Fast, reliable & cost effective Equipment Transport

If you need to transport heavy or oversized loads through Iowa, it’s important to understand the state’s regulations. Whether you’re moving construction equipment, agricultural machinery, or large freight, you must comply with specific size and weight limits to avoid fines and delays. Freedom Heavy Haul specializes in helping you secure the right permits, plan your route, and ensure a smooth transport process.

Oversize and Overweight Vehicle Requirements in Iowa

Iowa has strict regulations regarding the maximum dimensions and weight of commercial vehicles. If your load exceeds these limits, you will need a permit before moving forward.

Maximum Dimensions Without a Permit

Before obtaining a permit, you should check whether your vehicle falls within Iowa’s legal limits:

• Width: 8 feet 6 inches (102 inches)
• Height: 13 feet 6 inches
• Length:
  • Single vehicle: 40 feet
  • Semi-trailer combination: 53 feet (trailer)
  • Truck and trailer: 65 feet
  • Double trailer combination: 81 feet
• Overhang: 4 feet (front), 5 feet (rear)

If your load exceeds any of these dimensions, Freedom Heavy Haul can assist you in obtaining the necessary permits.

Maximum Weight Limits Without a Permit

Weight restrictions are in place to protect roads and bridges from damage. Your vehicle must meet these requirements unless you have a special permit:

• Single axle: 20,000 pounds
• Tandem axle: 34,000 pounds
• Gross vehicle weight: 80,000 pounds (calculated using the federal bridge formula)

If your shipment exceeds these weight limits, you’ll need to apply for an overweight permit before transport.

Permit Requirements for Oversized and Overweight Vehicles

If your load exceeds Iowa’s legal limits, you must obtain the appropriate permit. Freedom Heavy Haul helps you secure the right authorization so you can stay compliant and avoid unnecessary delays.

Types of Permits for Large and Heavy Loads

Depending on your hauling needs, different permits may apply:

1. Single-Trip Permit – Ideal for one-time transport exceeding standard limits. Valid for up to five days.
2. Annual Permit – Allows ongoing oversized travel along approved routes for one year.
3. Self-Propelled Equipment Permit – Designed for agricultural and construction machinery.
4. Raw Forestry Products Permit – Specifically for logging and timber transport.
5. Compacted Rubbish Truck Permit – Required for garbage trucks that exceed weight limits.
6. Emergency Permit – Issued for urgent hauls, such as utility restoration efforts.

Permit Application and Fees

You can apply for a permit through the Iowa DOT’s automated permitting system (IAPS). The application requires details such as vehicle specifications, axle weights, route plans, and load dimensions.

Permit fees vary based on weight, size, and travel distance. Freedom Heavy Haul can guide you through the process and ensure all necessary information is included.

Restrictions for Oversized and Overweight Travel

Iowa has specific restrictions in place to minimize risks associated with oversized transport. If you’re moving an oversized load, you must follow designated travel hours and safety guidelines.

Time Restrictions for Movement

To keep roadways safe, oversized loads must travel during approved hours:

• Daylight travel only (30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset) for most oversized loads.
• No travel allowed on major holidays, including New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
• Certain permits allow 24-hour transport, provided extra safety measures are in place.

Escort Vehicle Requirements

If your load is exceptionally large, you may need one or more escort vehicles. These vehicles help direct traffic and warn other drivers of an oversized load.

• Width over 14 feet 6 inches: One escort vehicle required.
• Width over 16 feet: Two escort vehicles needed.
• Height over 15 feet 5 inches: A route survey must be completed before transport.
• Length over 120 feet: One or more pilot cars required.

Freedom Heavy Haul works with you to determine if your shipment needs an escort and helps you arrange the necessary services.

Signage and Lighting Regulations

Iowa requires oversized loads to have proper signage and lighting for visibility:

• “Oversize Load” signs must be displayed on the front and rear of the vehicle.
• Red or orange flags (18 inches square) must be attached to the outer edges of the load.
• Flashing amber lights or escort vehicles may be required in some cases.

Following these rules will help prevent accidents and keep your transport running smoothly.

Special Considerations for Agricultural and Construction Equipment

If you’re transporting agricultural or construction equipment, there are specific rules to keep in mind. Freedom Heavy Haul can help you determine what permits you need.

Farm Equipment and Road Travel

Farm machinery may operate on public roads without a permit if it stays within 16 feet in width. However, if it exceeds this limit, you must obtain an oversized permit before transport.

• Some areas restrict large agricultural equipment to specific routes to reduce road congestion.
• Traveling during non-peak hours may be required for safety.

Construction Equipment Regulations

Heavy machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, and graders often surpass legal weight limits. These vehicles require a self-propelled equipment permit, and some may need special travel arrangements.

• Some routes may require temporary road closures to accommodate oversized equipment.
• Police escorts may be necessary for exceptionally large loads.

Freedom Heavy Haul can assist in planning the best route and securing any special permits your equipment may require.

Superload Regulations and Route Planning

If your haul is exceptionally large, it may be classified as a superload, requiring additional planning and approvals.

What Qualifies as a Superload?

Your load is considered a superload if it exceeds:

• 20 feet in width
• 120 feet in length
• 100,000 pounds in weight

Route Surveys and Special Approvals

Superload transport requires a detailed route plan, including:

• Bridge analysis to check for weight limits.
• Traffic control plans to ensure road safety.
• Route surveys to avoid obstacles such as overhead wires and narrow roads.

Superloads must follow pre-approved travel schedules to minimize disruptions. Freedom Heavy Haul can coordinate with the Iowa DOT to ensure your route is approved.

Enforcement and Penalties for Non-Compliance

Iowa actively enforces its size and weight regulations, and failing to comply can result in costly fines.

Weigh Stations and Roadside Inspections

Commercial vehicles must stop at designated weigh stations unless they qualify for an exemption. Mobile enforcement units may also conduct inspections to ensure compliance.

Fines for Oversized and Overweight Violations

Operating an overweight or oversized vehicle without a permit can result in severe penalties:

• Overweight fines start at $10 per 1,000 pounds over the legal limit.
• Failure to obtain the correct permit can result in fines and potential vehicle impoundment.

To avoid penalties and keep your transport on schedule, work with Freedom Heavy Haul to ensure all permits and regulations are met.

Work With Freedom Heavy Haul for Your Oversized Transport Needs

If you need to transport an oversized or overweight load in Iowa, Freedom Heavy Haul is here to help. We handle permit applications, route planning, and compliance checks so you can focus on your business.

Contact Freedom Heavy Haul today to ensure your transport is handled efficiently and legally.