Quebec Oversize Load Transport Guide: Regulations & Compliance
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 oversized load transportation in Quebec requires careful planning to meet wide load regulations and ensure heavy load compliance. Whether you’re handling heavy equipment transport or machinery hauling services, understanding these rules is essential for safe and legal oversize load delivery.
Permit Requirements
- Single-trip permits valid for 7 days (must be obtained before entering Quebec)
- Permits issued in French only—translation required for compliance
Operating Times for Oversize Transport Logistics
- Standard hours:
- ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset (Mon–Thu)
- ½ hour before sunrise to 3:00 PM on Fridays
- No travel on Sundays or holidays
- Peak-hour bans apply to:
- Loads over 12′ wide
- Over 90′ long
- Over 13′ rear overhang
Equipment & Safety Regulations
- Annual permits available for long wheelbase tractors
- Tridem drive tractors:
- Lift axles excluded from wheelbase measurement
- Spread axles:
- Permitted on 48′ trailers (must meet axle weight rules)
Legal Dimensions for Transporting Large Equipment
- Length: 53′ semi-trailer / 75′ overall
- Overhang: 6′6″ rear (must be flagged)
- Width: 8′6″
- Height: 13′6″
Weight Limits
- Steer axle: 12,000 lbs
- Single axle: 22,020 lbs
- Tandem axle: 39,600 lbs
- Tridem axle: 46,000 lbs
Routine Permit Limits
- Length: Up to 131′
- Overhang: Up to 13′ front or rear
- Width: Up to 16′
- Height: Up to 16′
- Note: Weight limits vary by axle and route
Escort Requirements for Heavy Equipment Oversize Shipping
- Length:
- Over 90′: 1 escort
- Over 130′: 2 escorts
- Overhang:
- Over 13′ rear: 1 escort
- Over 6′6″ front: 1 front escort
- Width:
- Over 12′3″: 1 escort (all highways)
- Over 14′4″: 2 escorts
- Over 17′5″: Police escort with special conditions
- Height:
- Over 14′9″: 1 escort with height pole
Signs, Flags & Lights for Oversize Load Safety
- Flags:
- Required on front/rear corners and overhang extremities
- Lighting:
- Red light on rear overhang extremities
- Amber beacon visible from all directions
- Signage:
- “D” signs mandatory when:
- Width > 10′
- Length > 82′
- Height > 14′
- “Oversize Load” signs not accepted
- Signs must be removed or covered when not in use
- “D” signs mandatory when: