ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE SC
South CarolinaOversize & overweight permits.
South Carolina permit products have different load bands and movement conditions. Check the loaded truck, state fee and pilot-car needs before dispatch.
General information only, not legal advice or a permit. Confirm with the issuing agency before you move. Read the disclaimer
AI-generated illustration · not to scale
- 01Legal size
What is legal without a permit?
Axle limits with a permit With a permit- Single20k lb
- Tandem40k lb
- Tridem or quad60k lb
- Legal axle weights depend on road class and enforcement tolerance; see the legal axle weights card.
The rule in full4 official sources
General width: 8′6″
Ordinary vehicle-and-load limit; safety-device, vehicle and load exceptions may apply.
Loaded height: 13′6″
Ordinary vehicle-and-load limit; listed exceptions and actual route clearances apply.
NN semitrailer: 48′
Federal National Network allowance for a tractor with one semitrailer. Longer trailers may qualify under state axle-position and route rules; local roads can differ.
Overall length: No NN cap*
*For a tractor with one compliant semitrailer on the National Network. Other combinations, trailers, projecting loads and local access have separate limits; see the state measurements below.
Interstate weight: 80,000 lb*
*Federal baseline, subject to the bridge formula, registration and postings: 20,000 lb single axle and 34,000 lb tandem. A particular configuration may have a lower limit; state grandfather allowances need verified spacing and route eligibility.
Legal size
Legal limits are 8′6″ wide and 13′6″ high. Length, overhang and permitted sizes depend on the setup and route.
Weight limits
Gross weight alone does not settle it in South Carolina. Check wheel and axle weights, groups, spacing, tire type, gross weight, setup, road class and the bridge formula.
Width
Legal width is 102 inches, not counting approved safety devices. Exceptions and permits are separate.
Height
Legal height is 13′6″. Car haulers and saddle-mount combinations have a narrow exception with its own permit and liability conditions.
Axle limits with a permit
With a permit: single 20,000 lb, tandem 40,000 lb, tridem or quad 60,000 lb. Legal axle weights depend on road class and enforcement tolerance; see the legal axle weights card.
Legal axle weights
On the Interstate, including all enforcement tolerances: Single axle: 20,000 lb. Tandem axle: 35,200 lb.
- 02Requirements
Where each requirement starts
Flags & lampsWidth over 12′12′ wide or wider: signs or banners on the front and rear, and 18″ square flags on the four outer corners of the load.
2SCDOT — Guidelines for Movement over South Carolina Highways of Oversize and Overweight (OSOW) Vehicles and Loads (Rev. 3/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026What official sources leave open17
Where South Carolina’s official sources disagree or say nothing, confirm with the agency before dispatch.
- SCDOT sources do not state any pilot car driver certification, training or out-of-state reciprocity.
- SCDOT sources do not say how to set the height pole; they require only a front escort with a height measuring device at 16′ high or more.
- SCDOT sources do not say whether an electronic permit on a phone or tablet is accepted; the guidelines say the signed permit is carried in the towing vehicle (permits may be delivered by e-mail).
- SCDOT sources do not state a USDOT number or operating-authority requirement for OSOW permits.
- No separate city or county OSOW permit process or contact is published; state law says the permit does not exempt the hauler from a city's ordinances.
- No crane-specific permit program is described in the SCDOT guidelines.
- SCDOT's OSOW page links only the 2026 holiday bulletin (a 2027 file was not found on 2026-10-13); the 2027 Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving dates are omitted.
- Conflict within the guidelines: Section L.4 caps permitted width at 16′, but Sections K and Q set fees up to 'over 22′' and police escorts for loads over 16′ wide; wider loads go through the exception request and Over 16′ Wide Application.
- Conflict within the guidelines: Section L.1 caps nondivisible length at 125′, but Section Q sets escort rules for loads over 150′ long.
- Conflict within the guidelines: Section L.2 caps rear overhang at 15′ (10′ on 48′–53′ trailers), but Section Q sets a rear escort for rear overhang over 15′ up to 25′.
- Insurance threshold wording differs: Section E.11 says over 180,000 lb; Section M.5 says 180,000 lb or greater (or 16′ wide or greater).
- Flag size: SC Code § 56-5-4630 requires at least a 12″ × 12″ red flag on a projecting load; the SCDOT permit guidelines require 18″ square flags.
- SC Code § 56-5-4140 caps an Interstate tandem at 35,200 lb including enforcement tolerances; it does not state the federal 34,000 lb tandem figure shown in the page's legal limits.
