashing lights on top of the box as well. The sign box must light up and be visible from a minimum distance of 200 meters (656′). The sign box must have either a red and white D sign or a yellow with black lettering stating “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD”,  OR “LONG LOAD”. If you have the “D” sign your letter must be no less than 20 cm (8″) in height with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. If you have the yellow sign your lettering must be no less than 20 cm (8″) with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. The sign box must be mounted on the top of the vehicle and covered when not in operation. You are also expected to have the following items inside of the vehicle: CB radio or high powered 2-way radio, first aid kit, fire extinguisher type A, B & C of at least a 2 liters, 3 reflective road triangles, 3 traffic cones, reflective vest (worn while working), slow/stop sign, 3 red or orange safety colored flags no less than 40 x 40 cm (16″ x 16″), nose cone flashlight and a hard hat.
To operate in Manitoba you must obtain a light permit. More information is available by calling: 204-985-0920
Shipment, truck and trailer markings.
Truck, trailer and shipment required signs, banners and flags in Manitoba:
All trucks that are hauling oversize or overweight loads must have a strobing, flashing or rotating amber light mounted to the roof that is visible from 360 degrees at a minimum distance of 200 meters (656′). All 4 outermost corners corners of the overall shipment and any obtrusive points must have flags mounted to them that are safety red or orange in color no less than 40 cm x 40 cm (16″ x 16″) and have the flags exchanged for lighting if moving during the night. A sign stating the nature of the load; “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD” or “LONG LOAD” must be mounted to the front and rear of the overall shipment. Signs must be a minimum of 12′ in height and 6′ in width with a yellow background and black letting with lettering thickness no less than 4 cm (1 5/8″) thick.
Manitoba DOT contact and other information.
Manitoba DOT contact and other information:
Manitoba DOT – Central Permit Office

Telephone help line, Winnipeg; 877-812-0009 or 204-945-3961 (compliance: 204-945-3890)

Fax line: 204-945-3961

Hours of service: 7:30 AM until 6 PM Monday thru Friday – CENTRAL TIME ZONE.

Manitoba DOT oversize and overweight trucking permits website.

Manitoba spring thaw road restrictions information.

Manitoba DOT axle and axle group weight definitions and restrictions.

Manitoba province current road conditions and closure information.
The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Manitoba Province DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

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See also:
Manitoba frost and thaw laws.

Frost law introduction.

Manitoba road closures and reports.

How to start a pilot car company.
 
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2020 Texas State Shipping Regulations

By  on May 11, 2020 	

  /   Lights, flags and signs., Oversize trucking permits, pilot-cars, State DOT trucking permit offices., USA shipping regulations.    /   12 Comments
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 
2020 Texas state shipping laws, rules, regulations and limitations for oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits. Pilot car requirements.
Texas oversize and overweight shipping regulations and DOT trucking permit limitations.
The great state of Texas official seal.
Texas heavy-haul trucking permit information.

Texas oversize trucking permits information.

Texas pilot car and escort vehicle requirements.
Locate oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars.
Texas oversize, heavy-haul trucking and pilot car companies for hire:
Texas pilot car company directory.

Texas heavy-haul trucking company directory.
Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.
Texas maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required:
Legal Loads:

Length: Trailer length maximum is 59 feet. Overall length is 65 feet.

Width: 8 feet and 6 inches wide max.

Height: 14 feet tall max.

Weight: 80,000 pounds overall GVW, 20,000 pounds on single axles, 34,000 pounds on tandem axles and 42,000 pounds on tridem axles.

Overhang: 4 feet in the rear and 2 feet in the front maximum.
Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.
These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Texas:
Length: up to 180 feet long or see superload section.

Width:  20 feet wide on “routine” permits (Go Texas!) however only 16 feet wide on the interstates.

Height: again Texas has it all together with the height set at 18 feet and 11 inches maximum for routine oversize trucking permits. Anything over this height is going to require a route survey.

Weight: up to 240,000 pounds for routine heavy haul trucking permits however if the shipment is in excess of 200,000 pounds with less that 95 feet of axle spacings you will have to apply for a heavy haul superload trucking permit. On single axles: 25,000 pounds. Tandem axles: 46,000 pounds. Tridum axles: 60,000 pounds and quadem axles: 63,000 pounds (confirmed May 31, 2018). 5 axles 73,260 pounds. Trunnion axles 54,000 pounds. On restricted routes: Single: 22,500 pounds, tandem: 41,400 pounds, tridum: 54,000 pounds, quad: 63,000 pounds, 5 axles 73,260 pounds, trunnion: 54,000 pounds. 5 axels gross weight 105,000, 6 axels: 119,000, 7 axles: 129,000 lbs, 8 axles depends on your axle configurations.

