A new law will allow haulers to carry heavier weights on livestock and grain.
The law allows livestock haulers to operate commercial motor vehicles loaded with animals up to a weight of 85,500 pounds, statewide. The law also states that commercial motor vehicles loaded with grain or grain co-products during time of harvest, may weigh as much as ten percent more than the maximum weight limitation indicated by a weight-by-axle chart contained within the law.
“Heavier loads could result in more rapid deterioration of Missouri’s supplementary system of roads and bridges at a time when funding for transportation improvements is stretched to the limit,” said Becky Allmeroth, Missouri Department of Transportation state maintenance engineer. “It is vital that livestock and grain haulers are aware of the responsibilities that coincide with the new weight allowances.” Haulers still must observe posted weight limits on bridges – no exceptions.
Several highway, bridge and equipment issues are associated with the legal changes that take effect on August 28, 2015.
First, heavier trucks hauling livestock, grain and grain co-products are limited to use of the state highway system. This includes U.S. routes, numbered state highways and lettered routes but excludes the interstate system. Trucks carrying a reducible load at weights heavier than normal legal weight limits cannot use any portion of an interstate highway.
Second, pre-loading preparation should include checking the intended route to ensure the bridges on the highway are rated to carry heavier loads. If the intended route includes a weight restriction that is less than the planned gross weight of the load, choose another route or load up to or just less than the gross weight restriction. Visit www.modot.org/bridgelimits to find a list of load-posted bridge locations.
Third, MoDOT advises haulers to pay sharp attention to tires and brakes. Tires must be in good condition and rated to carry the heavier load. Heavier loads of shifting material require excellent braking systems.
The additional weight allowance applies to movements within the state, only.