- SC Code § 56-5-4070 allows 53′ trailers in combinations; it does not state the 48′ National Network semitrailer figure shown in the page's legal limits.
- Office location differs: the 3/2026 guidelines list Room G-12, 955 Park Street; the current SCDOT OSOW page lists Room G4. The current page is newer.
- Axle limits differ within the guidelines: Section L.6 lists 20,000 lb single and 40,000 lb tandem as permit maximums, while Section E allows 48,000 lb tandems (55,000 lb tri-axles) on Oversize Truck Route Map multiple-trip permits and 23,000 lb axles on bulk agricultural permits.
- Bulk agricultural permits: the guidelines prohibit Interstate travel outright; the route-specific permit option they mention covers secondary routes only.
The rule in full2 official sources
Width 8′6″: Legal width
Up to 8′6″ wide (102 inches, not counting approved safety devices) moves without a permit; wider needs one.
Width 12′: Banners and corner flags
12′ wide or wider: signs or banners on the front and rear, and 18″ square flags on the four outer corners of the load.
Width 12′: Front pilot car on two-lanes
Over 12′ to 14′ wide: 1 front pilot car on two-lane highways. SCDOT can also require a rear escort for safety.
Width 14′: Front + rear pilot cars
Over 14′ to 16′ wide: 1 front and 1 rear pilot car on all roads.
Width 16′: Permit max width
Nondivisible loads and mobile homes can be permitted up to 16′ wide. Anything beyond the permit maximums goes to SCDOT as an exception request.
Width 16′: Police + pilot cars
Over 16′ wide: 1 front and 1 rear pilot car plus 1 front and 1 rear police escort on all roads, unless SCDOT's Permit Director approves otherwise in writing.
Height 13′6″: Legal height
Up to 13′6″ high moves without a permit; taller needs one. Car haulers and saddle-mount truck haulers may run 14′ under their own rules.
Height 16′: Height pole
16′ high or more: 1 front pilot car with a height pole for the whole move, on all roads.
Height 16′: Route survey
16′ high or more: a route survey approved by SCDOT is needed before the permit is issued.
Length 40′ single unit: Legal single-unit length
A single truck may be up to 40′ long, bumpers and load included.
Length 53′ trailer: Legal trailer length
A trailer or semitrailer in a combination may be up to 53′ long; auto transporters are excluded from this limit.
Length 110′: Mobile home max length
Mobile homes may be permitted up to 110′ overall, with the home itself 80′ or less.
Length 125′: Permit max length
Nondivisible loads can be permitted up to 125′ overall. Anything beyond the permit maximums goes to SCDOT as an exception request.
Length 125′: Rear pilot car
125′ to 150′ long: 1 rear pilot car on all roads.
Length 150′: Front + rear pilot cars
Over 150′ long: 1 front and 1 rear pilot car on all roads.
Overhang 3′ front: Front overhang limit
The load may stick out no more than 3′ past the front of the vehicle.
Overhang 4′ rear: Red flag on rear overhang
A load 4′ or more past the rear, or more than 4″ past the sides, must have its ends marked with a red flag at least 18″ square.
Overhang 6′ rear: Legal rear overhang
The load may stick out no more than 6′ past the rear of the bed or body without a permit.
Overhang 10′ / 15′ rear: Rear overhang permit max
With a permit, rear overhang may reach 10′ on a 48′ or 53′ trailer, or 15′ on a trailer shorter than 48′.
Overhang 15′ rear: Rear pilot car
Rear overhang over 15′ up to 25′: an 18″ red flag on the end of the load and 1 rear pilot car for the whole move.
Weight 73,280 lb: Legal gross weight (5+ axles)
A combination with five or more axles is limited to 73,280 lb, not counting enforcement tolerances, unless the Interstate bridge-formula table allows more.
Weight 80,000 lb: Legal gross on Interstate
On the Interstate, up to 80,000 lb gross when the axle groups meet the bridge formula table.
Weight 130,000 lb: Superload routing analysis
Over 130,000 lb gross, or any single axle over 20,000 lb: superload routing analysis, which may take 3 to 5 business days.
Weight 180,000 lb: Certificate of insurance
Over 180,000 lb: send a certificate of insurance with the application, or have one on file with the SC permit office.
Weight 300,000 lb: Manufacturer weight papers
Over 300,000 lb: send the manufacturer's weight and dimension papers for the load, plus the empty weight of the truck and trailer.
Weight 500,000 lb: Megaload impact fee
Over 500,000 lb: an extra megaload impact fee is charged on the entire gross weight, on a pounds-per-mile basis.
