The Truck Weight Calculator provides a convenient way to determine the
maximum legal weight that any set of axles on a vehicle/vehicle
combination may carry on MN highways. The allowable weight on a
vehicle/vehicle combination may increase by either adding additional axles
or by increasing the distance between axles. The formula for the
calculator is a weight-to-length ratio. This formula was enacted by
Congress and the State to limit the weight-to-length of a vehicle crossing
a bridge.
The formula is W = 500 [LN/N-1 + 12N + 36]
W = Maximum weight in pounds on any group of two or
more axles.
L = Distance in feet between
extremes of any group of two or more consecutive axles.
N = Number of axles in the group under consideration.
Minnesota Weight Limitations Chart
The legal gross vehicle weight (GVW) on MN highways is 80,000 pounds
unless otherwise posted or restricted. All tire and axle weights must be
legal. No foremost or rearmost steering axle tire can exceed 600 pounds
per inch of tire width, or the manufacturers rated weight, whichever is
less. All other tires cannot exceed 500 pounds per inch of tire width, or
the manufacturers rated weight, whichever is less. No single axle alone or
in a group can exceed 20,000 pounds on a 10-ton route. No single axle
alone or in a group can exceed 18,000 pounds on a 9-ton route. Unless
restricted or posted, all paved roads are considered 10-ton routes. Non
paved routes are considered 9-ton routes. Loads which are divisible may be
allowed over 80,000 pounds with a permit from the road authority where the
transportation occurs.
External and interior measurements and the Minnesota Axle Weight Limit
table shall be used to determine the gross weight of a vehicle or
combination of vehicles. The maximum legal weight of 80,000 pounds is
possible on both 10-ton and 9-ton highways with proper axle spacing and
correct tire size and rating.