The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has once again extended a waiver allowing heavier truckloads on state highways, specifically for the transport of materials crucial to flood relief and levee repair efforts. According to an announcement from MoDOT on May 20th, the extension permits private and for-hire motor carriers to haul up to 10% more than their licensed weight when carrying rock, sand, and gravel until June 30. Information regarding this measure can be found on MoDOT's official website.
Under this waiver, freight must not tip the scales beyond 10% above the commercial motor vehicle’s gross licensed weight. While supporting flood relief, only rock, sand, and gravel transport within Missouri is eligible for the weight increase, as stated on MoDOT's website. Transport on interstate highways remains off-limits, and this allowance is specific to non-interstate routes.
There are several conditions set by MoDOT to ensure safety during the period of the waiver. Among these, carriers are mandated to respect posted bridge weight limits. If a bridge is to be crossed, the vehicle's speed should not exceed 30 mph.
MoDOT also maintains that drivers must stay informed about road conditions and closures, often a fluctuating situation during emergency relief efforts. Live updates and alerts can be sourced through MoDOT's Traveler Information Map, which drivers carrying these loads are encouraged to consult at traveler.modot.org.
