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North Carolina Oversize Permit, Wide and Heavy Haul Information

North Carolina | NC

Legal Maximums: Legal Dimensional Limits. Permits will be required if these dimensions are exceeded.

Permit Maximums: Upper limits for permissible dimensions. Loads exceeding these measurements may be categorized as ‘super loads’ in some states, potentially requiring extended processing times and additional regulatory review.

Pilot Car Needed: Loads surpassing these measurements require an escort vehicle or pilot car.

Legal Maximums
Length53′ 0″
Overhang 
– Total10′ 0″
– Front5′ 0″
– Back5′ 0″
Width8′ 6″
Height13′ 6″
Weight80,000 lbs.
Permit Maximums
Length105′ 0″
Width15′ 0″
HeightN/A
Weight132,000 lbs.
Pilot Car Needed
Length110′ 0″
Overhang 
– Total30′ 0″
– Front15′ 0″
– Back15′ 0″
Width12′ 0″
Height14′ 5″
Weight149,999 lbs.

North Carolina Oversize and Overweight Trucking Regulations - Safety, Signage, and Visibility Requirements

Key Points for Oversize Transport in North Carolina

  • Daylight operations only, Monday through Saturday
  • “Oversize Load” signs required for loads exceeding 10′ wide
  • Specific flag requirements for loads over 8’6″ wide

Operating Hours and Travel Restrictions in North Carolina

Standard Operating Hours

  • Oversize loads: Permitted to travel only during daylight hours, Monday through Saturday
  • Sunday travel: Prohibited for all oversized loads
  • Night travel: Not allowed for oversize loads

Urban Area Restrictions

Loads over ten feet wide face additional restrictions within ten miles of major cities:

  • Charlotte
  • Raleigh
  • Durham
  • Chapel Hill

Restricted hours in these areas: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Holiday Restrictions

Oversize loads may not travel on major holidays or holiday weekends in North Carolina, including all federal holidays.

Overweight Load Considerations

Loads that are only overweight but within acceptable dimensional parameters are not subject to transportation restrictions but still require a permit.

Safety First: Equipment Requirements for Oversize Loads

Signage Requirements

  • Required for all loads exceeding 10 feet in width
  • “Oversize Load” signs must be displayed on both front and rear of vehicles and cargo

Flag Protocol

  • Required for loads over 8 feet 6 inches wide
  • Flags must be mounted at the widest point of the load and on each corner
  • Flags should not increase the overall width of the load
  • Rear overhangs exceeding 4 inches require a flag

Lighting Guidelines

  • Lights are required at night on the rear of any overhang exceeding 4 inches

Securing Your North Carolina Oversize Permit

Permit Types and Validity

  • Single-use permits are valid for ten days

How to Obtain a Permit

  • Online: Apply through the state permit office website
  • Phone: Call the North Carolina Department of Transportation at 1-888-574-6683

Mastering Oversize Transport in the Tar Heel State

Successfully navigating North Carolina with oversize and overweight loads requires a thorough understanding of the state’s specific regulations. From daylight-only operations to urban area curfews, proper planning is essential. By adhering to signage, flag, and lighting requirements, respecting holiday restrictions, and securing the appropriate permits, transporters can ensure smooth and compliant journeys across North Carolina’s diverse landscape. Remember to pay special attention to the restrictions near major cities and plan your routes accordingly. With careful preparation and compliance with North Carolina’s guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to handle oversize transport challenges in this southeastern state.

Select your desired state below for detailed permit guidelines.

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