What Are the Federal Axle Weight Limits for Commercial Trucks?

Legal axle weight limits for commercial trucks in the U.S. are commonly 20,000 pounds on a single axle and 34,000 pounds on a tandem axle, with an 80,000-pound gross vehicle weight limit on interstate highways. However, actual legal weight depends on axle spacing, axle group configuration, state laws, and the route being used.

Important note: Every state has different regulations for the maximum gross vehicle weight (total weight of the loaded truck and trailer) allowed on their roads. These weight regulations are based on the state’s infrastructure and what the roads can safely support. 

Can a truck be overweight on one axle even if it is under 80,000 pounds gross?
Yes. A truck can be legal in total gross weight and still be overweight if too much weight is concentrated on a single axle or tandem axle group.

Legal Freight Limits: Trucking Industry Weight, Width, Height, and Length Limits

• Oversize load definition
• Legal limits for weight, width, height and length
• Permitting requirements
• Your role in successfully moving oversize freight

In the trucking industry, size matters. Freight size determines what type of vehicle will be used, the route it will travel and what additional costs and permits will be needed. 

8 Red Flags to Watch For When Choosing a Heavy Haul Carrier

Whenever you ship heavy haul cargo, safety is a significant concern. Keeping your freight secure, your reputation clean and, most importantly, the motoring public safe as cargo transits from A to B, takes expertise, planning and robust protocols.