No truck driver wants to get stuck paying overweight truck fines, but sometimes it can be difficult to determine the weight of the load you’re carrying, especially if the shipper adds a little more than they should.

It’s not uncommon for the fine to settle on the driver, which not only affects the pocketbook but can lead to a mark on your driving record.

Fortunately, there are ways to prepare for this type of situation. In this post, we share our top tips to avoid overweight truck fines!

Invest in Your Own Weighing Device

One of the best ways to deal with overweight surprises is by carrying your own weighing device. By keeping is calibrated, you can weigh the load and get a rough idea of whether it’s too heavy or not. 

Make a judgement call and contact the shipper before your trip if you believe it’s overweight. That way, you can collaborate on a plan with the shipper to have them cover the fine or contact the Department of Transportation to make other arrangements.

Get Informed About State Regulations

Take matters into your own hands and research the regulations regarding overweight loads in your state. There are oversized permits you can apply for, which is helpful if you find that you're being issued one too many fines for your liking.

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Call up your state department and inquire about max weight and other important factors to consider with heavier loads. Applying for an oversized permit takes away the worry of approaching a weigh station when you're on the road, since you are approved to travel- as long as you stick to pre-specified routes that are generally required for oversized permits.

It’s Not Just the Driver’s Responsibility

There are plenty of ways businesses can be proactive to avoid overweight fines, taking pressure off the shoulders of the drivers.

For instance, you can implement special training that teaches drivers how to calculate the weight. This includes having overweight permits on hand in case of an imminent fine. 

It also helps to inspect trucks and equipment regularly, ensuring they are well-maintained for optimal performance. When loading the freight, make sure it is secured properly and loaded in a way that the weight is evenly distributed inside the trailer.

True Carriers Group is a non-asset based group of carriers that has been helping drive America’s supply chain for over 40 years. We offer a full range of logistics services, including Intermodal, Reefer, Van, Flatbed, Brokerage, LTL and Heavy Haul.