- 03The permit
Which permit do you need?
- SCDOT picks the state route and sets its conditions.
- Get local, toll, federal, private and facility approvals separately.
Superload routing analysisOver 130,000 lb · 3–5 days
SCDOT runs an extra routing analysis, which may take 3 to 5 business days, when:
- Gross weight is over 130,000 lb
- Any single axle is over 20,000 lb
Superload fees$100 application + analysis
SCDOT's fee schedule lists these superload fees:
- $100 non-refundable superload application fee
- Engineering analysis: $100 over 130,000 lb, $200 over 200,000 lb, $350 over 300,000 lb
- Impact fee for loads over 130,000 lb: $3 per 1,000 lb
Engineer's structural analysisMay apply over 300,000 lb
Over 300,000 lb, SCDOT may require an independent structural analysis by a licensed or registered engineer.
2SCDOT — Guidelines for Movement over South Carolina Highways of Oversize and Overweight (OSOW) Vehicles and Loads (Rev. 3/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Route survey16′ high or more
Loads 16′ high and above need an SCDOT-approved route survey, certified by the applicant, before the permit is issued.
2SCDOT — Guidelines for Movement over South Carolina Highways of Oversize and Overweight (OSOW) Vehicles and Loads (Rev. 3/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Overhead clearance3″ under · 3 working days
The hauler checks every overhead clearance on the route:
- The load must be at least 3″ lower than any overhead structure on the permitted route
- Arrange raising or removing wires, cables and traffic signals at least 3 working days before the move
Permit maximums16′ W · 125′ L · 3′ front OH
SCDOT's permit maximums for nondivisible loads; anything beyond them needs an exception request at least 5 days before the move.
- Width: 16′
- Overall length: 125′
- Front overhang: 3′ on all trailers
Permit gross weights90,000 / 110,000 / 130,000 lb
Maximum permitted gross weight by axle count for combinations:
- Five axles: 90,000 lb
- Six axles: 110,000 lb
- Seven axles: 130,000 lb
Single-trip permit7 days · one trip
A single-trip permit is route-specific and good for one trip within 7 days.
- Tied to the truck and trailer: full VIN and plate of the towing vehicle, plus the trailer plate
Official route and permit tools- SafeHaul permit systemApply for SCDOT OSOW permits online
- SCDOT OSOW permit officeContacts, fee schedule and forms; (803) 737-6769, after-hours emergencies (803) 206-9566
- Size and weight guidelines (Rev. 3/2026)Permit limits, escorts, travel and signs
- 2026 holiday travel restrictionsNo-travel holidays and office closures
- Oversize/Overweight Truck Route MapRoutes for 100,000 lb annual permits; carry with the permit
- Road conditions and load-restricted bridgesSCDOT-maintained roads only; check Include Load Restricted Bridges (the list leaves out federal, county and city bridges)
- Over 16′ wide permit applicationFor loads over 16′ wide (not house moves or classrooms)
- Permit amendment formRoute, escort or time changes need a new permit instead
- House moving permit applicationHousemoving permit application; the county Resident Maintenance Engineer sets allowed days and hours
- House moving license applicationAnnual house mover license
- State Transport Police escort requestBook STP police escorts 48 hours ahead
The rule in full2 official sources
Roads & authorities
SCDOT picks the state route and sets its conditions. Get local, toll, federal, private and facility approvals separately.
When a permit is needed
A nondivisible load over legal size or weight needs an SCDOT permit. A single-trip permit covers one move on its route, within seven days, unless the permit says otherwise.
Larger loads
Multiple-trip permits have published size limits. Loads over 130,000 lb, single axles over 20,000 lb, 16′ high, or superload widths need extra route and engineering review.
Superload routing analysis
SCDOT runs an extra routing analysis, which may take 3 to 5 business days, when: Gross weight is over 130,000 lb. Any single axle is over 20,000 lb.
Superload fees
SCDOT's fee schedule lists these superload fees: $100 non-refundable superload application fee. Engineering analysis: $100 over 130,000 lb, $200 over 200,000 lb, $350 over 300,000 lb. Impact fee for loads over 130,000 lb: $3 per 1,000 lb.
- 3SCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permits Checked
Engineer's structural analysis
Over 300,000 lb, SCDOT may require an independent structural analysis by a licensed or registered engineer.
Route survey
Loads 16′ high and above need an SCDOT-approved route survey, certified by the applicant, before the permit is issued.
