The Michigan Department of Transportation began enforcing spring weight restrictions at 6 p.m. Tuesday, February 17. As of Wednesday, February 18, the restrictions are fully in effect across designated state highways in the southern portion of the Lower Peninsula.

Where Restrictions Apply

Weight limits are active on state trunkline highways beginning at the Indiana and Ohio state lines and extending north to and including:

• US 10 in Ludington in Mason County from the M 116 intersection
• East to US 127 in Clare County
• North on US 127 to M 61
• East on M 61 to US 23 in Standish, Arenac County

All Michigan state trunklines are included in the restricted area. These routes carry M, I, or US designations.

Drivers running loads through these corridors today should verify whether they are traveling on all-season or seasonal designated routes before proceeding.

Why Seasonal Limits Are Enforced

Each spring, Michigan reduces allowable axle weights to protect pavement during the thaw cycle.

When roads that have been frozen all winter begin to thaw from the surface downward, melting snow and ice saturate the softened ground. During the spring thaw, the roadbed softened by trapped moisture beneath the pavement makes it more susceptible to damage. This contributes to pothole problems already occurring due to this winter’s numerous freeze-thaw cycles.

Because subsurface layers weaken during this period, heavy axle loads can accelerate pavement failure even when road surfaces appear stable.

All-Season Versus Seasonal Routes

On routes marked as all season on the MDOT Truck Operators Map, shown in green and gold, there is no reduction in legal axle weights. Standard legal limits remain in place.

On routes designated as seasonal, shown in solid or dashed red, the following reductions apply:

• 25 percent reduction for rigid concrete pavements
• 35 percent reduction for flexible asphalt pavements

Some vehicles on restricted routes must also observe a maximum speed of 35 mph, and drivers are required by state law to comply with posted speed limits on weight-restricted highways.

Permit Restrictions Now in Effect

Extended permits remain valid for oversize loads in the weight-restricted area on restricted routes. However, single-trip permits will not be issued for:

• Overweight loads
• Loads exceeding 14 feet in width
• Loads exceeding 11 axles
• Loads exceeding 150 feet in overall length

Carriers hauling heavy commodities or specialized freight should review routing and load plans accordingly.

How Long Will Restrictions Last

MDOT determines the start and end of seasonal weight limits by measuring frost depth, evaluating roadway conditions, and monitoring weather patterns. Restrictions remain in place until the frost line recedes and trapped moisture is able to escape from beneath the pavement structure.

Where Drivers Can Get Updates

For current restriction information, drivers may call 800 787 8960 or visit Michigan.gov/Truckers under Restrictions. Email alerts are also available. Trucking companies located in New Jersey and Canada may call 517 373 6256 for information.

Drivers operating in Michigan this week should double-check axle weights, confirm route classifications, and allow extra planning time to avoid enforcement issues during the spring thaw period.

Source: Truckers News

The post Michigan Spring Weight Restrictions Now Enforced Across Southern Lower Peninsula appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This move marks a significant update for carriers operating in the region, especially as weather conditions begin to stabilize. These seasonal weight limits are typically in place to protect vulnerable roads during the spring thaw.

What Truckers Need to Know

While the lower peninsula is now restriction-free, MDOT confirmed that weight limits remain in effect for roads north of the Mackinac Bridge. These frost-based restrictions will continue on all trunkline highways in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula until further notice.

Here’s what applies in the restricted zones:

• “All-season” routes, marked in green and gold on the MDOT Truck Operators Map, are not subject to axle weight reductions.
• Oversize loads with extended permits are still allowed on restricted routes. However, single-trip permits for overweight loads or those exceeding 14 feet wide, 11 axles, or 150 feet long will not be granted.
• On “seasonal” routes, shown in red (solid or dashed), posted weight reductions of 25% for rigid (concrete) pavements and 35% for flexible (asphalt) pavements remain in place. Certain vehicles will also be limited to 35 mph in these areas.
• Truckers are reminded to follow speed limits on restricted roads, as required by Michigan law.

“Go online for speed restrictions for trucks and the rules for propane fuel delivery and public utility vehicles.”

Stay Updated

Truck drivers can stay informed by visiting the MDOT website at Michigan.gov/Truckers, where restriction maps and updates are regularly posted. The MDOT Truck Operators Map, which outlines all-season and seasonal routes, is available online. Drivers can also sign up for email alerts to receive real-time updates.

For the latest road restriction info:

• Call 800-787-8960
• New Jersey and Canadian carriers may reach out to 517-373-6256

As spring rolls forward, ensure your route planning accounts for changing road conditions—especially if you’re running north of the bridge.

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Pioneer

The post Michigan Lifts Spring Weight Limits Across Lower Peninsula Highways appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.