WCS Permits & Pilot Cars - Oversize Load Permits

WCS PERMITS & PILOT CARS

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Hauling Oversize Loads in CA

Hauling oversize loads in California involves several steps.

In California, you need an oversize permit if your vehicle exceeds 8’6″ wide, 14’0″ high, 65′ long or 80,000 pounds. 

But the preparation does not end with obtaining oversize load permits. Oversize loads often need pilot cars and specialized equipment is required for travel, including oversize load signs and specialized oversize load LED lights for trucks. 

There are standard pilot car requirements when hauling an oversize load in California, but in some cases loads as little as 10-feet wide will require a pilot car. The state of California has some of the most strict pilot car requirements

California oversize load hauls also may require local city and county permits. Obtaining a state permit in California does not relieve you of the liability of cities and counties. Most California cities and counties require additional permits. Choosing not to obtain city or county permits raises liability concerns, specifically two. 

  1.  Ticket/fine: Fines for illegally traveling on city or county roads without a permit range from a few hundred dollars to $30,000 or more.
  2. Accident/Insurance: If you get into an accident while traveling without a permit on a city or county road, your insurance may deny you coverage costing you more than just money.


If you want to speak to a WCS Transportation Consultant about hauling an oversize load in California, call (888) 737-6483 now or contact us. 

Order California Oversize Permits Now
CA PILOT CAR REQUIREMENTS FOR HAULING OVERSIZE LOADS
Pilot Car Width:12’0″
Pilot Car Length:120’0"
Pilot Car Height:Greater than 17'0"
Pilot Car Overhang:Greater than 25'0"
Additional Info
LIGHTS & SIGNAGE REQUIRED TO HAUL OVERSIZE IN CA
Light Requirements (Night Only):Lights Specs:
- Side overhang, 12″ or more off the side of the
trailer and less than 120’0 long
- Steady Amber, visible for 300’0 located at front
and rear
- 120’0 Long or greater must have Red light visible
for 300’0 located at front and rear
- Rear overhang exceeding 3’0 must have steady
Red light, visible for 300’0 located at end of
overhang
Sign Requirements:Signage Specs:
Wording
- “OVERSIZE LOAD”
Size
- 12″ x 72″
Lettering:
- 2″ brush stroke
Colors:
- Black letters on Yellow background
Location:
- Front and rear of the transport vehicle
Flag Requirements:Flags Specs:
- 18″ x 18″ Red or fluorescent Orange flags required
- If the vehicle and/or equipment is operated other than during darkness

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WCS Permits & Pilot Cars - Oversize Load Permits

WCS Permits & Pilot Cars is North America’s oversize load permit authority. 

Phone: 888-737-6483

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