Legal Limits for Flatbed Loads

In the United States, the standard legal limits for flatbed loads on most highways are:

• Width: 8 feet 6 inches (102 inches)
• Height: 13 feet 6 inches (162 inches) — varies slightly by state
• Length: 48 to 53 feet (trailer length)
• Gross Vehicle Weight: 80,000 pounds (including truck, trailer, and load)

Note: These are general federal guidelines. Actual limits can vary by state, route, and specific axle configuration.

Need help determining if your load is oversized?

Contact us at:

Pilot Car Company – 503-775-6250.

We’ll help you understand the requirements and provide professional escort services across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

When Is a Load Considered Oversized?

A load becomes oversize (requires special permits) when it exceeds any of these limits:

• Wider than 8’6″
• Taller than 13’6″ (or 14′ in some western states)
• Longer than 53 feet (trailer) or overall combination length limits
• Heavier than 80,000 pounds gross

Important: Even if total weight is under 80,000 lbs, you can still be overweight if you exceed per-axle limits (typically 20,000 lbs single axle / 34,000 lbs tandem).

Pilot Car / Escort Requirements

Most states require pilot/escort vehicles when a load exceeds:

• 12 feet wide → Usually 1 pilot car
• 14 feet wide → Often 2 pilot cars (front + rear)
• 14’6″ high → Front pilot with height pole
• Long loads (90–110+ feet) → Rear or front escort depending on overhang

Other Key Rules

• Flags & Lights: Red flags and amber warning lights are required on all oversize loads.
• Travel Restrictions: Many states only allow oversize moves during daylight hours (30 minutes after sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset), weekdays only, and with holiday/weekend restrictions.
• Responsibility: The carrier/driver is responsible for obtaining all permits. Loads that can be reasonably broken down or reduced in size/weight usually cannot be permitted as oversize.