Overhead clearance
The hauler checks every overhead clearance on the route: The load must be at least 3″ lower than any overhead structure on the permitted route. Arrange raising or removing wires, cables and traffic signals at least 3 working days before the move.
Permit maximums
SCDOT's permit maximums for nondivisible loads; anything beyond them needs an exception request at least 5 days before the move. Width: 16′. Overall length: 125′. Front overhang: 3′ on all trailers.
Permit gross weights
Maximum permitted gross weight by axle count for combinations: Five axles: 90,000 lb. Six axles: 110,000 lb. Seven axles: 130,000 lb.
Single-trip permit
A single-trip permit is route-specific and good for one trip within 7 days. Tied to the truck and trailer: full VIN and plate of the towing vehicle, plus the trailer plate.
- 04Permit cost
What does the permit cost?
Example agency fee$30- 8′7″ W
- 13′ H
- 70′
- 72,000 lb
- 100 miles
The rule in full2 official sources
Example agency fee
$30 for a nondivisible load 8′7″ wide, 13′ high and 70′ long at 72,000 lb gross, on a five-axle truck with a 48′ trailer, for 100 miles in South Carolina. Enter your own load in the calculator below.
What the fee covers
South Carolina's fee depends on the permit product and the loaded vehicle. The calculator itemizes the published charges it can price. Local permits, escorts, tolls, payment charges and ODPermit services are separate.
- 05Pilot cars
When do you need pilot cars?
WidthHeightLength1 front on two-lane roadsNo pilot car on multi-lane undivided roads and divided highwaysMinimums by size alone. Combined dimensions, night moves and the issued permit can add escorts.
Height pole16′ high or more · front
At 16′ high or more, a front pilot car with a height measuring device runs the entire move on all roads.
2SCDOT — Guidelines for Movement over South Carolina Highways of Oversize and Overweight (OSOW) Vehicles and Loads (Rev. 3/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Police escortsOver 16′ wide · front + rear
Over 16′ wide: 1 front and 1 rear police escort plus 1 front and 1 rear pilot car, on all roads.
- SCDOT's Permit Director can grant exceptions in writing
- The escorting officers can require more police escorts
Booking State Transport PoliceRequest 48 hours ahead
To book State Transport Police escorts, sign and email STP's Contractor Request for Escort at least 48 hours before the escort, not counting weekends or holidays.
- $50 per hour per officer, with a 2-hour minimum per officer
Pilot car lights and signsAmber light · 12″ × 7′ sign
Every pilot car needs:
- At least one flashing, strobe or rotating amber light on top, visible 500′ all around
- Headlights on at all times while escorting
- OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD sign or banner at least 12″ × 7′
Pilot car radio and one load eachTwo-way radio · one truck
Pilot cars keep direct two-way radio contact with the truck at all times.
- A pilot car escorts or talks to only one truck at a time
- The hauling truck cannot serve as its own escort
Pilot car spacingRear 3–4 s · front ≤ ½ mile
Keep pilot cars close enough to warn traffic and talk the driver through:
- Rear pilot car: 3–4 seconds behind the load
- Front pilot car: no more than one-half mile ahead
No convoys2 miles apart
Permitted loads may not travel in a convoy. Loads and their escorts must stay at least 2 miles apart.
- The OSOW Permit Director will consider a written exception request for loads traveling under police escort
Rear overhang warningBeacon or rear pilot car
On expandable or pole trailers with more than 6′ of rear overhang, use one of these:
- Flags plus a rotating amber beacon or strobe on the rear of the load
- Flags plus a rear pilot car
The rule in full2 official sources
Height pole
At 16′ high or more, a front pilot car with a height measuring device runs the entire move on all roads.
Police escorts
Over 16′ wide: 1 front and 1 rear police escort plus 1 front and 1 rear pilot car, on all roads. SCDOT's Permit Director can grant exceptions in writing. The escorting officers can require more police escorts.
Booking State Transport Police
To book State Transport Police escorts, sign and email STP's Contractor Request for Escort at least 48 hours before the escort, not counting weekends or holidays. $50 per hour per officer, with a 2-hour minimum per officer.
Pilot car lights and signs
Every pilot car needs: At least one flashing, strobe or rotating amber light on top, visible 500′ all around. Headlights on at all times while escorting. OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD sign or banner at least 12″ × 7′.
Pilot car radio and one load each
Pilot cars keep direct two-way radio contact with the truck at all times. A pilot car escorts or talks to only one truck at a time. The hauling truck cannot serve as its own escort.
