Flatbed and steel trucking in Indiana: permits and insurance touchpoints
A flatbed load over 13 feet 6 inches high, 8 feet 6 inches wide, 53 feet for a tractor-semitrailer, or 80,000 pounds gross needs an oversize or overweight permit, mostly issued by Indiana DOR Motor Carrier Services. INDOT's rule says a certificate of insurance must be on file for single trip special weight and trip authorization permits. Coils follow the federal securement rules.
- When you need a permit
- Certificate of insurance
- Securement and federal rules
- FAQ
Steel, machinery and building loads in Indiana can run near the legal limits. Here are the Indiana touchpoints, with the official source for each.
When you need a permit
- Over 13 feet 6 inches high, 8 feet 6 inches wide, 53 feet for a tractor-semitrailer, or 80,000 pounds gross (Indiana DOR OSOW).
- Keep the M-204 general provisions, and the M-204S if it applies, with the permit.
Certificate of insurance
- A certificate of insurance must be on file showing coverage in effect for any single trip special weight or trip authorization permit (105 IAC 10-2-5).
Securement and federal rules
- Coils follow the federal metal coil rules in every state (49 CFR 393.120). See flatbed cargo securement and steel coils.
- Interstate for-hire carriers keep federal proof of insurance on file with FMCSA (49 CFR 387.303T).
- Plants and mills may ask for certificates. See certificates of insurance for mills and plants.
For general freight in Indiana, see the dry van state note.
FAQ
Does Indiana need a certificate of insurance for an OSOW permit?
For single trip special weight and trip authorization permits, yes. One must be on file showing coverage in effect (105 IAC 10-2-5).
Who issues Indiana OSOW permits?
Most are issued by Indiana DOR Motor Carrier Services under INDOT rules.
What has to ride with an Indiana permit?
A paper or electronic copy of the M-204, and the M-204S if it applies.
This guide is general information, not advice on any policy.
From the Wire: Indiana troopers revoke 11 oversize permits in one patrol; Indianapolis police tell truckers to route around a 12-foot-4 rail bridge downtown.
Sources
- Indiana DOR MCS: Oversize/Overweight (OSOW) (accessed Oct 29, 2026)
- 105 IAC 10: Oversize and overweight vehicular permits (Indiana Administrative Code, readopted Oct 21, 2025) (accessed Oct 29, 2026)
- 49 CFR 393.120: Securing metal coils (last amended Nov 18, 2024)
- 49 CFR 387.303T: Security for the protection of the public: Minimum limits (last amended Sep 30, 2019)