Fast, reliable & cost effective Equipment Transport

Minnesota’s oversize and overweight (OS/OW) vehicle requirements ensure safe and compliant transportation of large and heavy loads. These regulations include specific size and weight limits, a structured permit system, operational guidelines, and designated routes to protect road infrastructure and public safety. Freedom Heavy Haul specializes in assisting customers with all aspects of OS/OW transport, from securing permits to planning compliant routes and ensuring safety requirements are met.

Oversize and Overweight Vehicle Requirements in Minnesota

If your vehicle or load exceeds standard legal dimensions or weight limits, you will need to follow Minnesota’s OS/OW guidelines. These limits are in place to protect roads and ensure everyone’s safety, including yours.

Size and Weight Standards

Knowing the legal thresholds for your transport is crucial.

• Width: The maximum allowed width is 8 feet 6 inches (102 inches).
• Height: Vehicles cannot exceed 13 feet 6 inches in height.
• Length: Single vehicles are capped at 45 feet, while combination vehicles can go up to 75 feet, depending on the setup.

For weight:

• Single axle: 20,000 pounds.
• Tandem axle: 34,000 pounds.
• Gross vehicle weight: 80,000 pounds is the standard limit unless you obtain a special permit.

Freedom Heavy Haul can help you assess whether your vehicle or load requires additional authorization, ensuring you stay compliant.

Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles

When your load exceeds legal limits, securing the appropriate permit is essential. Freedom Heavy Haul works with you to handle the permitting process efficiently.

Types of Permits

Depending on your transport needs, you may require one of these permits:

• Single-Trip Permits: For moving a single, specific OS/OW load.
• Annual Permits: Ideal for businesses with recurring transport needs, such as hauling construction or agricultural equipment.
• Seasonal Permits: Designed for industries with high-demand periods, such as farming during harvest season.

Application Process and Costs

To obtain a permit, you’ll need to provide details about your load, including its size, weight, and intended route. Fees are determined by load characteristics and distance traveled. Freedom Heavy Haul can streamline this process, so you can focus on your business without worrying about administrative hurdles.

Operational Requirements

Once your permits are in place, there are specific operational rules you’ll need to follow to transport your load safely and legally.

Safety Measures

Safety is a priority for OS/OW loads, both for you and others on the road.

• Escort Vehicles: If your load is over 12 feet wide, you’ll likely need one or more escort vehicles to guide the transport. Freedom Heavy Haul ensures these requirements are met seamlessly.
• Signage and Lighting: Your vehicle must display “Oversize Load” signs and use flags or lights to increase visibility for other drivers.

Travel Time Restrictions

Minnesota restricts OS/OW movements to daylight hours to minimize risks. Holiday travel and urban rush-hour restrictions may also apply. Freedom Heavy Haul plans routes and schedules to ensure your transport stays on track.

Routing and Restrictions

Proper routing is critical for oversize transport. Minnesota’s Department of Transportation (MnDOT) specifies approved routes for OS/OW vehicles to prevent road damage and ensure your load reaches its destination safely.

Approved Routes and Seasonal Considerations

Oversize loads are required to follow MnDOT-approved routes to avoid restricted bridges and vulnerable roads. Seasonal load limits may also apply, especially during spring thaw periods when roads are more susceptible to damage. At Freedom Heavy Haul, we help you select the most efficient and compliant routes for your shipment.

Enforcement and Penalties

Staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding fines—it also ensures the safety of your cargo and others. Minnesota enforces OS/OW regulations through weigh stations and roadside inspections.

Avoiding Penalties

If your load exceeds weight limits or deviates from permitted routes, penalties can add up quickly. Overweight fines are calculated per pound over the legal limit. Freedom Heavy Haul ensures that your load is fully compliant, so you don’t face unexpected delays or expenses.

Special Exemptions and Conditions

Certain situations may allow for relaxed rules or exemptions. If your transport falls into one of these categories, Freedom Heavy Haul can guide you through the process.

Agricultural and Emergency Vehicle Exemptions

Farm equipment and emergency response vehicles often operate under different regulations. For example, during harvest season, farm machinery may be allowed extended dimensions or weight without additional permits. Freedom Heavy Haul specializes in working with agricultural clients, helping you get your equipment where it needs to be during critical periods.

Minnesota’s oversize and overweight vehicle requirements can seem daunting, but with Freedom Heavy Haul, you can focus on your business while we handle the logistics. Whether it’s securing permits, planning routes, or meeting safety requirements, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let us take the complexity out of transporting your heavy loads, so you can move forward with confidence.