OW/OS Permits in Texas: What You Need to Know Before Moving Heavy Equipment
Heavy HaulApril 1, 20265 min read

OW/OS Permits in Texas: What You Need to Know Before Moving Heavy Equipment

Why OW/OS Permits Matter

Moving equipment over 80,000 lbs or wider than 8'6" on Texas roads without proper permits can result in fines up to $10,000 per violation, equipment impoundment, and project delays that cost far more than the permit itself.

Types of Permits in Texas

Single Trip Permit — Valid for one move on a specific route. Required for most heavy haul loads. Processing time: 1-3 business days.

Annual Permit — Covers multiple moves within a year for equipment that stays within specific weight/dimension thresholds. Best for companies that move equipment frequently.

Superheavy Load Permit — Required when the gross weight exceeds 254,300 lbs (TxDMV). Requires route survey, bridge analysis, and escort vehicles. Processing: 5-15 business days.

What Force Handles for You

When you book a heavy haul move with Force, permit management is included:

  • •Route planning — We identify the optimal route based on bridge ratings and road restrictions
  • •Permit application — We file with TxDMV and handle all paperwork
  • •Escort coordination — For oversized loads requiring pilot cars
  • •Compliance documentation — All permits travel with the load

Key Dimensions That Trigger Permits

DimensionLegal LimitPermit Required Above
Width8'6"8'6"
Height14'0"14'0"
Length (trailer)59'0"59'0"
Gross Weight80,000 lbs80,000 lbs

The Cost of Getting It Wrong

A load stopped at a weigh station for the wrong permit means fines, a delay of days, and a machine sitting on a trailer instead of working.

Force files its Texas OS/OW permits in-house and has delivered over 3,000 loads across Texas since 2020. DOT 3496920, MC 1152805, fully insured.

Ready to Move?

Get a fast quote. We handle the permits, routing, and execution — you focus on your project.

Heavy haul transport across Texas

60-ton lowboys, an 85-ton 9-axle RGN and step deck out of our Laredo yard — Texas OS/OW permits filed in-house on our own TxPROS account.

Heavy haul transport across Texas →

Get a fast quote.

Call Now
Email Us