Samuel Tucker, CPCU, CRMCEO at Carrier Risk Solutions, Inc.

Preventing Overweight Truck Fines

3 Mar 2026 · 2 min

Watch on YouTube

2:10

The video provides a concise, instructional guide for truck drivers on how to avoid overweight violations that can result in fines, delays, and equipment damage. It begins by outlining the standard federal weight limits—80,000 lb gross vehicle weight (GVW), 34,000 lb on a tandem axle, and 20,000 lb on a single axle—while noting that state and local restrictions may differ. The speaker stresses the importance of always scaling the truck after loading using a certified scale to verify steer, drive, trailer axle, and GVW weights. If any axle exceeds its limit, the driver should adjust the trailer tandems, fifth‑wheel position, or cargo placement to rebalance the load. Proper weight distribution is explained with practical tips: moving the trailer tandems forward, sliding the fifth wheel forward, and centering heavier freight. Fuel weight is highlighted as a hidden variable, with a full tank adding 800–1,000 lb, prompting strategic fueling when near the limit. The video also recommends using weigh‑station bypass services (e.g., FreePass, DriveWise) to reduce unnecessary stops and advises planning routes that avoid bridges or roads with lower weight limits. By consistently scaling, distributing weight, monitoring fuel, and staying informed on regulations, drivers can prevent overweight citations and maintain efficient, safe operations.

Chapters

Overweight violations can lead to costly fines, delays, and even damage to your truck. Here are some key steps to avoid overweight violations and keep you moving without unnecessary stops. Understanding your truck's legal weight limits is the first step in preventing violations. The general federal weight limits are: 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, 34,000 pounds on a tandem axle, and 20,000 pounds on a single axle. However, some states have different rules, and local roads may have additional restrictions. Check state regulations on your route to avoid surprises. Never assume that your load is legal. Always scale your truck after loading, especially if hauling heavier freight. Use a certified truck scale to check steer axle weight, drive axle weights, trailer axle weights, and your gross vehicle weight. If you're over the limit on any axle, you'll need to adjust your tandems, 5th wheel, or even shift some cargo to balance the weight properly. Proper weight distribution is just as important as staying under the limit. If your load is too far forward, your steer or drive axles may be overweight. If it's too far back, your trailer tandems might be overloaded. Here's how you can make adjustments: slide the trailer tandems forward to shift weight to the drive axles, slide the fifth wheel forward to shift weight to the steer axle, move heavier freight toward the center of the trailer if possible. Remember your fuel weight. Fuel can significantly impact your total weight. A full tank can add 800 to 1,000 pounds to your truck, which might push you over the legal limit. If you're close to max weight after loading, consider fueling up strategically. Consider weigh station bypass services. Weigh station bypass programs like FreePass or DriveWise can help you avoid unnecessary stops. Plan ahead for restricted routes. Certain roads and bridges have lower weight limits than highways. Check for any restricted routes that could force you to backtrack or receive an overweight citation. Scaling your load, distributing weight properly, monitoring fuel levels, and staying informed about state regulations can help prevent overweight issues and keep you moving efficiently. Thanks for watching and stay safe out there!