The short answer: In Florida, any load that exceeds the legal limits for a standard truck — roughly over 8.5 ft wide, 13.5 ft tall, 53 ft long, or 80,000 lb — needs a state over-dimensional or overweight permit, a planned route, and often pilot or escort vehicles. A heavy-haul carrier handles the permits and escorts for you.
What triggers a permit?
A load needs a permit once it’s over-width, over-height, over-length, or overweight beyond the legal thresholds. The exact trigger depends on the route and whether the load stays in Florida or crosses state lines — each state has its own limits and permits.
Types of permits
- Over-dimensional permits — for loads past legal width, height, or length.
- Overweight permits — for loads past axle or gross-weight limits.
- Trip vs. annual permits — a single-move permit, or a blanket permit for repeat moves within limits.
- Superload permits — for extreme oversize or overweight loads, with extra engineering and review.
Route surveys and escorts
Bigger loads need an engineered route survey — confirming bridges, overpasses, clearances, and turns — and pilot or police escorts on the stretches that require them. The permit itself often dictates travel hours, escort counts, and the exact approved route.
Superloads and multi-agency coordination
The largest loads cross several jurisdictions and need coordination among the state DOT, utilities, and sometimes law enforcement. A heavy-haul carrier manages that coordination so the move stays legal end to end.
Who handles the permits?
You don’t have to. A heavy-haul carrier pulls the permits, plans the route, and schedules the escorts as part of the move — so the paperwork and compliance are handled with the haul.
Permits FAQ
What size load needs a permit in Florida?
Generally anything over about 8.5 ft wide, 13.5 ft tall, 53 ft long, or 80,000 lb — confirmed for your exact route.
Do you handle the permits and escorts?
Yes — route surveys, state permits, and pilot or police escorts, including superload coordination.
How long does it take to get a permit?
It varies by load and route — routine permits are quick; superloads take longer for engineering and review.
How much does it cost?
Permits and escorts are quoted with the haul, per job. Seasonal rates may vary.
Move an oversized load
Get a freight quote or call (561) 683-5000 — we handle the permits, route, and escorts.