Fast, reliable & cost effective Equipment Transport

Transporting large and heavy vehicles through Wisconsin requires compliance with regulations designed to protect roads, bridges, and public safety. If you plan to move an oversized or overweight load, you must follow strict guidelines for permits, size and weight restrictions, and approved routes. At Freedom Heavy Haul, we make this process easy by handling the logistics and ensuring your freight is transported legally and efficiently.

Understanding Oversize and Overweight Vehicle Requirements in Wisconsin

Wisconsin law defines oversized and overweight vehicles based on specific dimensions and weight limits. If your truck, trailer, or load exceeds these limits, you will need a permit before hitting the road.

Legal Size and Weight Limits

If your vehicle stays within these limits, no special permit is required. Anything larger is considered oversize or overweight and must comply with additional requirements.

• Width: 8 feet 6 inches (102 inches)
• Height: 13 feet 6 inches
• Length:
  • Single-unit vehicle: 40 feet
  • Tractor-trailer combination: 53 feet for the semitrailer
  • Double trailers: 65 feet total
  • Truck and trailer combination: 65 feet
• Weight Restrictions:
  • Single axle: 20,000 pounds
  • Tandem axle: 34,000 pounds
  • Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): 80,000 pounds

If your shipment exceeds these dimensions or weight limits, Freedom Heavy Haul can help secure the necessary permits and coordinate your transport.

Permit Types for Oversized and Overweight Vehicles

To legally transport an oversized or overweight load, you need the right permit. Wisconsin offers different permits based on the nature of your transport.

Single Trip and Multiple Trip Permits

Depending on how often you transport heavy loads, you may need a one-time or recurring permit.

• Single Trip Permit – If you’re moving an oversized load just once, this permit covers a single journey along a designated route.
• Multiple Trip Permit – If your business frequently transports similar loads, this permit allows repeated travel over a set timeframe.

Annual and Specialty Permits

Some industries require year-round transport of heavy equipment. Wisconsin offers long-term permits for certain loads.

• Annual Permit – If your loads fall within specific size and weight limits, this permit allows continuous transport for one year.
• Raw Forest Products Permit – If you’re hauling logs, pulpwood, or timber, this permit covers your shipment.
• Agricultural Equipment Permit – Designed for moving large farm machinery and harvest vehicles.
• Mobile Machinery Permit – For specialized equipment like cranes, drill rigs, and self-propelled machinery.

If you’re unsure which permit you need, Freedom Heavy Haul can help. We handle all the paperwork so you can focus on your business.

Travel Restrictions for Oversized and Overweight Loads

Transporting oversized loads in Wisconsin involves specific travel restrictions. These rules help prevent congestion and keep roads safe for all drivers.

Time and Day Restrictions

When moving oversized freight, timing matters.

• Daylight Travel: You can only move most oversized loads from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
• Weekend Restrictions: If your load exceeds certain dimensions, you cannot travel after noon on Saturday or at all on Sunday.
• Night Travel: Only allowed with special permission and additional safety measures.

Escort and Safety Requirements

Some oversized loads require extra precautions, including escort vehicles and warning signs.

• Escort Vehicles:
  • Over 12 feet wide – One escort vehicle
  • Over 14 feet wide or 100 feet long – Two escort vehicles
  • Over 16 feet wide – Police escort may be required
• Flags and Signs:
  • Red or orange flags (18 inches square) placed at all corners
  • Oversize Load” signs required for anything over 10 feet in width
• Lighting Requirements:
  • Amber warning lights for visibility
  • Additional lighting if moving under a special night permit

Freedom Heavy Haul can coordinate escort vehicles and ensure your load meets all safety requirements.

Route Planning and Roadway Considerations

Not all roads in Wisconsin allow oversized vehicles. Some bridges and highways have restrictions based on weight, height, or traffic flow.

Restricted and Approved Routes

To avoid fines and delays, it’s crucial to plan your route in advance. The Wisconsin OSOW Permit System provides updated maps of approved roads.

• Interstate Highways: Preferred routes for heavy transport but require proper permits.
• Local Roads: Cities and towns may have additional restrictions, so always check local regulations.
• Seasonal Weight Limits: Some roads have lower weight limits during spring thaw to prevent pavement damage.

At Freedom Heavy Haul, we handle route planning for you, ensuring a smooth and legal transport process.

Enforcement and Penalties for Violations

Wisconsin law enforcement takes oversize and overweight violations seriously. Failing to follow the rules can result in hefty fines, permit revocation, or even vehicle impoundment.

Fines and Legal Consequences

If you don’t have the proper permit or exceed permitted limits, you could face:

• Fines based on excess weight or dimensions – The more over the limit, the higher the penalty.
• Permit suspension – Repeated violations can result in losing transport privileges.
• Vehicle detainment – If your load is unsafe or non-compliant, your truck could be held until issues are resolved.

To avoid these costly mistakes, let Freedom Heavy Haul handle the permitting and compliance for your shipment.

Make Your Oversized Transport Easy with Freedom Heavy Haul

Moving an oversized or overweight load in Wisconsin doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right permits, proper planning, and expert assistance, your freight can reach its destination safely and legally.

At Freedom Heavy Haul, we specialize in handling the logistics for oversized transport. From obtaining permits to planning routes and arranging escort vehicles, we take care of the details so you don’t have to.

Contact Freedom Heavy Haul today to get your oversized load moving without hassle!