Massachusetts Oversize Load Regulations: The Complete Guide
Important: We are not a permit service and we do not arrange permits for carriers. All information provided below is for informational purposes only. Always read permits and provisions carefully as we cannot guarantee the accuracy of information provided below.
Massachusetts DOT Ph#: 256-234-4265
Navigating Massachusetts’ roadways with Heavy Haul Oversized Transport requires careful planning and strict compliance. Whether you’re handling Oversize Equipment Transport or Heavy Equipment Oversize Shipping, understanding the Bay State’s Oversize Permits and Escort Requirements is crucial for successful operations.
Permit Details & Operating Hours
- Massachusetts Oversize Permits: Valid for 5 travel days and must be secured before entering the state.
- Standard operating window:
- For loads <12′ wide and <14′ high: Monday 12:01 AM through Saturday noon + Sunday 12:01 AM to noon.
- For loads 12′-14′ wide, >13′-11″ high, or 80′-114′ long: Sunrise to sunset, Monday-Friday.
- No travel: During rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM or 3:30-7:00 PM).
Restricted Travel Areas & Times
- No travel: On major holidays and certain holiday weekends.
- Boston-area highways (Routes 95 & 93): Restricted to 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
- Massachusetts Turnpike special rules:
- No permit needed for loads ≤10′ wide, legal weight, and ≤80′ long (NY line to I-95).
- Standard permits: Available for:
- ≤12′ wide
- ≤13′-9″ high
- ≤80′ long
- ≤99,000 lbs
- Special oversize loads: Require:
- Engineering approval
- $350 fee
- Police escort if >12′ wide, >100′ long, or >130,000 lbs
- Turnpike phone: (781) 431-5148
Legal & Routine Permit Dimensions
Standard Legal Dimensions (No Permit Required)
- Length: 53′ semi-trailer (Interstate/designated highways).
- Width: 8′-6″.
- Height: 13′-6″.
- Weight Limits:
- Gross: 80,000 lbs.
- Single axle: 24,000 lbs (designated), 22,400 lbs (other).
- Tandem: 34,000 lbs.
- Tridem: 36,000 lbs.
Routine Permit Limits
- Length: Up to 115′.
- Width: Up to 14′-11″.
- Height: Up to 14′-11″ (height survey required >13′-8″).
- Weight: Up to 130,000 lbs gross (axle weights vary by spacing).
- Maximum superload width: 16′.
- Important Note: Loads >130,000 lbs require expensive structure surveys (often thousands of dollars).
Escort Requirements
Length Escorts
- 80′: 1 escort.
- 95′: 2 escorts.
- ≥115′: 2 State Police escorts.
- ≥134′: State Police + 2 escorts.
Width Escorts
- 12′: 1 escort.
- 13′-6″: 2 escorts.
- 14′-11″: 2 escorts + State Police.
Height Escorts
- 13′-8″: Height survey + 1 front escort.
- 13′-11″: 2 escorts (route-dependent).
- 14′-11″: 2 front escorts + State Police.
Special Area Requirements
- Turnpike: Police escort required for:
- 12′ wide
- 100′ long
- 130,000 lbs
- Boston: 1 escort + city police.
- Cape Cod: >12′ wide requires 1 escort + State Police.
Safety & Compliance Requirements
Signage & Marking
- “Oversize Load” sign required on rear (when no escort needed).
- Red flags required on all extremities/corners.
Lighting
- Flashing amber light required during night moves.
Key Considerations for Transport Logistics
- Oversize Load Safety Regulations: Strictly enforced in metro areas.
- Heavy Load Compliance: Requires careful weight distribution.
- Specialized Transport Services: Often needed for Boston-area moves.
- Logistics for Heavy Haul: Must incorporate:
- Permit processing time.
- Escort coordination.
- Traffic pattern considerations.