Overhang: Go again Texas DOT!  Front overhang is 25′ and rear overhang is 30′ in length for routine Texas oversize trucking permits.  Nice job folks!

Notes: If over 125 feet in length, 20 feet wide or 18 feet and 11 inches tall you will be required to have a route inspection. A flatbed trailer can not be used for a shipment that is considered a “wideload” and a “over-height” load. Your permit will be rejected and you will loose your payment. If a shipment has 2 different oversize dimensions (ie; long and wide or wide and tall), then it automatically will be required to have 2 pilot cars or escort vehicles.
Texas superloads.


To keep this simple any shipment that exceeds the above dimensions/weights in the “Routine” section above will more thank likely be classified as a superload shipment in the state of Texas. Superload permits issued in the state of Texas usually take at minimum 2 weeks time to be approved.
Legal travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads.
Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:
One half hour before sunrise and one half hour after sunset is considered daylight time. Night time travel is permitted in the state of Texas if the shipment is less than 100 feet long or 10 wide on the Interstate highways only. If the shipment is ONLY overweight it may travel at night on any roads.  Weekend travel is permitted.  You can travel on some holidays but there are some limits;  if the length is in excess of 110′ long, height is in excess of 16′ or width is excess of 14′ you may NOT travel on the following holidays: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day.  The Texas state DOT permit office is closed on these days as well.  Texas does have quite a few travel time curfews in high density traffic areas so be sure to refer to your permit. These typically range from 6-9 am and 3-6 pm (example only).  Each permit issued by the Texas DOT will specifically state exactly what the curfew law is. No Texas state heavy haul or oversize trucking permit is valid without the specific curfew restrictions attached to it.
Lights, safety flags and warning signs for heavy haul and oversize loads.
Required marking, safety flags, warning signs for heavy haul and oversize loads:
When transporting heavy haul and oversize loads the tractor trailer unit must have their low beam headlights turned on at all times. Any shipment that extends from either side of the actual trailer width requires red or orange florescent warning flags that are no less than 16 inches square as well as red lights/lamps. If you are transporting anything that has rear overhang in excess of 4 feet from the rear of the trailer you will be required to place two red lamps at each rear extreme corner. Red lights must be visible from a minimum distance of 500 feet. Any shipment over 8 feet and 6 inches wide will require a strobe and red lighting is addition or warning flags. Trucks must have either 1 strobing amber light with a minimum base size of 8 inches or 2 simultaneous flashing amber lights mounted on the roof of power unit. Signs must be applicable to the shipment being moved such as “oversize load”, “long load”, etc. Signs must be a minimum of 5 feet in width but no wider than 7 feet with a yellow background and black letters a minimum of 8 inches tall.
When pilot cars or escort vehciles are required.
Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:
Length: If shipment is over 110′ in length and up to 125′ you will need 1 pilot car in the rear.  Over 125′ in length requires 1 pilot car or escort vehicle in the front and 1 on the rear.

Width: Shipments 14 feet to 16 feet wide will require 1 pilot car vehicle in front on a 2 lane road and 1 on the rear on a 4 lane road.  If shipment is in excess of 16 feet, 1 front and 1 rear pilot car or escort vehicle will be required on all shipments on all roads and highways.

Height: If height of load exceeds 17′ a front high pole car is required. If the shipment is over 18′ in height you will be required to have 1 high pole and 1 rear escort.

Weight: If the shipment is able to maintain minimum speeds no escort vehicle is required.

Overhang: Front overhang up to 20 feet on some 2 land roads will require 1 pilot car or escort vehicle in the front.  On a 4 lane front overhang up to 25 feet requires 1 pilot car (escort) on the rear.  Rear overhang; over 20 feet but not more than 30 feet requires one pilot car (escort) on the rear of shipment. If over 30 feet of overhang 2 pilot cars or escort vehicles will be required and you will need to get special approval for the permit to be issued.
Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.
Pilot car or escort vehicle mandatory operator certifications and vehicle requirements:
At the date of this publish (06/20/18) there are no certifications required by the state of Texas for pilot car or escort vehicle operators. Vehicle requirements: All pilot cars/escort vehicles must display either both bumpers or 1 roof mounted “OVERSIZE LOAD” or “WIDELOAD” sign (which ever is applicable) visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle and only displayed while working. Sign must be at least 5′ long but no greater than 7′ and 12″ in height but no greater than 18″ in height, yellow in color with black letters no less than 8″ in height but no more than 10″ in height and lettering must be a minimum of 1.4″ in width.  Vehicle must be equipped with 2 horizontally mounted rotating (if rotating 8″ base is required) (or strobe) amber colored flashing or strobe light which must be visible from a 360 degree angle from a minimum of 500 feet. Vehicles must be equipped with a CB radio or 2-way communication device and be in constant communication with all parties assigned to the movement.
It is only our express opinion that pilot cars also have a minimum of the additional items but not required:  2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C, a paddle sign with the word “STOP” on one side and “SLOW” on the other with dimensions of no less than 18″ in diameter with a minimum of 6″ letters. A red safety colored flag with a handle no less than 18″ square, 3 reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, 8 burning road flares, 2 OVERSIZE LOAD banners (yellow with black lettering) and a safety colored (red, orange, yellow or lime green) vest, jacket or shirt (used while directing traffic).
Texas DOT contact information and notes.
Texas DOT office and permit contact information:
Physical address:

