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Is My Load Oversize?
Enter your load dimensions and weight to instantly find out if permits are required, what pilot car or escort rules apply, and what states have different thresholds.
Enter Load Dimensions
Interactive engine launching Q2 2026. Use the reference tables below for immediate guidance.
Federal Legal Load Limits — Quick Reference
Max Width
8'6"
Permit required if > 8.5 ft
Max Height
13'6"
Permit required if > 13.5 ft
Max Length
53'
Permit required if > 53 ft
Max GVW
80,000 lbs
Permit required if > 80k
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Escort / Pilot Car Requirements Matrix
| Trigger Dimension | Escort Requirement | Typical States |
|---|---|---|
| Width 10"“12 ft | 1 escort vehicle (front or rear per state) | Most US states |
| Width 12"“14 ft | 1 front escort + 1 rear escort vehicle | Most US states |
| Width 14"“16 ft | 2 escorts + high pole operator (some states) | AZ, TX, CA, WA, OR, NV |
| Width 16+ ft | 2 escorts + high pole + police escort | Most US states (superload) |
| Height 14"“15 ft | High pole operator required | AZ, TX, NM, CA |
| Height 15+ ft | High pole + police escort (many states) | Most US states |
| Length 100+ ft | Rear steer / steerman operator | CA, AZ, TX, OR, NV, WA |
Reference Q1 2026. Requirements vary by state. Always confirm with the permit office before dispatch.
Load Classification FAQs
What makes a load oversize in the US?+
A load is oversize if it exceeds any of: width over 8.5 ft, height over 13.5 ft, length over 53 ft (standard trailer), or weight over 80,000 lbs GVW. Exceeding any of these requires an oversize permit in every state traveled through.
When is a pilot car required?+
A pilot car is required when a load exceeds state-specific width, height, or length thresholds. In most US states, loads over 12 ft wide require at least one pilot car. At 14+ ft wide, two are typically required. At 16+ ft wide, police escorts are additionally required in most states.
What is the maximum legal width without a permit?+
8 feet 6 inches (8.5 ft) on most US highways. Some states allow slightly different legal widths on certain road classes, but any load exceeding 8.5 ft requires an oversize permit in virtually all states.
Is length or weight more important for determining if a load is oversize?+
Both matter independently. A load can be legal in weight but oversize in width, or legal in dimensions but overweight. You need a permit if you exceed any single threshold — they are not averaged or combined.