IRP Trucks, Your Go-To Permits Agency at 630-847-0241 for All Your Trucking Needs, Provides an In-Depth Resource on Navigating the Complexities of Iowa Oversize Permits.

What Are Iowa Oversize Allowances?

Vehicles that are larger than the allowed dimensions established by the Iowa Department of Transport (DOT) need Iowa Oversize Permits These permits make it easier to move larger loads safely while following state rules. It is very important to get a permit before you enter the state because each one is only valid  for five days.

Sizes and weight limits that are legal

For vehicles to be allowed to drive in Iowa without a permit, they must fit the following dimensions:

It's 53 feet long with the trailer and load on it, 8 feet 6 inches wide, and 13 feet 6 inches high. It weighs 80,000 pounds gross.

The typical permit limits are as follows for those who need to move larger loads:

- Length: 120 feet -

Width: 18 feet –

Height: 18 feet -
Limits on weight:
- Single Axle: 20,000 pounds
- Tandem Axle: 46,000 pounds
- Tridem Axle: 60,000 pounds
- Quad Axle: 80,000 pounds

Super loads are loads that are larger than these dimensions and need special permits.

Operating Times and Travel Restrictions

Vehicles that are allowed to run constantly seven days a week must meet certain requirements. For vehicles to be able to drive nonstop, the roads must be at least 22 feet wide and the lanes must be at least 11 feet wide. Anyone can drive a vehicle that is up to 100 feet long, 11 feet wide, and 14 feet 6 inches high. The trip window for heavier loads, however, is limited to 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.

There are more rules that apply in cities like Des Moines. One example is that you can't drive on I-235 between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, which are peak traffic times, Monday through Friday.

Need for an Escort for Oversized Loads

Based on their dimensions, some oversized loads need to be escorted.

There should be one escort or an orange rotating light for every 85 feet of length. There should be one escort for every 120 feet of length. There should be one escort for every 14 feet 6 inches of height.

If the load width is more than half of the width of the two-lane highway, more guards may be needed to make sure everyone stays safe.

Safety Rules: Lights and Signs

When transporting oversized loads in Iowa, it is very important to follow safety rules. Here are the most important specs:

- "Oversize Load" signs must be put up if the vehicle is longer than 75 feet
- Width of 8 feet 6 inches
- Height of 14 feet 4 inches

At the ends of the load, flags must be attached, and in some cases, an amber rotating light must be used to make it easier to see during travel.

to Get Your DOT Permit in Iowa

The Iowa Department of Transportation has an online application method that you can use to apply for a Iowa DOT Permit. Parts of the process are:

1. Registering for an account on the Iowa DOT’s website.
2. Completing the appropriate application form.
3. Submitting your application along with payment.

You can call the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) at 630-847-0241 or email them at info@irptrucks.com for more help or to find out about the status of your application.

Conclusion

Finding your way around the rules for Iowa Overweight Permits can be hard, but with IRP Trucks, you have a trustworthy partner to help you through the whole process. We can help you get a Iowa DOT Permit, figure out how to log in to your Iowa Oversize Permits account, or get more information about what is needed in Iowa for oversize permits. Call us at 630-847-0241 right now if you need help or have questions.