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A visual guide to navigating state-by-state height regulations for your freight.
The overall height of your trailer and cargo is one of the most critical factors in freight shipping. While most states adhere to a 13’6″ limit, the western states, including Oregon, often allow for a more generous 14′ clearance. This map provides a crucial at-a-glance reference for route planning.
This map is an informational guideline. State laws can change. Always verify your route with one of our freight experts to ensure full compliance.
As a ‘green state’ on the map, Oregon allows for a legal height of 14′. This provides greater flexibility for shipping tall machinery and equipment. However, this advantage requires careful planning.
Once your shipment heads east and crosses into a ‘red state’ (like those past Texas), the legal limit drops to 13’6″. A load that was perfectly legal in California could instantly require an overheight permit. Our expertise is in planning routes that utilize the right trailer to keep your freight legal from door to door.
For open-deck freight where height is a factor, these are your primary options.
Dedicated use of a trailer for your shipment, ensuring direct transit and maximum security for your tall freight.
A cost-effective option where you share trailer space, ideal for single pieces of machinery or smaller tall loads.
Choosing the right trailer is essential to stay within legal height limits. Here are some examples of tall loads and why trailer selection matters.
Common questions about freight height and trailer selection.
A standard flatbed deck is about 5 feet (60 inches) high. If the legal height limit is 13'6" (162 inches), your cargo cannot be taller than 8'6" (102 inches). We always verify routes to ensure compliance.
A step-deck is crucial when your cargo is taller than 8'6". Its lower deck, typically around 3'4" (40 inches) high, allows for cargo up to 10'2" tall to remain within the 13'6" legal limit, avoiding most overheight permits.
Lowboy or RGN trailers have the lowest deck, often as low as 18-24 inches. This allows for cargo up to 11'6" or even 12' tall to be transported legally, making them essential for the tallest and heaviest machinery.
No, hotshot trailers are subject to the same overall height limits as larger trucks. However, their deck heights can vary, so it's crucial to match the right hotshot trailer to your specific load to ensure you stay under the legal maximum height.
Let our freight experts plan the perfect route with the right trailer for your tall cargo. Contact us for a comprehensive, compliant freight quote.