British Columbia Oversize & Heavy Haul Transport Guide
Important Note: We are not a permit service and we do not arrange permits for carriers. All information provided below is for information purposes only. Always read permits and provisions carefully as we cannot guarantee the accuracy of information provided below.
Navigating oversize load management in BC requires careful planning. Whether you’re handling heavy equipment oversize shipping or need oversize freight solutions, these regulations ensure safe oversize load delivery.
Permits for Oversize Transport Logistics
- Single-trip permits only
- Permit duration varies by trip length
- Required for all oversize/heavy haul operations
Operating Times for Oversize Equipment Transport
- 24/7 travel allowed for loads under:
- 10’6″ wide
- 14’6″ high
- 82′ long
- Larger loads restricted to daylight hours
- No travel on Sundays
- Summer restrictions (last June Friday to 2nd Monday in September):
- No travel Friday 2:00 PM – Saturday 4:00 AM
- No travel Saturday 2:00 PM – Sunday 4:00 AM
Equipment Requirements for Oversize Heavy Haul
- Tractor Wheelbase:
- Max 244″ (steer to drive)
- 30-day Long Wheelbase Permit for legal loads only
- Tridem Drive Tractors: No longer allowed >244″
- Spread Axles (6’+ spacing): Max 20,000 lbs total
- Overweight permits allowed for single-piece, non-reducible loads
- Lift Axles: Not recognized in BC
- Flip Axles:
- Must be locked in place
- Equally spaced
- Max overall length: 75’4″
Legal Dimensions for Oversize Load Management
- Length:
- 53′ semi-trailer (with lift axle up)
- 75’4″ overall max
- Rear overhang ≤ 35% of trailer wheelbase
- Width: 8’6″
- Height: 13’7″
- Weight Limits:
- Steer: 13,000 lbs
- Single: 20,000 lbs
- Tandem: 36,300 lbs
- Tridem: 52,800 lbs
Routine Permit Limits
- Length: Up to 101′
- Width: Up to 14’6″
- Height: Up to 15’6″
- Weight:
- Single: 29,700 lbs
- Tandem: 50,600 lbs
- Tridem: 63,800 lbs
- Note: Limits vary by specific route
Oversize Load Escort Services Requirements
- Length:
- Over 90′: 1 escort
- Rear overhang >21′: 1 escort
- Width:
- Over 10’6″: 1 escort (or beacon except Hwy 97/77)
- Over 11’5″: 1 escort
- Over 12’5″: 2 escorts
- Height: Escorts generally not required
- Some routes may require additional escorts
Signs, Flags & Lights for Oversize Load Safety
- Flags on all four corners (lights at night)
- Over 10’6″ wide:
- “Oversize Load” signs front and rear
- Flashing beacon on tractor cab
- Additional rear beacon if required
Seasonal Restrictions for Heavy Haul Oversized Transport
- Spring Thaw Period:
- Main highways: legal weights only
- Some routes: 50%–75% of legal weight limits
- Restrictions vary by route and weather conditions