What counts as an oversize load?

A load is oversize when it exceeds a state's legal limits for width, height, length, or weight — commonly about 8 ft 6 in wide, 13 ft 6 in to 14 ft tall, and 80,000 lbs gross, though limits vary by state. Anything over needs an oversize/overweight permit. Use a free permit checker to confirm exactly what your load triggers in each state.

Do I arrange the permits and escorts, or does the carrier?

On most oversize moves the transport carrier handles the permits and arranges the required pilot cars / escorts as part of the job, and those costs appear on your quote. You should still understand what your load requires so you can compare quotes accurately and plan the timeline.

How far in advance should I book an oversize shipment?

Give as much lead time as possible. Standard oversize permits are often issued within a day or two, but superloads can take weeks because they may require route surveys and bridge/structural engineering. Daylight-only travel, weekend/holiday restrictions, and escort scheduling all add time, so booking early gets better carrier availability and pricing.

Shipper Guide

How to Ship an Oversize Load: A Step-by-Step Guide

New to moving oversize or heavy-haul freight? Here's the whole process in order — with a free tool for each step so you know exactly what your load needs before you book.

Home › How to Ship an Oversize Load

Step 1 — Confirm your load is actually oversize

Measure your load's width, height, length, and total weight. If any of them tops a state's legal limit (commonly ~8 ft 6 in wide, 13 ft 6 in–14 ft tall, 80,000 lbs), it needs an oversize/overweight permit. Enter your numbers in the free Permit & Escort Checker to see exactly what your load triggers in each state — permit, escorts, or superload.

Step 2 — Learn the rules in the states you'll cross

Every state sets its own legal limits, escort thresholds, and travel windows. Review the permit requirements by state and check when you're allowed to move — many states restrict night, weekend, and holiday travel. See the travel-day rules & curfews by state so timing doesn't surprise you.

Step 3 — Budget for permits, escorts, and transport

Your total cost is the transport rate plus per-state permit fees plus pilot car / escort service. Estimate the permit side with the Permit Cost Estimator, and read what drives the overall shipping price so you can compare quotes fairly.

Step 4 — Match the load to the right equipment

Tall or heavy loads need specialized trailers — a lowboy/RGN, step-deck, or multi-axle setup to stay under axle-weight limits. A good carrier will spec this for you; the glossary explains the trailer types and terms you'll hear.

Step 5 — Find a qualified carrier (and escorts)

Oversize freight needs an experienced, properly insured heavy-haul carrier — not a general freight broker who'll re-broker it. Browse vetted oversize transporters and, if your load needs them, pilot car / escort services. Look for the FMCSA-verified badge and completed-load reviews.

Step 6 — Get quotes on your specific move

With your dimensions, weight, and pickup/delivery locations in hand, request quotes. The more detail you give (exact size, whether it's non-divisible, crane needs, timing), the more accurate the pricing. It's free and no-obligation.

Get a free quote

Step 7 — Prepare for the move

Once booked, confirm the permitted route and travel window, make sure loading/unloading (and any crane) is arranged on both ends, and keep the permit and route paperwork with the load. Plan around daylight-only and curfew rules so the driver isn't stuck waiting.

Ready to move your load?

Start by checking exactly what your load needs, then get free quotes from vetted oversize carriers.

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This is a general process guide for planning purposes. Permit limits, escort requirements, and travel rules vary by state and change — always confirm current requirements with the state permit office and your carrier before moving a load.