Pilot car spacing
Keep pilot cars close enough to warn traffic and talk the driver through: Rear pilot car: 3–4 seconds behind the load. Front pilot car: no more than one-half mile ahead.
No convoys
Permitted loads may not travel in a convoy. Loads and their escorts must stay at least 2 miles apart. The OSOW Permit Director will consider a written exception request for loads traveling under police escort.
Rear overhang warning
On expandable or pole trailers with more than 6′ of rear overhang, use one of these: Flags plus a rotating amber beacon or strobe on the rear of the load. Flags plus a rear pilot car.
Over 12′ wide
Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: no pilot car from these dimensional triggers. Divided highways: no pilot car from these dimensional triggers.
Over 14′ wide
All road types: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars.
Over 16′ wide
Above 16 ft wide, arrange front and rear police escorts in addition to front and rear civilian pilot cars. An exception requires written approval from SCDOT’s Permit Director. All road types: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars.
16′ high or more
At 16 ft high or above, provide a route survey certified by the applicant before permit issuance. All road types: 1 front (height pole required) pilot car.
125′ long or more
All road types: 1 rear pilot car.
Over 150′ long
All road types: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars.
- 06Travel hours
When can you move?
Up to 12′ wide: sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.- Over 12′ to 15′: the same, but not in urban rush hours; over 15′: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. on school days, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. other days.
- No travel on six major holidays.
No permitted oversize or overweight travel on the day of these holidays.
- Jan1New Year's Day
- May25Memorial Day
- Jul4Independence Day
- Sep7Labor Day
- Nov26Thanksgiving Day
- Dec25Christmas Day
The rule in full3 official sources
Sunrise to sunset; narrower windows above 15′
Loads up to 12′ wide may travel sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. Over 12′ to 15′ wide: the same, except near large urban areas 7–9 a.m. on weekdays and 3–6 p.m. on school days (4:30–6 p.m. other weekdays). Over 15′ wide: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. on school days and 9 a.m.–4 p.m. other days. Loads up to 130,000 lb with legal dimensions can request 24/7 travel. No travel on six major holidays, and Myrtle Beach routes close to oversize loads on summer weekends.
Permit and bulletin
Hours depend on width, urban and school-day windows, and whether your permit type allows 24/7 travel. The permit and current bulletin control.
Current route restrictions
Before leaving, check holidays, Myrtle Beach summer routes, urban windows, weather and visibility, lane and bridge limits, convoy spacing and posted weather restrictions.
- 2SCDOT — Guidelines for Movement over South Carolina Highways of Oversize and Overweight (OSOW) Vehicles and Loads (Rev. 3/2026) Checked
- 1South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 56, Chapter 5 (Uniform Act Regulating Traffic on Highways) Checked
- 5SCDOT — 2026 South Carolina Permit Office Closures & Travel Restrictions Checked
Hours over 15′ wide
Loads over 15′ wide, and mobile homes over 14′ box width up to 16′, move only 9 a.m.–3 p.m. on school days and 9 a.m.–4 p.m. on other days, Monday through Sunday.
Urban rush hours
Loads over 12′ up to 15′ wide, and mobile homes over 12′ up to 14′ box width, may not run close to large urban areas: 7–9 a.m. on all weekdays. 3–6 p.m. on school days. 4:30–6 p.m. on non-school days.
24/7 travel on request
Loads up to 130,000 lb gross can get continuous travel on request, if every other dimension is legal, unless the SCDOT Permit Director approves otherwise before the move.
Myrtle Beach summer weekends
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, no Saturday or Sunday movement east of I-95 on Myrtle Beach area routes: Routes including, but not limited to, US-378, SC-327, US-76, SC-576, US-501, SC-22, SC-31 and SC-9. US-17 from the North Carolina line to south of Myrtle Beach (Georgetown).
Bad weather
No movement in heavy rain or fog with visibility under 500′, in high winds, or when roads are slippery from ice, snow or sleet.
Four-lane roads and bridges
Loads and mobile homes over 14′ up to 16′ wide: Travel on four-lane highways. Be the only vehicle on any bridge 18′ wide or less. Where possible, two-lane travel is kept to lanes 12′ wide or wider.
2026 holiday travel ban
No permitted oversize or overweight travel on the day of these holidays. New Year's Day (Jan 1, 2026), Memorial Day (May 25, 2026), Independence Day (Jul 4, 2026), Labor Day (Sep 7, 2026), Thanksgiving Day (Nov 26, 2026), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2026).
