Alberta Oversize & Heavy Haul Transport Regulations
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 Alberta requires careful planning to comply with permits, equipment rules, and safety regulations. Whether you’re handling heavy equipment oversize shipping or oversize freight solutions, here’s what you need to know:
Permits for Oversize Load Delivery
- Permits valid for 2 consecutive days
- Must be obtained before entering Alberta
- Annual permits available for frequent operations
Operating Times for Heavy Haul Oversized Transport
- General travel allowed 24/7
- Restrictions apply for:
- Loads >12’6” wide: No travel after 3:00 PM Fri/Sat; no Sunday travel
- Loads >14’6” wide: Daylight-only travel
Equipment Requirements for Oversize Equipment Transport
- Tractor Wheelbase:
- Standard: 244 inches
- With Annual Permit: Up to 267.7 inches
- Tridem Drive Tractors: All axles must be powered and evenly spaced
- Spread Axles (6’+): Max 20,000 lbs total
- Lift & Flip Axles: Require Annual Equipment Exemption Permit or must be secured
Legal Dimensions for Oversize Load Safety Regulations
- Max Length: 53’ semi-trailer / 75.5’ overall
- Rear Overhang: Max 35% of trailer wheelbase (permit needed beyond)
- Max Width: 8’6” (permit required for wider loads)
- Max Height: 13’7”
- Weight Limits:
- Single Axle: 20,020 lbs
- Tandem Axle: 37,400 lbs
- Tridem Axle: 46,200–52,900 lbs (with 9.8’+ spacing)
Routine Permit Limits for Oversize Freight Solutions
- Width/Height/Length: Varies by route
- Under Permit Weight Limits:
- Tandem Axle: Up to 55,000 lbs
- Tridem Axle: Up to 59,400 lbs
Annual Permits for Streamlined Oversize Load Management
- Annual Dimension Permit:
- Up to 14’6” wide, 16’4” high, 88’6” long
- 100’ long with stretch RGN
- Lift/Flip Axle Exemptions: Required for specialized hauling
- Oversize Load Sign Exemption: Allows signage without separate permit
Escort Requirements for Oversize Load Safety
- Over 12’7” wide: 1 escort
- Over 14’6” wide: 2 escorts
- Height: Escorts generally not required
Signs, Flags & Lights for Compliance
- Loads over 8’6” wide: Flags at widest points
- Over 10’ wide: “Wide Load” or “Oversize Load” signs (front/rear)
- Over 11’ wide: Flashing beacon light on tractor
Seasonal Restrictions Impacting Heavy Haul Oversized Transport
- Spring Thaw (until ~June 15): Overweight permits suspended in thaw zones
- Some routes limited to 75–90% of legal weight limits