Guide
Oversize Load Permit Guide
How oversize and superload permits work, what we need from you, and how lead times scale with complexity.
What triggers a permit?
A heavy haul move generally requires permits when the cargo or the rig combined exceeds standard road-legal limits. The default thresholds in most states are:
| Dimension | Standard limit |
|---|---|
| Width | 8'6" (102 in) |
| Height | 13'6" (162 in) |
| Length | 53’ (typical trailer) |
| Gross weight | 80,000 lb |
Anything beyond these triggers a permit. Anything significantly beyond — or that requires bridge analysis — triggers superload review.
Single-state vs. multi-state
A single-state move is the fastest path. Each state has its own permit office, online application system, fees, and turnaround windows. We track these.
A multi-state move is the slowest jurisdiction. If your move passes through 5 states, your earliest possible departure is the date the slowest state issues. Plan accordingly.
Superloads
A superload exceeds the standard oversize/overweight thresholds enough that the state DOT requires additional engineering before issuing. That typically includes:
- Bridge analysis — verifying every bridge on the route can carry the load, sometimes with restrictions (single-axle crawl, lane restriction, alternate route)
- Route survey — physical or detailed-map verification of clearances, turn radii, and obstructions
- Traffic engineering — for urban areas or high-traffic corridors, an engineering review of when the load can move
- Police escort and signage planning
Superload permits commonly take 4–8 weeks for a single state and longer for multi-state.
Escort requirements
Escort requirements vary by state and load class. Common triggers:
- Pilot car (front, rear, or both) — typically required above 12’ wide or 100’ long
- Height pole car — for tall loads in regions with low overhead
- Police escort — for the heaviest superloads, urban routes, or specific roadway types
Our routing team plans the escort sequence as part of the permit packet.
Time-of-day windows
Many permits restrict when the load can move:
- Daylight only — common for oversize loads
- Off-peak hours — common in urban areas to avoid commute traffic
- Weekends only — for very large loads through congested regions
- Weather-dependent — wind speed limits for tall or wide loads
We sequence the move to fit the windows.
What we need from you
To start a permit application:
- Cargo dimensions — length, width, height
- Cargo weight — gross plus weight distribution by axle group
- Origin and destination addresses
- Target dates — and any flex window
- Special requirements — secured-facility access, escort preferences, documentation needs
The earlier you engage us, the more flexibility you’ll have on routing and lead time.
Frequently asked questions
What dimensions trigger an oversize permit?
In most U.S. states, anything exceeding 8'6" wide, 13'6" tall, 53' long, or 80,000 lb gross requires an oversize or overweight permit. Specific thresholds vary by state — California, for example, has different defaults than Texas. Multi-state moves use the most restrictive jurisdiction in the route.
What's the difference between an oversize permit and a superload permit?
Oversize permits cover loads above standard but within state-defined limits; they're often issued in 1–5 business days. Superload permits cover loads exceeding those limits — typically requiring engineering review (bridge analysis, route survey), and lead times of weeks rather than days.
Do all states require pilot cars or police escorts?
No — escort requirements vary by state and by load dimensions. Generally, pilot cars become required around 12' wide or 100' long, with police escorts for some superloads, urban routes, or specific roadway segments. The route engineering identifies which segments need which escorts.
How long does a typical oversize permit take to issue?
Single-state, in-window oversize: 1–5 business days. Multi-state oversize without bridge issues: 1–3 weeks. Single-state superload with bridge engineering: 2–6 weeks. Multi-state superload: 4–12 weeks. We track jurisdiction lead times and plan accordingly.
What information do you need to start a permit?
Cargo dimensions (length, width, height, weight, weight distribution), origin and destination, and target dates. The earlier you give us cargo data, the more options we have on routing and lead times.
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