1. Know Your Permit Dimensions Before You Roll
Many Washington violations happen because the actual load does not match the dimensions listed on the permit.
Common issues include:
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Overheight without proper permit
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Width or length exceeding permitted limits
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Incorrect or missing axle spacing
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Misreported weight distribution
How to avoid violations:
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Measure the load after securement, not before.
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Re-check the height at the highest point.
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Verify axle spacing with a tape measure, not estimates.
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Confirm your tractor-trailer configuration matches the permit.
2. Follow the Exact Approved WSDOT Route
Route violations are one of Washington's most expensive mistakes.
Washington has:
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Restricted bridges
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Mountain passes with weather rules
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Road construction detours
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Permanent OS/OW restrictions
If a driver deviates—even by one exit—WSP can shut the load down until a corrected route is approved.
How to avoid violations:
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Use WSDOT’s Commercial Vehicle Map and bridge clearances.
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Disable auto-rerouting on GPS (a major problem for OS/OW carriers).
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Review the route with dispatch before departure.
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Stop and re-check routing after weather or closure alerts.
3. Always Comply With Travel Time Restrictions
Washington limits when oversize loads can travel.
Key rules include:
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No movement during hours of darkness for certain OS loads
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Holiday restrictions
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Weekend restrictions for larger loads
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Weather-related closures (especially passes like Snoqualmie)
How to avoid violations:
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Check WSDOT updates before starting the trip.
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Know sunrise/sunset times—dark travel violations are common.
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Don’t rely solely on GPS for time-dependent rules.
4. Ensure Proper Signage, Flags & Lighting
Missing or incorrect OS load equipment is a frequent Washington violation.
Required items include:
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“Oversize Load” signs front and rear
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Red/orange warning flags
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Amber warning lights
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Pilot/escort vehicles when required
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Radio communication between pilot cars & driver
How to avoid violations:
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Keep spare signs and flags in the truck.
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Inspect all lights before departure.
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Ensure pilot cars meet Washington’s strict certification rules.
5. Use Certified Pilot/Escort Operators When Required
Washington has its own pilot car certification program.
Violations include:
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Using uncertified escort operators
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Not using escorts where required
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Improper spacing or positioning of escorts
How to avoid violations:
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Confirm escort certification numbers before dispatch.
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Review WSDOT escort diagrams with the driver and pilot.
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Maintain proper communication throughout the move.
6. Keep Permits Accessible (Digital or Printed)
WSP officers frequently cite drivers for:
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Missing permit copies
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Wrong permit version
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Inaccessible digital permits
How to avoid violations:
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Keep digital permits saved offline.
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Store a backup printed copy in the cab.
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Verify that the permit matches your load exactly.
7. Monitor Weather—Especially in Mountain Pass Areas
Washington’s geography makes weather compliance critical.
Violations often occur when:
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Oversize loads travel during restricted weather
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Loads continue despite poor visibility
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Chain requirements are ignored
How to avoid violations:
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Check WSDOT Mountain Pass Reports before every leg.
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Stop immediately if visibility drops (fog, snow, rain).
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Follow chain laws strictly.
Final Tips for Staying Compliant in Washington
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Train drivers specifically on Washington rules.
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Perform a pre-trip compliance check for every OS/OW move.
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Communicate constantly with dispatch and pilot cars.
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Review permit pages carefully—many violations come from misreading fine print.