2027 fixed-date holidays
The guidelines ban travel on New Year's Day, the Fourth of July and Christmas Day every year, and the Permit Director can also restrict travel from noon the day before to noon the day after, depending on route and load size. SCDOT's OSOW page links only the 2026 bulletin, so 2027 Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving are not listed. New Year's Day (Jan 1, 2027), Fourth of July (Jul 4, 2027), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2027).
- 07Flags & lamps
Signs, flags and lights
OVERSIZE LOAD banners12″ × 7′ · 12′ wide or more
Loads 12′ wide or more display OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD signs or banners:
- At least 12″ high × 7′ wide
- Black letters 10″ high on a yellow background
Flags on the load18″ square flags
Mark the load with red or orange flags at least 18″ square:
- 12′ wide or more: an 18″ fluorescent red or orange flag on each of the four outer corners
- Any load more than 4″ past the sides or 4′ or more past the rear: red flags on the extremities
Amber lights on the loadOver 12′ wide · 500′ visible
Wide loads carry flashing or strobe amber lights visible 500′ all around:
- Over 12′ to 14′ wide: one on the rear of the load
- Over 14′ to 16′ wide: one on each outer rear corner
The rule in full2 official sources
Signs, flags and lights
Use OVERSIZE or WIDE LOAD signs 12 inches by 7 feet, 18-inch flags and the required amber lights. Escorts need radios and headlights. Follow the permit's securement, registration, insurance and weather rules.
OVERSIZE LOAD banners
Loads 12′ wide or more display OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD signs or banners: At least 12″ high × 7′ wide. Black letters 10″ high on a yellow background.
Flags on the load
Mark the load with red or orange flags at least 18″ square: 12′ wide or more: an 18″ fluorescent red or orange flag on each of the four outer corners. Any load more than 4″ past the sides or 4′ or more past the rear: red flags on the extremities.
Amber lights on the load
Wide loads carry flashing or strobe amber lights visible 500′ all around: Over 12′ to 14′ wide: one on the rear of the load. Over 14′ to 16′ wide: one on each outer rear corner.
- 08Driver paperwork
What the driver carries
- Carry the permitSign the permit when you get it.
- Paperwork must matchThe driver's papers must match the signed permit, the truck and trailer IDs, the route map, dates, dimensions, escorts and any survey, insurance or engineering attachments.
- Over 16′ wide applicationLoads over 16′ wide (not house moves or classrooms) use SCDOT's Over 16′ Wide Application.
- Sign and carry the permitThe permit is valid only after the permittee signs it, and it rides in the towing vehicle for the whole move.
- InsuranceSCDOT requires at least $1 million automobile and $1 million general liability coverage.
- Registered to full weightNo overweight permit is issued for a vehicle that is not licensed and registered to its full limit.
- City rules still applyAn SCDOT permit does not exempt you from a city's ordinances, rules and regulations, and overwidth loads and mobile homes use the highways SCDOT selects.
Over 16′ wide application2 days before issue
Loads over 16′ wide (not house moves or classrooms) use SCDOT's Over 16′ Wide Application. SCDOT needs two days to contact each county engineer on the route before it can issue the permit.
- Send a letter of divisibility, insurance, and a route survey if 16′ high or more
- Give the name and contact number of the police escorting the load
- SCDOT can give police contacts but does not set up escorts
Sign and carry the permitSigned · in the cab
The permit is valid only after the permittee signs it, and it rides in the towing vehicle for the whole move.
- A route, escort or travel-time change needs a new permit, not an amendment
Insurance$1M auto + $1M liability
SCDOT requires at least $1 million automobile and $1 million general liability coverage.
- Send proof with the application when gross weight is 180,000 lb or more, or overall width is 16′ or more
Registered to full weightPlate to full limit
No overweight permit is issued for a vehicle that is not licensed and registered to its full limit.
2SCDOT — Guidelines for Movement over South Carolina Highways of Oversize and Overweight (OSOW) Vehicles and Loads (Rev. 3/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026City rules still applyMunicipal rules apply
An SCDOT permit does not exempt you from a city's ordinances, rules and regulations, and overwidth loads and mobile homes use the highways SCDOT selects.
7South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 57, Chapter 3 · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full3 official sources
Carry the permit
Sign the permit when you get it. Carry it, and the route map, in the truck, and show them on request.
Paperwork must match
The driver's papers must match the signed permit, the truck and trailer IDs, the route map, dates, dimensions, escorts and any survey, insurance or engineering attachments.
