Texas Oversize & Heavy Haul 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.
Oversize Permits Basics
Single-trip permits valid for 3–5 days (required before entering Texas).
Operating window: ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset (including weekends).
Night travel: Allowed on interstates for loads ≤10′ wide, ≤14′ high, ≤100′ long with legal overhang.
Overweight Permits may operate continuously.
Legal dimensions for heavy haul trucks
- Length: 59 feet (semi-trailer standard)
- Overhang:
- 2 feet front maximum
- 4 feet rear maximum
- Width: 8 feet 6 inches
- Height: 14 feet
- Weight Limits:
- Gross: 80,000 pounds
- Single Axle: 20,000 pounds
- Tandem Axle: 34,000 pounds
Routine Permit Limits
- Width: Up to 20 feet (16 feet on interstates)
- Height: Up to 18 feet 11 inches
- Weight:
- Single Axle: 25,000 pounds
- Quad Axle: 70,000 pounds
Super Load Requirements
- Superloads exceeding routine limits require:
- Route planning for overweight vehicles
- Physical route survey
- Special approval (weeks for loads >254,000 lbs or >200,000 lbs with <95′ axle spacing)
Escort Requirements
- Length:
- 110′: 1 escort
- 125′: 2 escorts
- Width:
- 14′: 1 escort
- 16′: 2 escorts
- Height:
- 17′: 1 escort
- 18′: 2 escorts
- Escorts needed for transporting large machinery
Oversize Load Safety Regulations
- Flatbed restriction: Cannot permit both width and height simultaneously
- Marking and signage requirements for oversize loads
- Flagging: Red flags required at all extremities
- Permit accuracy: Verify all dimensions before movement
Oversize Transport Logistics
- Check city/county curfews listed on permits
- Measure loaded dimensions precisely
- Confirm axle weights meet state requirements
- Use specific, detailed load descriptions
- Review permits thoroughly before transport
Best practices for managing heavy haul logistics
- Use Safe Travel USA for temporary restrictions
- Allow extra time for super load approvals
- Maintain complete documentation
- Train drivers on Texas-specific compliance rules