Fast, reliable & cost effective Equipment Transport

If you’re planning to transport oversize or overweight (OS/OW) loads in South Dakota, understanding the regulations is crucial. These rules ensure the safety of your cargo, the general public, and the state’s infrastructure. At Freedom Heavy Haul, we specialize in guiding you through this process, making it seamless for your business to move heavy or oversized loads.

Oversize and Overweight Vehicle Requirements in South Dakota

Before moving an oversized load, it’s essential to know whether your vehicle or cargo exceeds standard limits. These measurements help determine if you need a permit and the type of permit required.

Baseline Measurements and Thresholds

Here are the standard limits your vehicle must meet to avoid classification as OS/OW:

• Length:
  • Single vehicles: Up to 45 feet.
  • Combination vehicles (e.g., truck and trailer): Up to 75 feet.
• Width:
  • Maximum width: 8 feet 6 inches.
• Height:
  • Maximum height: 13 feet 6 inches.
• Weight:
  • Gross vehicle weight (GVW): 80,000 pounds.
  • Specific axle weights:
    • Single axle: 20,000 pounds.
    • Tandem axle: 34,000 pounds.

If your vehicle exceeds any of these thresholds, you’ll need a permit to proceed.

Permit Requirements for OS/OW Vehicles

Permits are essential for legal transportation of oversized or overweight loads. With Freedom Heavy Haul, you can count on our team to help you navigate the permitting process, ensuring that your cargo complies with South Dakota’s laws.

Types of Permits Available

Depending on your transportation needs, you may require one of the following permits:

• Single-Trip Permits: Ideal if you’re moving an oversized load just once.
• Annual Permits: Perfect for businesses like yours that regularly transport similar oversized loads.
• Special Permits: If your cargo has unique requirements—such as agricultural equipment or emergency vehicles—this permit may apply.

Freedom Heavy Haul can assist you in identifying the right permit for your needs and filing the necessary paperwork to get it approved.

Application Process for Permits

To secure a permit, you’ll need to submit details about your vehicle and cargo. Providing accurate information helps ensure smooth approval, and we at Freedom Heavy Haul can assist you every step of the way.

Required Documentation

Here’s what you’ll need to provide when applying for a permit:

• Detailed dimensions of your vehicle and load.
• Axle weight and configuration.
• Proposed travel route, including start and end points.
• Proof of liability insurance.

Our experienced team ensures your application is complete and accurate, saving you time and minimizing delays.

Escort and Pilot Vehicle Requirements

If your load is oversized, South Dakota may require you to have an escort or pilot vehicle. These vehicles play a crucial role in keeping your transport safe and warning other drivers of the oversized load.

Situations Requiring Escorts

You’ll need escort vehicles in these situations:

• Width:
  • Loads wider than 12 feet require one escort vehicle.
  • For widths over 16 feet, two escort vehicles are mandatory.
• Height and Length:
  • High or lengthy loads may also require escorts, especially in areas with limited clearance.

Freedom Heavy Haul can help you coordinate escort services, ensuring your load meets all safety requirements and guidelines.

Travel Restrictions for OS/OW Vehicles

To ensure safe travel for everyone on the road, South Dakota enforces certain restrictions on when and how OS/OW vehicles can operate. Following these rules not only keeps your load secure but also helps avoid unnecessary fines or delays.

Rules Governing Travel Times

Here’s what you need to know about travel restrictions:

• Daylight Hours:
  Your OS/OW vehicle can only travel during daylight hours, which are defined as 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
• Holidays:
  Movement of oversized loads is prohibited during major holidays or extended holiday weekends.
• Weather Conditions:
  If hazardous weather conditions like snow or high winds occur, travel is not permitted for OS/OW loads.

Freedom Heavy Haul stays updated on these regulations to help you plan your trip effectively.

Specialized Routes and Seasonal Restrictions

Choosing the right route is critical for oversized loads. South Dakota places additional limitations on certain roads to protect infrastructure and ensure safety.

Common Route Limitations

These are some factors to consider when selecting your route:

• Bridge Load Limits:
  Bridges have specific weight tolerances. Your load must comply to avoid structural damage or fines.
• Road Width:
  Narrow roads may require alternate routes for wide vehicles.
• Seasonal Load Limits:
  During the spring thaw, roads may be more vulnerable to damage, leading to stricter weight limits.

With Freedom Heavy Haul, you can rely on us to plan the best route for your cargo, taking all restrictions into account.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to follow South Dakota’s OS/OW requirements can lead to steep fines and penalties. These violations often occur when loads exceed permitted dimensions, permits aren’t obtained, or cargo isn’t properly secured.

Common Violations

Some examples of non-compliance include:

• Operating without the correct permit.
• Exceeding size or weight limits beyond the approved amount.
• Failing to use escort vehicles when required.

Freedom Heavy Haul helps you avoid these pitfalls by ensuring your transport complies with all regulations.

Economic and Infrastructure Implications

Transporting oversized loads contributes significantly to South Dakota’s economy, supporting industries like agriculture, construction, and manufacturing. At the same time, permits and restrictions protect public infrastructure, ensuring safe roads and bridges for everyone.

Benefits of Compliance

By following OS/OW regulations, you not only keep your cargo secure but also contribute to preserving South Dakota’s roadways. These rules are designed to maintain safety and efficiency, both for you and other road users.