Which States Have Oversize Freight Restrictions on Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2024?

In 2024, Indigenous Peoples’ Day (previously known as Columbus Day) is Monday, October 14. This coincides with the date of Thanksgiving Day in Canada.

In many states, Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a government holiday, which means permit offices may be closed or have additional restrictions for oversize (OS) or overweight (OW) freight permitting or movements.

After nearly 70 years in the trucking industry, Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) has dealt with holiday closures and travel restrictions across 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. Remember, oversize/overweight (OSOW) permits must be obtained from each state your freight will move through during its journey. 

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

States often implement OSOW travel restrictions on holidays due to increased traffic on the roads and decreased staff in permitting offices. 

OSOW freight — loads that exceed legal load limits in one or more dimensions (length, width, height or weight) — requires a permit in each jurisdiction it passes through. Permits must be obtained before traveling through each state to avoid additional fines and delays. 

OD freight also requires special route considerations. For example, an over-height load may need a route that avoids certain bridges. OD freight above a certain size is considered heavy haul, which means additional restrictions. 

Ultimately, oversize freight travel restrictions exist to protect the motoring public, but they also protect the infrastructure of the places OD freight travels through. These restrictions ensure everyone on the road can travel safely — whether they’re transporting an OSOW load or not.

The following states will have closed permitting offices and/or travel restrictions on Oct. 14, 2024: 

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

Because OSOW freight requires a permit for each jurisdiction it travels through on its route, you’ll need to be aware of the OSOW permitting provisions of each state your load moves through, in addition to any relevant travel restrictions. 

Each state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) website is always the best source of up-to-date information regarding permitting requirements, office closures, and holiday schedules. 

To make the search a bit easier for you, we’ve compiled a list with links to each state’s OSOW resources. Find the ones you need for your next load below! 

Obtaining an Oversize Freight Permit

For regular oversize loads, the oversize freight permitting process can usually be completed within a few hours on DOT websites. Holiday hours may impact turnaround time.

If you are new to shipping OD freight, it’s vital to lean on the experience of your transportation broker or carrier. They’ll be able to advise you on what permits your freight will need — and how much those permits will cost — in addition to providing route planning assistance.

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.