You cannot exceed tire rating or state posted limit for the max load on a tire, for example in some state it is 650 pounds per inch of tire width. You have to know both limits, and whichever is the lesser limit is the one that will determine your max permitted weight. Two of the most important things for determining max permitted weight are: #1) tire weight limit and #2) single axle and axle group limit. Multiple things go towards calculating the maximum permitted weight for an axle or an axle group. (State limits are often higher than the federal limits). Maximum legal weight for each axle is determined by the federal bridge formula, federal limits for a single axle and axle groups (mentioned above) and single axle and axle groups legal limits posted by each state. There are of course exception and special permits for divisible loads, you have to consult that with the state. The overweight permits are for non-divisible loads, for example a piece of machinery that cannot easily be disassembled to reduce it's weight. That is, even though you can technically have up to 46,000 pounds on a tandem if you purchase a permit, most states will not issue that permit if you can simply unload the excess weight (e.g. Note, generally the states will not issue overweight permits for divisble loads. That is, you can load your tandem up to 34,000 without purchasing a permit, you can load 34,000.46,000 with a permit, and if your tandem is loaded over 46,000 you cannot legally enter the state of Texas. When you know those two numbers, you'll have three ranges, for example for Texas, maximum legal weight on a tandem is 34,000 pounds and maximum permitted weight is 46,000 pounds. State limits are the most important ones, as these will determine how much and if you can move within that state.Īgain, there are two numbers you need to know, the maximum legal and maximum permitted weight. 127).Īlmost everything else you need to know are the state level regulations. Gross vehicle weight is limited to 80,000 pounds (23 U.S.C. In addition to Bridge Formula weight limits, Federal law states that single axles are limited to 20,000 pounds, and axles spaced more than 40 inches and not more than 96 inches apart (tandem axles) are limited to 34,000 pounds.
![legal axle weight distribution legal axle weight distribution](https://static.pakwheels.com/2016/09/AWD1-550x360.jpg)
Legal axle weight distribution drivers#
Also mind that trying to get around the limits by falsifying the weights on your overweight permit may be a felony.Ĭonsequently, it is important that both drivers and dispatchers understand truck loading and weight limits for axles and axle groups even before accepting the load.
![legal axle weight distribution legal axle weight distribution](https://vehiclecompliance.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/CVC_FACEBOOK_IMAGE.png)
You can see an overview of overweight fines by state here.Īdditionally most states classify violation of overweight limits as a misdemeanor, and while not a felony, may be punishable by periods of probation, community service, and/or jail time that may be weeks, part time, and up to a year. Most states will also add court costs that may double the total cost of the fine.
![legal axle weight distribution legal axle weight distribution](https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freight/publications/brdg_frm_wghts/images/fig8.gif)
Legal axle weight distribution driver#
The fines for a grossly overweight vehicle can reach tens of thousands of dollars, and when a fine is levied for an overweight condition, it is the driver who will be cited and have that citation on his driving record. If you get caught overweight on an axle, gross vehicle weight, or worse haven’t purchased an overweight permit, the consequences can be devastating. Fixing roads is a huge expense to the state, so they will transfer that expense to you. Why axle weight limits are important to truckers