Texas State Department of Transportation Motor Carrier Division

125 East 11th Street

Austin, TX  78701
Email: SizeWeight@txdmv.gov

Help telephone line: 800-299-1700 – option 1 or 5.

Hours: Monday – Friday 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM  and Saturday’s from 6 AM until 2 PM.

Central Time Zone
Texas road & highway conditions.
Click here for the Texas state DOT website for oversize and over-weight hauling permits.
Texas cities serviced.
Additional info on oversize/weight loads.
 
The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and heavy-haul trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Texas State DOT Permits office before commencing any transport of oversize or heavy haul loads.
Texas oversize and overweight regulations for DOT trucking permits.
Texas official state flag.
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2020 Tennessee State Shipping Regulations

By  on May 11, 2020 	

  /   Lights, flags and signs., Oversize trucking permits, pilot-cars, State DOT trucking permit offices., USA shipping regulations.    /   1 Comment
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 
2020 Tennessee state shipping laws, rules regulations and limitations for oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.
Tennessee state shipping regulations DOT permit limitations and shipping regulations.
The great state of Tennessee official seal.
Please share your knowledge of Tennessee state shipping laws with other visitors below.
Locate oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars.
Tennessee oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars for hire:
Tennessee pilot cars and truck escorts.

Tennessee oversize and heavy-haul trucking companies for hire.

Order Tennessee oversize trucking permits.
Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.
Tennessee maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required.
Length: 50 feet from the kingpin to the rear of the trailer or load that is on the trailer. Any type of pole shipping that exceeds 75 feet overall will require a oversize transport permit to be issued.

Width: 8 feet 6 inches wide.

Height: 13 feet and 6 inches tall.

Weight: 80,000 pounds gross (GVW).

Overhang: 4 feet in the rear (requires 12 inch red safety flag) and 4 feet in the front.
Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.
These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in TN:
Length: 120 feet long overall.

Width: 16 feet wide. Anything that is in excess of 4 inches from either/both sides of the trailer is required to be flagged in front and rear. Flags must be 12 inches square minimum and safety colored orange or red.

Height: 15 feet about does it for max height in TN on most routes. At 15 feet in height you can count on being required to have a high pole (hi pole) escort.

Weight: Single axle 20,000 lbs, tandem axles 40,000 lbs, tridum axles 60,000 lbs, quadem axles, 80,000 lbs. Gross weight on 5 axles is 100,000 pounds, 6 axles 120,000 pounds, 7 axles 140,000 pounds, 8 axles 160,000 pounds.  Once you hit 150,000 pounds that’s in in TN.  You’re going to have to be granted special permission for your shipment to move.

Overhang: Depends on routing.  10 feet is probably not going to be a problem but much more than that is going to create delays.  Over 1/3 of actual item being shipped length is not going to go over real well.  Consider a different trailer is you are time sensitive. If shipment is extended beyond 4 feet from the rear of trailer red safety flags a minimum of 12 inches square are required on both sides.
Tennessee super-loads.
Requirements for extra heavy or extra dimensional (superloads) in TN:
Shipments that are defined as super-loads are typically any that exceed any of the weights or dimensions described above in routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits. Shipments that are in excess of  15 feet in height or 16 feet in width will not be allowed to travel via conventional permits if they is a public safety factor including potential property damages. Shipments that exceed 16 feet in height are seriously frowned on in the state of TN and will require additional approval to be considered for permitting.
Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads.
Travel times and restrictions:
The one half hour before sunrise and one half hour after sunset basic rule applies. No travel on Sunday. If over-weight only continuous travel is permitted. Night time travel for overweight is not a problem as long as minimum speed limit can be maintained by carrier.  Anything other than over-weight is daylight travel only for the most part unless otherwise specified on your permit.  In cities and high density traffic areas travel may be restricted between 7 and 9 AM and 4 and 6 PM on weekdays – be sure to refer to your permit. On the following holidays no travel is permitted: New Years day, Good Friday, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day.  The Tennessee state DOT permit office is closed on these days as well and additionally on:  Martin Luther King day, Presidents day, Columbus day, Veterans day and the day after Thanksgiving. However, travel is not restricted on any of these days if it is not on a Sunday unless otherwise specified on your permit. Note that failure to comply with designated travel time restrictions can result in the carrier/shipment being placed on permit issue restriction for 365 days. Inclement weather such as ice, snow, rain, wind and anything that restricts reasonable visibility is observed. For more information on TN road conditions.
When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.
Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanied by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:
QUICK REFERENCE
Length:
  • 75 feet to 85 feet you may be permitted to use a amber strobe light.
  • 85 feet requires 1 pilot car.
  • 120 feet requires 2 pilot cars.
Width:
2 lane roads:
  • 10 feet requires 1 pilot car unless the pavement is 24 feet wide edge line (white line on side) to edge line.
  • 14 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort vehicle.
4 lane roads:
  • 12 feet 6 inches requires 1 escort vehicle.
  • 14 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort vehicle.
Height:
  • 15 feet will require a pilot car equipped with a height pole.
Notes: Combination loads are not permitted if two oversize dimensions exist. Example: a bulldozer with a wide blade and another piece of machinery that is too tall on one single trailer. Blades and buckets on bulldozers or grading machinery are common examples. All oversize machinery must be loaded onto a trailer with extremities facing towards the rear of the trailer. Any machinery shipments with blades or buckets, etc. that is in excess of 13 feet and 6 inches will not be permitted unless removed from the machinery
DETAILS
Length: For overall lengths of up to 85 feet you can get by with a rotating or strobing amber light. If shipment is over 85 feet and 1 inch in length you will be required to have 1 pilot car (escort vehicle). If your shipment combination is over 120 feet in length you be required to have 2 pilot cars or escort vehicles.

