Flatbed and steel trucking in Ohio: permits and insurance touchpoints
A flatbed load over Ohio's legal limits, such as 80,000 pounds gross, 8 feet 6 inches wide or 13 feet 6 inches high, needs a Special Hauling Permit from ODOT. Before ODOT issues one, your insurer files Form OS-32 for at least $500,000 of liability, or a $500,000 surety bond is filed. Coils follow the federal securement rules.
- When you need a permit
- The OS-32 filing
- Securement and federal rules
- FAQ
Steel, machinery and building loads in Ohio can run near the legal limits. Here are the Ohio touchpoints, with the official source for each.
When you need a permit
- Loads over 80,000 pounds gross, 8 feet 6 inches wide or 13 feet 6 inches high need a Special Hauling Permit (ODOT Form OS-8, ORC 4513.34).
The OS-32 filing
- Your insurer files Form OS-32 for at least $500,000 of liability, or a $500,000 surety bond is filed, before ODOT issues the permit (ODOT Form OS-32). Details: Ohio oversize permits and the OS-32.
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 Ohio, see the dry van state note.
FAQ
Does Ohio require insurance for an oversize permit?
Yes. An OS-32 endorsement for at least $500,000 of liability, or a $500,000 surety bond, must be filed before ODOT issues a Special Hauling Permit.
What are Ohio's legal limits?
On the interstate system, 80,000 pounds gross, 8 feet 6 inches wide and 13 feet 6 inches high, per ODOT Form OS-8.
Do Ohio coil loads have special rules?
Coils follow the federal metal coil rules in 49 CFR 393.120.
This guide is general information, not advice on any policy.
Sources
- ODOT Form OS-8: Legal dimension and weight limits (PDF) (accessed Oct 29, 2026)
- ODOT Form OS-32: Endorsement to liability insurance policy (PDF) (accessed Oct 29, 2026)
- Ohio Revised Code 4513.34: Special permits (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)