Oversize, Overweight & Superload Permits

Oversize, overweight, and superload permits sit on a spectrum of regulatory burden. A standard oversize move (e.g. 13-foot wide load) may permit-clear in a few hours; a superload (over 16 feet wide or 200,000 lbs combined) can take weeks of route engineering and bridge analysis.

Oversize covers loads that exceed the state's legal length, width, or height limits. Width over 8'6" is the most common trigger; height over 13'6" is the second. Most states issue routine oversize permits within a business day or two for $20-$60 and require basic flag/banner / chase-vehicle compliance.

Overweight covers loads exceeding the state's legal axle, group, or gross weight limits. Permits factor in route stress on bridges and pavement. State engineers review proposed routes and may require alternate roads or specific axle configurations.

Superload is the heaviest tier - typically loads over 16' wide, 100' long, or 200,000 lbs combined. Each state's threshold differs slightly. Superloads require route engineering, bridge analysis, escort plans, and sometimes police escort. Permits can take 1-4 weeks.

The cluster below covers the qualifying thresholds in each state, the typical fee schedules, and how to plan a multi-state superload that has to clear several state engineering reviews in sequence.