Oversize load alerts to a permit-ready pickup: complete 2026 workflow
An oversize load does not move on a handshake. It moves on dimensions, a permit from every state on the route, and often an escort. Instead of finding a wide load and then scrambling for paperwork, set up oversize alerts on OpenDeck, powered by Load Work so loads that fit your trailer find you, then work the permit steps in the right order before the pickup date.
TL;DR
Oversize load alerts on OpenDeck are unlimited on both Pro ($109/month) and Enterprise ($249/month).
Filter by trailer type, weight and length, then confirm width and height with the broker in writing.
Permits are issued state by state, so start them the moment the broker confirms dimensions.
Broker ratings and contact details show on the load before you dial.
Why oversize needs a different workflow
A standard open-deck load is a pickup time and a rate. An oversize load adds legal limits you may be over: width past 8 feet 6 inches, height past the limit in the states you cross, length and weight. Each state sets its own permit rules, so the route decides the paperwork. That is why the order matters: alert, dimensions, permits, then pickup.
Before you start
An active MC or DOT number and cargo insurance in force.
Your trailer's real numbers: deck length, deck height, and legal payload.
A Load Work account through the Open Deck pricing page.
Gotcha: the board filters on trailer type, weight and length. Width and height come from the broker, so ask for them on the first call and get them in writing.
Set up your account and pick your plan
Pick Pro ($109/month, up to 25 trucks and 5 users) or Enterprise ($249/month, unlimited trucks and users) on the pricing page.
Click the plan button and finish signup on Load Work with your MC or DOT number handy.
Verify your email and log in.
Result: a live account with unlimited load alerts, email and SMS alerts, and no per-load fees.
Set alerts for the freight you can haul
Enter your home ZIP and a radius you will actually run empty.
Set trailer type to your equipment, such as RGN, step deck or flatbed, and set weight and length to your real trailer.
Switch email alerts and SMS alerts on.
For the equipment side, see RGN hauling for construction equipment dealers and lowboy hauling for government and municipal fleets.
Result: alerts only for loads your trailer can take.
Confirm dimensions before you commit
Open the load and read the broker's rating and contact details.
Call and ask for length, width, height and weight of the freight as loaded on your trailer.
Ask whether the load is already permitted or whether the permits are yours to buy.
Ask whether the route needs an escort. Pilot car rules differ by state.
Result: you know whether this is an oversize load before you accept it.
Work the permits in order
Map the route state by state. Every state you cross may need its own permit.
Apply as soon as dimensions are confirmed. Processing time varies by state, so check each state's permit office for current turnaround.
Check route limits such as bridges and restricted hours on each permit.
Line up your escort before pickup if any state requires one.
Result: permits and escorts are in hand before you reach the shipper.
Secure and tarp for the road
Oversize freight still has to meet DOT securement rules. Check your chains and binders against the load before you leave; the best chain and binder brands for flatbed securement guide covers the gear.
Second variant: alerts for hotshot oversize
A hotshot rig can run wide loads too. Keep the same home ZIP, change trailer type to gooseneck or hotshot, and reset weight and length. Both setups alert into the same inbox.
Troubleshooting
No oversize alerts after a day: widen the radius before loosening weight or length.
Broker cannot give dimensions: do not book until you have them in writing.
A permit is slow: call the state permit office and move your pickup date, not your route.
Alerts flood your phone: tighten one filter at a time.
The load is gone when you call: turn SMS alerts on.
What changes after your first permit-ready pickup
You learn which states are quick and which slow your pickups, and you build the permit step into your quote. Pro on OpenDeck, powered by Load Work runs $109/month in 2026; check the current Open Deck pricing, then finish signup on Load Work.
FAQ
What counts as an oversize load?
A load past the legal limits for width, height, length or weight. Federal width is 8 feet 6 inches on most trailers, and each state sets its own other limits.
Who buys the oversize permit?
It depends on the load. Ask the broker on the first call whether permits are already handled or yours to buy.
Do I need a permit from every state?
Generally yes. Each state you cross issues its own permit for its roads, so map the route before you apply.
What does OpenDeck cost in 2026?
Pro is $109/month (regularly $149) and Enterprise is $249/month (regularly $349), billed monthly with no per-load fees.
Are oversize load alerts unlimited?
Yes. Load alerts are unlimited on both Pro and Enterprise, by email and SMS.
Does OpenDeck show broker details before I call?
Yes. Broker ratings and contact details show on the load before you dial.
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