Which States Have Oversize Freight Restrictions on Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2023?

In 2023, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, previously known as Columbus Day, is Monday, October 9. (Coincidentally, that is also Thanksgiving Day in Canada.)

How does this holiday impact the trucking industry? As on most holidays, drivers are hard at work transporting goods across the country. Dry vans and standard flatbed loads are not impacted by the holiday.

However, in many states, October 9 is a government holiday. This means that some state employees will be enjoying a day off. Those states will have closures and additional restrictions for applying for an oversize freight permit or hauling oversize freight.

After 68 years in the trucking industry, Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) has dealt with holiday closures and restrictions in all 50 states. Our priority is safely hauling freight within established guidelines every day. 

Here is a list of states that have closures for Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Note: Each state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) website is always the best source of information regarding permitting requirements. 

Which States Have Over-Dimensional Freight Hauling Restrictions for Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day?

How Can I Find a Full Schedule of State Permit Office Closures?

Note: permits are required for each state you will be driving through with over-dimensional freight. No matter the origin or destination points of your oversize load, plan ahead to obtain a permit for any of these states. 

What Are Oversize Freight Travel Restrictions? 

Oversize/overweight (OSOW) freight, which exceeds legal load limits in one or more dimension, requires a permit in each jurisdiction it passes through. Passes must be obtained before traveling through each state to avoid additional fines and delays. 

Over-dimensional freight also requires special considerations for the route. For example, an overheight load may need a route that avoids certain bridges. Over-dimensional freight greater than a certain size is considered heavy haul, which means additional restrictions. 

If your load is over-dimensional in at least one dimension (length, width, height or weight), it will need permits. Cargo that is over-dimensional in more than one dimension does not require more than one permit per jurisdiction. 

Oversized Freight Hauling with a Transportation Partner

For regular oversize loads, the oversize freight permitting process can usually be completed within a few hours on the DOT website. Holiday hours may impact the time required to apply for and receive a permit. 

If you are new to shipping over-dimensional freight, an experienced broker or carrier will know the ins and outs of obtaining permits — including which jurisdictions have nighttime or holiday restrictions, how to obtain an escort vehicle if needed, and route planning services. 

An experienced carrier or broker may also be able to help you transport the load without permitting. Using a step-deck trailer, dividing the freight into multiple loads, transloading or using another creative solution might be options to keep the freight within legal limits. 

Another option for shipping remote freight is an oversize/overweight permit company. They will help you obtain needed permits on time, without the need for you to research requirements in each jurisdiction. 

How Holiday Closures Impact OSOW Freight Hauling

Planning ahead is always critical in the transportation industry. Variables like government holidays can complicate the logistics of your freight in ways you may not expect. 

Working with experienced brokers or carriers can streamline the permitting process and help navigate any hurdles. With the right research, support and understanding of the regulations, you can transport oversize loads safely and efficiently.

One way to prepare for OSOW shipping is with the Heavy Haul Carrier Selection Checklist. Download this free tool to find the best shipping partner for your unique needs. If you prefer to ask questions in person, contact ATS. Our experienced team is happy to help.