North Dakota Oversize Load Regulations & Transport Guide
Important: 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.
Heavy haul oversized transport or machinery hauling services, understanding North Dakota’s oversize load safety regulations is crucial for compliant operations. Here’s what you need to know:
Permit Essentials
Oversize permits valid for 3 travel days.
Must obtain permits before entering the state.
Single-trip permits required for most oversized movements.
Special provisions for heavy equipment oversize shipping.
Operating Hours & Travel Flexibility
Standard movement: Sunrise to sunset (including weekends).
Restrictions for larger loads:
– 16′ wide or >110′ long: No travel Saturday after noon or all day Sunday.
– Overweight-only loads enjoy continuous travel privileges.
– 16′ wide or >110′ long: No travel Saturday after noon or all day Sunday.
– Overweight-only loads enjoy continuous travel privileges.
Legal Dimensions for Heavy Haul Trucks
- Length:
- 53′ semi-trailer standard
- 75′ maximum overall (including overhang)
- Width: 8’6″
- Height: 14′
- Weight Limits:
- Gross: 80,000 lbs
- Single axle: 20,000 lbs
- Tandem: 34,000 lbs
- Tridem: 48,000 lbs
Special Weight Considerations
Divisible loads over 80,000 lbs allowed without permit on state highways (if axle weights are legal).
Interstate Permit required for any interstate movement.
Registration requirements: Must register tractor for maximum weight needed.
Routine Permit Limits
- Length: Up to 120′
- Width: Up to 18′
- Height: Up to 18′
- Weight Limits:
- Steer axle: 12,100 lbs (11″ tires)
- Single: 24,000 lbs
- Tandem: 45,000 lbs
- Tridem: 60,000 lbs
- Quad: 68,000 lbs
- Superload classification: Exceeds above dimensions or >150,000 lbs
Escort Requirements
- Length:
- 120′: 1 escort
- Width:
- Two-lane highways: 14’6″-16′ requires 1 escort OR amber warning lights
- Two-lane highways: Over 16′ requires 2 escorts
- Four-lane highways: 16′ requires 1 escort
- All roads: 18′ requires official escort unless exempted
- Height:
- 18′: 1 escort plus utility clearances required
Seasonal Considerations
- Spring thaw restrictions (Feb–May): Non-interstate routes affected
- Limits range from 6–8 tons per axle
- Expensive ton-mile exceptions available
Safety & Compliance
- Signage:
- “Oversize Load” sign required when load is over 75′ long
- Markings:
- Flags required on traffic sides of the load
- No signs required for overwidth/overheight only
- Amber warning lights can be used in lieu of escorts (in some cases)