Knowing How to Interpret Michigan Oversize Permits

Moving loads that are larger than the state's permitted weight and size restrictions requires a Michigan oversize permits. Oversized and overweight items may be transported more easily and safely thanks to these permissions. The various permit categories that are available, the application procedure, and the rules that need to be adhered to when carrying such loads in Michigan are described below.

The Different Types of Michigan Oversize Permits

The first type of permit is a single-trip or temporary permit, which is valid for a single trip and usually lasts for 72 hours. Under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) Program, they can be utilized in lieu of state registration.

Overdimension/Overweight Permits: - Necessary for loads exceeding the authorized weights and dimensions. These permits must be obtained prior to entering the state and are good for five travel days.

Superload Permits: - Required for loads that are very big or huge. Because of the necessary paperwork, including route surveys and shipper letters, the approval of these licenses might take up to 10 days.

Michigan Operating Hours and Travel Restrictions

The following are the standard operating hours: Usually, loads move from sunrise to sunset. Currently, Michigan is testing weekend travel for loads up to 10 feet wide, 14 feet tall, and 90 feet long. This allows movement on Saturdays and Sundays from daytime until 3:00 PM.

Loads larger than 12 feet in width or 90 feet in length are not permitted to travel between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM or between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM in several counties (Genesee, Ingham, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Muskegon, Macomb, Oakland, Saginaw, Washtenaw, and Wayne). Additionally, significant holidays and holiday weekends are off-limits to travel.

Important Things to Think About during Bridge Crossings

The Mackinaw Bridge: At least 24 hours before to crossing, the Mackinaw Bridge Authority must be notified. An escort is given free of charge for load that are heavier or wider than the allowed 10 feet. When winds hit 25 mph, crossings are forbidden.

Ambassador Bridge: Extra fees apply to oversized load going between Detroit and Windsor. With restricted crossing hours from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays, a one-day notice could be required.

Legal Aspects and Typical Permit Restrictions

When asking for permissions, it is essential to comprehend the legal aspects:

Legal Dimensions: On approved highways, semi-trailers may be up to 53 feet long (50 feet on unmarked roads).
On approved highways, the maximum width is 8 feet 6 inches; on other roads, it is 8 feet.
13 feet 6 inches is the maximum height allowed.
A maximum gross weight of 80,000 pounds is set.

The maximum length allowed under the routine permit is 150 feet.
Up to 16 feet in width is possible (14 feet during spring thaw limits).
Although shippers and drivers must find safe methods for heights beyond 13 feet 6 inches, heights can go up to 15 feet.

All lift axles must be on the ground, and weight restrictions are decided case-by-case.

Conditions for Escorts

The size of the load determines the escort requirements:

One escort is needed for loads above 90 feet, and two escorts are needed for loads over 100 feet.

Width: One escort is required for loads above 12 feet, and two escorts are needed for loads over 14 feet.

For loads above 14 feet 5 inches, one escort with a height pole is required; for loads exceeding 15 feet, two escorts and a route survey are needed.

Restrictions on Seasonal Load

Usually, seasonal load limits take place between February and April. In this time frame:

Permits for overweight are not granted.
It is possible to lower the maximum axle weight by up to 35%.

Safety precautions: lights, flags, and signage

Every overdimensional load needs to be properly marked:

It is required that "Oversize Load" indicators be placed on the vehicle's front and rear.
Every corner of the load should have a flag, with extra flags at the broadest spots.
It is necessary to have a flag during the day and a red light or lantern at night for loads that have a rear overhang of four feet or more.

Note Trucking is committed to making sure your big loads abide by all Michigan laws so that the permits process goes smoothly. From Michigan trip permits and superload permits to Michigan single-trip/temporary permits, we have you covered. Please visit our Michigan Overweight Permits login page or get in touch with us for further details or help applying for permits. All of your Michigan DOT permit needs may be met by Note Trucking.

Summary

For trucking businesses hoping to operate effectively in Michigan, it is essential to comprehend the state's oversize permit requirements. You can guarantee compliance while reducing delays by being knowledgeable about the several kinds of licenses that are available, the application process, the operation hours, and the safety precautions that must be taken while moving large loads. This procedure is made much simpler when you work with professionals like Note Trucking, freeing you up to concentrate on transporting your goods over Michigan's roadways in a safe and lawful manner. Please get in touch if you need help or have any queries about your permission requirements!