Over 16′ wide application
Loads over 16′ wide (not house moves or classrooms) use SCDOT's Over 16′ Wide Application. SCDOT needs two days to contact each county engineer on the route before it can issue the permit. Send a letter of divisibility, insurance, and a route survey if 16′ high or more. Give the name and contact number of the police escorting the load. SCDOT can give police contacts but does not set up escorts.
Sign and carry the permit
The permit is valid only after the permittee signs it, and it rides in the towing vehicle for the whole move. A route, escort or travel-time change needs a new permit, not an amendment.
Insurance
SCDOT requires at least $1 million automobile and $1 million general liability coverage. Send proof with the application when gross weight is 180,000 lb or more, or overall width is 16′ or more.
Registered to full weight
No overweight permit is issued for a vehicle that is not licensed and registered to its full limit.
City rules still apply
An SCDOT permit does not exempt you from a city's ordinances, rules and regulations, and overwidth loads and mobile homes use the highways SCDOT selects.
- 09Special permits
Special loads and permit programs
- Only international shipping containers moving to or from a seaport
- With an international bill of lading or carrier interchange
Annual multiple-trip permit14′ W · 13′6″ H · 100,000 lb
A multiple-trip permit can be auto-issued 24/7 and is good for one year from issue. Default limits for nondivisible loads:
- Up to 14′ wide and 13′6″ high
- Up to 100,000 lb gross on 5 or more axles
Multiple-trip permit routes by weight90,000 US/SC/Interstate · 100,000 map
Where an overweight multiple-trip permit can run depends on its gross weight:
- Up to 90,000 lb (40,000 lb max on a tandem, 5 or more axles): all US, SC and Interstate routes
- Up to 100,000 lb (48,000 lb max on a tandem): only routes on the Oversize Truck Route Map
Route-specific annual permitUp to 15′ H · 130,000 lb
A route-specific multiple-trip permit can cover:
- Nondivisible loads: up to 15′ high and/or 130,000 lb gross
- Mobile homes: up to 15′ high, legal weight
- Containers and open-top containers: up to 15′ high and/or 100,000 lb gross
Mobile homes80′ home · 110′ overall
Mobile homes have their own limits:
- Up to 16′ wide
- Home up to 80′ long (ball cup to rear), 110′ overall
- Speed: new homes on Interstates 10 mph under the limit, max 55 mph; other homes max 45 mph
House and building movesOver 16′ W · 4 escorts
Buildings and similar loads over 16′ wide:
- At least 4 escorts, 2 in front and 2 behind, including 1 front and 1 rear police escort
- Max 30 miles
- 9 a.m.–3 p.m., Monday through Friday
Farm and road machineryFarm implements up to 16′
Fire apparatus, road machinery, farm implements, timber equipment and other equipment exempted under state law have their own limits:
- Farm implements: up to 16′ wide
- Other exempt equipment: up to 12′ wide
- Clear weather and daylight only
Bulk agricultural permit90,000 lb · 23,000 lb axles
The bulk agricultural permit allows continuous 24/7 travel within these limits:
- Up to 90,000 lb gross, 23,000 lb per axle
- Size: 8′6″ wide, 13′6″ high
- Trailer at least 40′ long with 5 or more axles
- US and SC routes only
Containerized cargoInternational containers to/from port
Containerized cargo permits cover only international shipping containers moving to or from a seaport, with an international bill of lading or carrier interchange.
- A 20′ container on a 20′ chassis: tandem max 40,000 lb
The rule in full1 official source
Special permits
Containerized cargo, mobile homes, bulk farm products, cotton, sheet tobacco, culvert pipe, house moves, cranes and superloads each have their own eligibility and route conditions. None is a blanket exemption.
Annual multiple-trip permit
A multiple-trip permit can be auto-issued 24/7 and is good for one year from issue. Default limits for nondivisible loads: Up to 14′ wide and 13′6″ high. Up to 100,000 lb gross on 5 or more axles.
Multiple-trip permit routes by weight
Where an overweight multiple-trip permit can run depends on its gross weight: Up to 90,000 lb (40,000 lb max on a tandem, 5 or more axles): all US, SC and Interstate routes. Up to 100,000 lb (48,000 lb max on a tandem): only routes on the Oversize Truck Route Map.
Route-specific annual permit
A route-specific multiple-trip permit can cover: Nondivisible loads: up to 15′ high and/or 130,000 lb gross. Mobile homes: up to 15′ high, legal weight. Containers and open-top containers: up to 15′ high and/or 100,000 lb gross.
Mobile homes
Mobile homes have their own limits: Up to 16′ wide. Home up to 80′ long (ball cup to rear), 110′ overall. Speed: new homes on Interstates 10 mph under the limit, max 55 mph; other homes max 45 mph.
