Our expertise in the pipeline industry allows us to help our customers in Michigan and beyond understand how to handle large hauls most effectively. As trucking brokers, Osage Specialized Transport helps connect our customers to transportation services that best match their needs. No matter your load, we have the industry expertise to save you time and energy.
We know how complicated moving big loads can be, but we are also keenly aware of the rules, standards, and regulations we must follow. Read on if you’re wondering what goes into the oversize permit process.
Why is A Permit Needed?
You may think that getting a permit seems unnecessary, but permits are used to create safer roads and make proceedings easier if anything goes wrong. The Michigan Vehicle Code sets legal limits for loads or vehicles. If you have a load that you cannot reduce or transport in other ways, you can apply for a permit, which lets you transport your load even though it exceeds the normal size restrictions.
What Makes a Load Oversized?
There are a lot of parameters that you must follow for big loads. Factors like length, height, and weight define oversized loads. Michigan’s Maximum Legal Truck Loadings and Dimensions will give you the specifications you must follow. It gives general guidelines and any exceptions there may be to the rule. The Michigan Center for Truck Safety updates the standards, and you can find hotlines and guidebooks that can help you answer any outstanding questions about oversized loads.
Are There Different Types of Permits?
Not all permits for oversized loads are the same, and in Michigan, there are two types of permits that either companies or individuals can get. You can either get a single-trip permit or an extended permit. The permit you choose will depend on your needs for transporting items.
Should I Choose an Extended or Single Trip Permit?
A single-trip permit is given for a five-day period, and you can only use it for one trip; however, you can choose to issue a single-trip permit that includes a return trip. Extended permits are available for those who will be transporting more often. These permits are given each year, including categories like modular or mobile home, pipe and pole, agricultural, construction, and miscellaneous.
What’s the Cost of Permits?
The cost of a permit depends on the type of permit you choose and the classification of the permit. A single trip permit will cost $15 for an oversize permit, while for an oversize/overweight permit, you will have to pay $50. Extended permits cost more, but they last a whole year. For an extended permit, oversize permits cost $30 and overweight permits cost $100. These permits are pro-rated, which means the price is adjusted depending on the fee schedule and when the permit expires. These permits are paid for on the MDOT Permit Gateway, and you can use the shopping cart option to pay through electronic checks, credit cards, or debit cards. Paying for your permit couldn’t be easier with the gateway.
Where Do I Get Permits?
You can get permits online using the MDOT Permit Gateway, which allows you to create and renew permits. This gateway can be used for both extended and single-trip permits. You can also use a permit service for both types of permits, but all permits must be registered with the MDOT Permit Gateway.
How Long Does It Take to Get My Permit?
Permits are fairly fast, but you must leave before you get your permit, so be aware that permits can take days or weeks. Allocating the proper time to get your permit is one of the most important factors you’ll want to consider.
Single-trip permits will take less time for you to receive. Generally, you can get these permits in 12 business hours. However, you may have to follow up before getting your permit if you have any incomplete or incorrect information. This follow-up will delay how long it takes to get your permit. You can apply for single-trip permits up to 7 business days in advance.
Extended permits take significantly longer than single-trip permits. The general time it takes to receive one of these permits is around two to three weeks from when MDOT gets your application. Again, an application with incorrect or incomplete information will cause delays in how long it takes to get your permit, and you will have to correct any incomplete information. Make sure that if you already have a permit, you allot enough time to get your new one before the old one expires. You can apply up to 60 days before an old permit expires, and it is advised that you apply at least 30 days in advance to guarantee you get your permit in time.
How Do I Get My Permit
Your permit will arrive via email address, so you have to ensure that you enter the proper email address when going through the application process. This information can also be accessed through the Permit Gateway, where you can print your permit. If you don’t see your permit in your email, you should check your spam folder because sometimes the permit gets directed there depending on your email provider. In any case, you can use the gateway to select My Permits and then print any permits you need.
Choose Osage Specialized Transport
When you need something hauled long distances, we’re here to help. We have over forty years of experience, allowing us to create industry connections, learn the best practices, and understand how to give our clients the best possible outcomes. Reach out today to get an estimate. Our company has been regionally recognized for our quality services and customer care. Your products, goods, or equipment will be in good hands when you choose Osage Specialized Transport. We can’t wait to work with you!