How to Choose an Oversize Load Permit Company

Choosing the right oversize load permit company for your heavy haul or trucking and logistics company deserves some strong consideration.

Moving an oversize load goes well beyond the transportation itself and includes compliance, risk management and timing, making it essential to work with an oversize load permit company that understands all the various insurance and permit regulations, and state and county requirements.

Here are some tips to help you choose the right oversize load permit company, whether you find yourself needing oversize load permits for the first time, for a specific state or county you’re having trouble with, or if you are looking for a new permit partner to work with your team.

1. Define Your Needs
   
   Before comparing companies, define what your needs are in choosing an oversize load permit company to work with, including:
   • States and cities/counties you will be traveling through
   • Type of types of loads you will be hauling along with each load’s uniqueness when it comes to width, height, length and weight
   • Additional services such as route surveys, pilot cars and any specialized equipment – if you need added services you want to work with a company who can provide you with all
   • Frequency of your shipments so you can clearly communicate your needs
     
     
2. Experience
   
   When it comes to heavy haul, choosing a company with a strong track record and experience is extremely important. Look at the following requirements so you know you are working with a company with the right amount of experience:
   • Average years of industry experience per oversize load permit agent
   • Years the oversize load permit company has been in business
   • Industry reputation – reviews, testimonials, branding
   • Service offerings – make sure you’re working with a company who can handle permits in house as well as any other services you may need when hauling an oversize load, including route surveys and pilot cars
   • Industries served – make sure they can help no matter the sector you’re hauling in such as aerospace, military, wind, construction, modular homes or industrial machinery
   • Compliance – look to see how the permit company you are considering stays up to date with rules and regulations for state and local agencies
   • Knowledge and experience with the various types of permits: single trip, temporary permits, variance (superload) and annual permits
     
     
3. Multi-State & County Expertise
   
   You want to work with an oversize permit service that has experience in all 48 states as well as nationwide cities, counties, townships and Indian reservations. Working with a permit service that has expertise isolated to only a state or two is not enough. Make sure the permit service you choose has the following knowledge:
   • A deep understanding of the rules & regulations in the upper 48 states
   • Experience with local and county jurisdictions
   • Relationships with states and local/county jurisdictions
     
     
4. Routing
   
   Effective route planning for heavy loads begins by knowing the load’s needs. This may involve a route survey to find low bridges and power lines. At WCS, our surveyors check for these obstacles and assess any environmental issues to ensure safe transport.
   
   A permit service with years of routing experience will help you save time and money by taking you through states that maximize your travel time while avoiding curfews, and by minimizing your route to save you unnecessary trip miles.
   
   
5. Turnaround Time
   
   In logistics, time is money. Ask about average processing time and the ability to handle a rush of permits. Companies should never be at more than 80% capacity to handle an influx in permit work and your specific needs. Look for companies with a seasoned staff of oversize permit writers.
   
   
6. Comprehensive Services
   
   The best oversize load permit service companies offer support beyond permits, and act as a one-stop shop to reduce the need to juggle multiple vendors. Look for added services like:
   • Route surveys and planning
   • Pilot/car escort coordination
   • Superload assistance
   • Traffic control planning
   • Specialized trucking equipment like oversize load signs and lights
     
     
7. Liability
   
   If you are outsourcing your permits, surveys, and more to a permit service it is important that the service has an up-to-date Errors & Omissions policy to cover you from major situations that can occur in heavy haul transport. Don’t accept a general liability policy as their proof of insurance. There are a lot of one-off permit services who do not provide this coverage, so protect yourself from potential catastrophes by asking about specific coverage. 
   
   
8. Reviews and References
   
   Client feedback offers valuable insight into reliability and service quality. Ask for references or look for reviews and testimonials from companies in your industry. Consistent positive feedback is a strong indicator of dependable service.
   
   
9. Assess Communication and Support
   
   Clear, proactive communication is essential. You want a company that keeps you updated on permit status, potential delays, and route changes. Responsive customer support can save you from unexpected issues on the road. Look for companies that help communicate with you through:
   • An online order system where you can see order history and more
   • A mobile application to track oversize load permits status
   • An online resource to keep up with permit regulations and more
     
     
10. Compare Pricing—But Don’t Go Cheap
    
    While cost matters, the lowest price isn’t always the best choice. Errors, delays, or poor planning can cost far more than a slightly higher service fee. Focus on value: expertise, speed, and reliability.