Width: If shipment is under 10 feet wide you will need no pilot cars (escorts).  Shipments 10 feet 1 inch to 12 feet wide will require 1 pilot car on a 2 lane road if the distance from one side of the road to the other is less than 24 feet in width with the shoulder size excluded in measurement.  If your load is over 12 feet (up to 14 feet) wide you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle) on all 2 lane roads and highways. If your load measures 12 feet t0 14 feet in width and you are traveling on a 4 lane highway you will only be required to have 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle).  If your shipment is 14 feet to 16 feet in width you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle).

Height: If height of load exceeds 15 feet a front high pole vehicle is required.

Weight: If the shipment is able to maintain minimum speeds no escort vehicle is required.

Overhang: This is determined on a case-by-case basis.  It will depend on your proposed routing.  If you have any additional information on over-hang please comment below in order to help others.  Thank you.
NOTE:  Mobile homes exception.  All mobile homes up to 16 feet wide will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car.  Mobile homes are also allowed to travel on every day except for Sundays.  Travel times are from 9 am until 4 pm with all day travel permitted on Saturdays.
Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements, certifications.
Pilot car or escort vehicle mandatory operator certifications and vehicle requirements:
NOTE BE ADVISED NEW LAWS FOR 2018 WILL BE RELEASED VERY SOON. Tennessee state shipping regulations state that all pilot cars/escort vehicles must display either both bumpers or 1 roof mounted “OVERSIZE LOAD” or “WIDELOAD” sign (which ever is applicable) visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle and only displayed while working. Sign must be at least 5′ long but no greater than 7′ and 12″ in height but no greater than 18″ in height, yellow in color with black letters no less than 8″ in height but no more than 10″ in height and lettering must be a minimum of 1.4″ in width.  Vehicle must be equipped with 2 horizontally mounted rotating (if rotating 8″ base is required) (or strobe) amber colored flashing or strobe light which must be visible from a 360 degree angle from a minimum of 500 feet. Vehicles must be equipped with a CB radio or 2-way communication device and be in constant communication with all parties assigned to the movement.
It is our opinion that pilot cars also have a minimum of the additional items but not required:  2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C, a paddle sign with the word “STOP” on one side and “SLOW” on the other with dimensions of no less than 18″ in diameter with a minimum of 6″ letters. A red safety colored flag with a handle no less than 18″ square, 3 reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, 8 burning road flares, 2 OVERSIZE LOAD banners (yellow with black lettering) and a safety colored (red, orange, yellow or lime green) vest, jacket or shirt (used while directing traffic). Also see: FHA Best Practices for pilot cars.
Tennessee DOT and permit contact information.
Tennessee DOT office and permit contact information and notes:
Physical address:

Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)

James K Polk State Office Building, Suite 300 (permits office is Suite 800)

505 Deaderick Street, 3rd floor

Nashville, TN  37243-0031
TN permit information.
Regional contact information for oversize trucking permits, route surveys and insurance.
Email: See above.

Telephone number: 615-741-3821 (no answer after 4:15)

Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (closed from 12-1 PM). Personal visits from 9-3 PM except lunch hour.

Central Time Zone
Notes: Special permits are valid for 6 days and must be obtained prior to entering state. Annual permits are available in TN.
Click here for oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.
Tennessee cities serviced.
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