Fast, reliable & cost effective Equipment Transport

If you need to transport an oversized or overweight load in Nebraska, understanding the state’s regulations is crucial. Freedom Heavy Haul is here to help you navigate these requirements, secure the right permits, and ensure your shipment moves smoothly. Whether you’re hauling heavy machinery, agricultural equipment, or large freight, knowing the size and weight limits, permit rules, and safety requirements will keep you in compliance and prevent costly delays.

Oversize and Overweight Vehicle Requirements in Nebraska

Before applying for permits, it’s essential to know Nebraska’s legal size and weight limits. If your load exceeds these limits, you’ll need an oversize or overweight permit to travel legally.

Standard Size Limits

Nebraska enforces size restrictions to ensure the safe movement of vehicles on highways. If your truck or trailer exceeds these dimensions, you must obtain a permit.

• Width: 8 feet 6 inches (102 inches)
• Height: 14 feet 6 inches
• Length:
  • Single vehicle: 40 feet
  • Semitrailer combination: 53 feet
  • Truck-trailer combination: 65 feet
  • Overall length: 85 feet (for certain configurations)

Weight Restrictions

Weight limits protect roads and bridges from excessive wear. If your load surpasses these limits, you’ll need an overweight permit.

• Single axle: 20,000 pounds
• Tandem axle: 34,000 pounds
• Gross vehicle weight: 80,000 pounds (based on the Federal Bridge Formula)

If you’re unsure whether your shipment exceeds these limits, Freedom Heavy Haul can assess your load and determine the appropriate permits.

Permits for Oversize and Overweight Loads

If your load is larger or heavier than Nebraska’s standard limits, you’ll need a permit before transporting it. These permits specify approved routes, travel times, and any necessary escort vehicles.

Types of Permits

Depending on your load and how often you haul oversized freight, different permit options are available:

• Single Trip Permit – If you’re making a one-time haul, this permit covers your journey along a designated route.
• Annual Permit – If you frequently transport oversized loads, this option allows multiple trips throughout the year under certain conditions.
• Farm Equipment Permit – Specifically for agricultural machinery like tractors and combines that exceed standard size limits.
• Superload Permit – Required for exceptionally large or heavy hauls, typically exceeding 160,000 pounds, 16 feet in width, or 16 feet in height.

How to Obtain a Permit

Applying for an oversize or overweight permit in Nebraska involves submitting details about your load, including:

• Vehicle dimensions
• Axle weights and spacing
• Travel route and final destination
• Trip duration

Freedom Heavy Haul simplifies the permitting process by handling the paperwork for you, ensuring you get approval without delays.

Travel Restrictions and Roadway Requirements

To avoid traffic disruptions and protect infrastructure, Nebraska enforces specific travel restrictions for oversized and overweight vehicles. Understanding these rules helps you plan your trip efficiently.

Time and Day Restrictions

• Daylight-only travel – You can typically operate between 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset.
• Weekend and holiday restrictions – Some loads may be prohibited from traveling during high-traffic times.
• Weather limitations – Travel may be restricted during heavy rain, snow, or high winds.

If your schedule requires exceptions, Freedom Heavy Haul can help you navigate these restrictions and find the best options for your haul.

Route Limitations

Not all roads are suitable for oversized or overweight loads. Some highways, bridges, and urban areas have restrictions that must be considered when planning your route.

• Weight-restricted bridges may require alternate routes.
• Certain urban areas impose size limitations during peak traffic hours.
• Road construction zones may present additional challenges.

Our team at Freedom Heavy Haul ensures your route complies with Nebraska’s regulations, avoiding unnecessary delays or penalties.

Escort Vehicle and Safety Requirements

Some oversized loads require escort vehicles, also known as pilot cars, to warn other drivers and assist in maneuvering through traffic.

Escort Vehicle Guidelines

Escort requirements depend on the size of your load:

• Over 12 feet wide – Requires at least one escort vehicle.
• Over 14 feet wide – Two escort vehicles are necessary (front and rear).
• Height exceeding 15 feet – A pole car may be required to check for overhead clearance.

Escort vehicles must have flashing lights, two-way radios, and “OVERSIZE LOAD” signage to alert other motorists.

Marking and Visibility Requirements

To keep your load visible and safe during transport, Nebraska requires specific markings:

• “OVERSIZE LOAD” signs on the front and rear of the vehicle.
• Red or orange flags for loads extending more than four feet beyond the trailer.
• Flashing amber lights for nighttime or low-visibility conditions.

Freedom Heavy Haul ensures your vehicle meets all visibility and safety requirements before hitting the road.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to follow Nebraska’s OS/OW regulations can result in fines and legal complications. If your truck is overweight or improperly marked, law enforcement may issue citations that can delay your delivery.

Fines for Overweight Violations

• Fees are calculated per excess pound over the legal limit.
• Severe overweight violations may lead to larger fines or impoundment.

Permit Violations

• Traveling without a required permit can result in costly penalties.
• Unauthorized use of restricted routes may lead to legal consequences.
• Failing to display proper signage or use escort vehicles can result in citations.

To avoid fines and legal trouble, trust Freedom Heavy Haul to handle your permits and compliance requirements.

Special Considerations for Agricultural and Construction Equipment

If you transport farming or construction equipment, Nebraska has special permit rules to accommodate these vehicles.

Farm Equipment on Highways

Agricultural machinery exceeding standard size limits can travel on highways with the proper permits. If you’re moving tractors, combines, or other large equipment, ensure you have the right approvals before transport.

• Farm vehicles may be exempt from some commercial regulations but still require permits.
• Large equipment may need escort vehicles on narrow rural roads.

Construction and Heavy Machinery Transport

Bulldozers, cranes, and excavators often exceed standard weight and size limits. These loads require special permits and route planning to avoid restricted areas.

• Permit fees depend on equipment size and travel distance.
• Some machinery may need to be disassembled for transport.

Freedom Heavy Haul specializes in moving heavy equipment and will secure the right permits to keep your operation on track.

Transporting oversized or overweight loads in Nebraska requires careful planning, proper permits, and adherence to state regulations. Freedom Heavy Haul is your trusted partner in managing every aspect of your shipment, from permit applications to route planning. Whether you’re hauling farm equipment, construction machinery, or industrial freight, we ensure a smooth and compliant transport process. Contact us today to get started on your next heavy haul.