ALDOT issues guidance on truckload weight limits for COVID-19 relief

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis, Alabama Dept. of Transportation officials have increased weight restrictions to 90,000 lbs. for commercial vehicles (5-axle or 6-axle only) directly involved in emergency relief efforts. 

In a letter delivered earlier this evening to transportation and law enforcement leaders, ALDOT stated that in accordance with Gov. Ivey’s Public Health Emergency Proclamation of March 13, 2020, and the Supplemental Proclamation of March 20, 2020, it was modifying weight restrictions to help move freight more quickly and efficiently. 

The letter states that “Vehicles (5-axle or 6-axle only) providing direct assistance in support of relief efforts related to the COVID-19 outbreaks may carry 90,000 lbs. gross weight on state and Interstate routes in Alabama, except as restricted herein.”

ALDOT officials warned that its temporary weight increase “does not provide exceptions to the requirement to comply with any and all posted limits for weight or size.” 

According to ALDOT, direct assistance means transportation of items to meet following immediate needs: 

• Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis, and treatment of COVID-19; 

• Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as medical masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap, and disinfectants; 

• Food and grocery items for emergency restocking of stores; and 

• Equipment and supplies that are necessary to establish and manage temporary housing, quarantine, and isolation facilities related to COVID-19.

Also, direct assistance DOES NOT include routine commercial deliveries or transportation of loads that include a mixture of supplies and equipment for both COVID-19 relief efforts and for regular commercial activity.

A copy of ALDOT’s letter and the Governor’s Proclamation (both available here) must be carried in the vehicle and presented for inspection upon request.

Unless otherwise extended or terminated in writing, this increased weight limit is in effect for the duration of the Governor’s Proclamation of Public Health Emergency.

Direct all questions and clarification requests to ATA Vice President of Safety & Compliance Tim Frazier at tfrazier@alabamatrucking.org.