According to MDOT, the remaining spring weight restrictions on all state trunkline highways ended at 7 a.m. Friday, bringing the state’s 2026 frost law season to a close.

The restrictions applied to state-maintained highways carrying interstate, U.S. highway, and Michigan route designations.

Seasonal Restrictions Help Protect Roads During Spring Thaw

Michigan applies seasonal weight restrictions each year during spring thaw periods when roadbeds become more vulnerable to damage caused by heavier axle loads.

During frost thaw cycles, moisture beneath pavement weakens roadway structures, making certain routes more susceptible to cracking, rutting, and long-term surface damage under commercial traffic.

The restrictions often affect route planning, freight weight distribution, delivery timing, and operating costs throughout late winter and spring operations.

With the state restrictions now removed, normal commercial weight movement can resume on Michigan trunkline highways heading into the summer freight season.

Some Local Limits May Still Remain in Place

Although state restrictions have ended, MDOT noted that county road commissions and local public works departments may still maintain their own seasonal weight limits depending on roadway conditions.

Local restrictions do not always follow the same timeline as state routes, meaning some municipal roads, secondary highways, and rural freight corridors could still carry posted limits in certain areas.

Anyone operating through local delivery zones, construction areas, or smaller municipal routes may still need to monitor posted signage tied to local restrictions.

Updated restriction information remains available through MDOT’s website and seasonal route maps. The state also offers email alert options tied to restriction updates and route condition changes throughout the year.

The end of Michigan’s frost law season is typically viewed across the freight industry as one of the clearer indicators that seasonal operations are shifting fully toward summer freight patterns.

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Last updated: May 18, 2026

Source: Truckers News

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Seasonal weight restrictions are usually enforced during the spring frost thaw to protect roads from damage but are now officially concluded for the year.

While MDOT oversees state trunkline highways, county road commissions and city public works departments manage their own seasonal weight restrictions. These may not always align with MDOT’s restrictions. Drivers are advised to look for posted signs indicating whether specific routes have active weight limits.

To stay informed, truckers can access MDOT’s weight restriction updates by calling 800-787-8960 or visiting www.Michigan.gov/Truckers under the “Restrictions” section. The MDOT Truck Operators Map, which shows all-season routes marked in green and gold, is also available online. Drivers can subscribe to email alerts through the MDOT website for regular updates.

For trucking companies operating out of New Jersey or Canada, further information is available by calling 517-373-6256.

Source: Truckers News

The post Michigan Lifts All Truck Weight Restrictions Starting Friday Morning appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Updates in Michigan

Michigan’s Department of Transportation (MDOT) began enforcing spring weight restrictions on all state trunkline highways starting Monday, March 3. These measures aim to protect roadways as seasonal changes make them more vulnerable to damage.

MDOT provided the following guidelines for restricted areas:

• All-Season Routes: Legal axle weights remain unchanged on these routes.

• Oversize Loads: Extended permits remain valid in restricted areas. However, single-trip permits for loads exceeding 14 feet in width, 11 axles, 150 feet in total length, or for overweight loads will not be issued on restricted routes.

• Seasonal Routes: Weight reductions are set to 25% for rigid pavements and 35% for flexible pavements, with maximum speeds capped at 35 mph for select vehicles.

Additional details, including speed restrictions and rules for propane deliveries and service vehicles, are available on the Michigan Department of Transportation website.

Wisconsin Implements Class II Restrictions

On Thursday, March 6, Wisconsin’s Department of Transportation (WisDOT) enacted Class II weight restrictions for most of its state highways. More highways have started these restrictions Monday, March 10.

WisDOT emphasized that Class II roads are particularly prone to damage during spring, as thawing frost weakens the ground. Local governments within Wisconsin may also impose additional load limits or restrictions on county, town, city, and village roads.

To assist truckers and businesses, an interactive map detailing seasonal weight restrictions throughout the state has been made available online.

Other States’ Updates

Minnesota ended its winter truck load limits as of February 28, signaling the transition to spring requirements. Meanwhile, North Dakota implemented its spring load limits on Friday, March 7.

Source: Land Line

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