House and building moves
Buildings and similar loads over 16′ wide: At least 4 escorts, 2 in front and 2 behind, including 1 front and 1 rear police escort. Max 30 miles. 9 a.m.–3 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Farm and road machinery
Fire apparatus, road machinery, farm implements, timber equipment and other equipment exempted under state law have their own limits: Farm implements: up to 16′ wide. Other exempt equipment: up to 12′ wide. Clear weather and daylight only.
Bulk agricultural permit
The bulk agricultural permit allows continuous 24/7 travel within these limits: Up to 90,000 lb gross, 23,000 lb per axle. Size: 8′6″ wide, 13′6″ high. Trailer at least 40′ long with 5 or more axles. US and SC routes only.
Containerized cargo
Containerized cargo permits cover only international shipping containers moving to or from a seaport, with an international bill of lading or carrier interchange. A 20′ container on a 20′ chassis: tandem max 40,000 lb.
Price your South Carolina loadAgency fees and pilot-car needs for your loaded rig. Free, no contact details.Open worksheet
SC / Permit worksheet
Price your South Carolina movement.
Enter the complete loaded vehicle. Get estimated agency fees and escort requirements before sharing your contact details.
The numbers behind your next move.
Your result will show the agency fee breakdown, potential pilot-car requirements, and the rules used to calculate them.
- 01 State agency fee subtotal
- 02 Escort & survey considerations
- 03 Sources & pricing assumptions
Single-state pricing uses the mileage you enter. For a proposed route and intermediate states, use the route calculator.
About the example equipment
The samples use ODPermit’s editable 48 ft flatbed · 5 axles planning profile. Loaded dimensions, gross weight, 100 state miles and South Carolina registration are example inputs, not a capacity rating or a route approval. Replace them with your actual setup.
Great Dane Freedom flatbed brochure — Drop-deck option: 20–26 in drop from the upper deck with a 40–34 in rear deck height, which gives the 60 in upper-deck planning height. Platform length, combined tare and tractor geometry are editable ODPermit assumptions.
Disclaimer
General information only. It is not legal advice and not a permit. ODPermit is operated by Frontline Express LLC, a private company, not a government agency.
We summarize official sources as of the dates shown, but rules change often and a summary can be incomplete or out of date. Only a permit issued by the state or local agency authorizes an oversize or overweight move, and that permit and the agency’s current rules control. Confirm limits, escorts, routes and travel times with the issuing agency before you move a load.
This information is provided “as is,” without warranties of any kind. To the extent the law allows, Frontline Express LLC is not liable for losses, fines or delays that result from relying on it.
Terms of service apply.
BEFORE THE TRUCK ROLLS
Turn the estimate
into a permitted move.
Confirm the loaded measurements, carrier details, travel dates and exact pickup and delivery. We can help coordinate permits, escorts and route surveys around those facts.
THE SOURCE RECORD
Official references.
Read the rule behind each requirement. These are dated references; current restrictions and the issued permit control your move.
- 01South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 56, Chapter 5 (Uniform Act Regulating Traffic on Highways)
§ 56-5-4030 (width); § 56-5-4060 (height); § 56-5-4070 (length); § 56-5-4080 (load projection); § 56-5-4140 (gross and axle weight)
Source record: - 02SCDOT — Guidelines for Movement over South Carolina Highways of Oversize and Overweight (OSOW) Vehicles and Loads (Rev. 3/2026)
Sections A, B, D, E (Permit Types), H, J, K (Fees), L (Maximum sizes and weights), M (General), N (Travel), O, P (Signs, flags, lights), Q (Escorts), R (Frame buildings)
Source record: - 03SCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permits
OSOW Contact Information; OSOW Fee Schedule; Related Links; Related Documents
Source record: - 04SC Department of Public Safety, State Transport Police — Contractor Request for Escort
Terms for Escort Service; Cancellations/Delays
Source record: - 05SCDOT — 2026 South Carolina Permit Office Closures & Travel Restrictions
Travel is prohibited on the day of the following holidays
Source record: - 06SCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permit Application Over 16 feet Wide (Not house move or classroom)
Form header and required documents list (Revised 8/22)
Source record: - 07South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 57, Chapter 3
§ 57-3-130 (special permits; general provisions)
Source record: - 0823 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths
Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)
Source record:
All 9 references
- 0923 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights
23 CFR 658.17(a)–(e); grandfather exceptions are configuration-specific
Source record: