What is a superload?

A superload is a load so large or heavy that it falls outside a state's normal oversize-permit range and needs special handling — engineering review, bridge analysis, route surveys, and longer lead times.

There is no single national definition. Each state sets its own threshold, and they genuinely differ:

• Some define it by weight (for example, over 120,000 to 200,000 lb gross, depending on the state).
• Others define it by dimension (for example, over 16 ft wide or 16 ft high).
• Many use a combination, and a few states do not use the term at all — handling extreme loads case by case.

Practically, a superload means: apply early (often 5 to 14 business days ahead), expect a bridge or structural review, and plan for escorts and possibly police coordination.

Check whether your load crosses a state's superload threshold in the Permit & Escort Checker — the "compare all states" table shows it for every region at once.

Superload rules and lead times are set by the issuing DOT and change. Confirm before you plan the move.