Obtaining oversize or over-dimensional permits can often feel like a complicated task, and rightfully so. You not only need to fill out several forms but also make sure you are complying with all the necessary state regulations, weight limits, and route restrictions. At Simplex, we are your strategic partner committed to streamlining your operations.
Our team has already done the groundwork. We have set up a national network across all 50 states so your permits can be obtained quickly. Our established relationships with state and local authorities give us the leverage to expedite the process. Let us handle your wide load permits – you can direct your attention to your core business. Talk to a Simplex permitting agent today.
What is an Oversize Permit?
It is a legal authorization that allows you to transport a load exceeding the standard legal size or gross weight limits set by federal, state, or local authorities. All haulers that move large items such as construction equipment, prefabricated homes, or other oversized goods need to obtain the oversize/overweight permits first.
The permit is designed to minimize risks on the road, so it comes with a set of strict conditions, which can vary by jurisdiction. But generally speaking, for extremely large loads, you may need to have one or more escort vehicles (“pilot cars”). These travel in front of or behind the oversized load to warn other road users.
Oversized loads also tend to have restricted travel times, usually to avoid peak traffic hours. The permit types will specify the exact route that your overweight vehicles must follow to avoid low bridges and narrow lanes.
Do You Need Oversize Permits?
You will likely need this permit if:
- The width of your load goes beyond 8 feet 6 inches
- The total height of your cargo surpasses 13 feet 6 inches
- Your trailer’s length is greater than 53 feet
- The combined gross vehicle weight of your load and the truck exceeds 80,000 pounds
These limits can be different from state to state. For example, in Texas, the height limit is 14 feet, so, if your load is 13 feet 8 inches high, you would not need an oversize permit in Texas. However, these limits can sometimes vary depending on the type of road you are using. Some local roads may have lower height limits due to low-clearance bridges or overpasses.
Florida, on the other hand, has a standard maximum width limit of 8 feet 6 inches, but it can extend up to 10 feet for “non-divisible” loads like heavy machinery. In such cases, a special oversize permit is needed from the authorities that issue permits.
Let Our Experienced Permit Agents Do the Heavy-Lifting for You
If you move oversized or overweight loads, you know how challenging it can be to get the right permits for your route. That is why we at Simplex Group expertly take care of all your temporary permit needs: oversize, overheight, heavy haul, overlength, overwidth, fuel tax, and more.
We also help you determine the specific requirements for each state you travel through, so you do not have to worry about getting into trouble with the Department of Transportation (DOT) permit office. But that is not all: we can also help you find the best interstate transportation route for your truck, based on the shortest distance, the fastest permit delivery, and the safest conditions. We will also advise you on any secondary special permit – like the Unified Carrier Registration – you may need to avoid any legal issues. Call us at 1-866-931-7990 or complete this form and let us plan your next oversized load route.