Do pickup trucks pulling large trailers need to stop at truck scales?

Question

My total weight is 25,080Lbs. Is this legal to go through the scales with out being stopped? I have a 2005 Dodge 2500 with a 36 ft. gooseneck trailer. This is a non-commercial truck and I have a standard class C license. We are travaling from Louisville, Ky. to Reno, Nv.

Answer 1

I don't know for sure about the scales but with your total weight and depending on the state your goin' through and what your haulin' on your truck and trailer. some state police and highway patrol cars might take a interest in you if you look overloaded for your truck or trailer plates or over width babe! better make sure all your lights are workin' too ... smokey bear will pull ya over just to let you know you have one out .. and before ya know it they will want to check other stuff too maybe! plus some states may have different requirements or laws with their scales and stuff .. just somethin' to think about is all. hope y'all have a safe trip .. take care!

Answer 2

Pickup Truck Trailers

Answer 3

In most states, only COMMERCIAL vehicles need to pass over the scales. Some states specifically exempt pickup trucks. But... If your combined GVW (truck and trailer) exceeds 26,000 lbs, or your trailer weighs more than 10,000 lbs, then you must be licensed as a commercial vehicle in most states. In Montana, vehicles over 20,000 CGVW must stop at the scales, and in California, all rental trucks must weigh.

While your load may be legal on the route you have planned, I would question the ability of a 3/4 ton pickup to safely negotiate the mountains between Kentucky and Nevada with a 25,000 lb load.

Take I-29 north from Kansas City to connect with I-80 at Lincoln, Nebraska, then it's I-80 all the way to Reno. Keep your speed down in the mountain passes, and make sure your trailer brakes are working properly!!! Carry plenty of water for your radiator and for drinking.

Good Luck!

Answer 4

It totally depends on the state laws of the state you are driving in. For instance in the state of Maryland the sign before the scales says all vehicles over 5000 lbs must enter. That is what it means. Other states say all commercial vehicles must enter. That means all commercial vehicles regardless of weight.

For the most part the answer is no, but read the sign as you approach the weigh station. If a cop thinks you are over weight for you trucks license, they can make you go through and ticket you if you are overweight.

Answer 5

Since you are not a commercial vehicle, most states will let you bypass the weigh stations. Do contact the KY DOT Commercial Vehicle Enforcement to be on the safe side to make sure your gross vehicle weight is permitted with your class of license.

In addition, please pay attention to your traffic signs because in certain areas, like constructions zones, you may have to follow instructions for large trucks, due to your length. Also, watch your gauges closely for signs that you are pushing your pickup too hard & plan accordingly, since you will be encountering some tough grades. Enjoy your trip!!

Answer 6

Better do some research. Different states have different laws. In Ohio at that weight...with a gooseneck trailer...not only would you need to cross the scales but you would also need a driver's log book with you.

Answer 7

You are hauling what some one has paid for or trailer with living quarters? Flat bed with tarps should stop to be inspected travel trailers drive on by. If your hot shot load is being sold in NV. you better get a CDL soon!

Answer 8

No. Only commercial vehicals that require a cdl or "personal" vehicles that have to carry a "not for hire" placard have to stop.

Answer 9

depends on the state and its laws. but if there is a stop required, do it so you do not get hit with a fine.

Answer 10

No you don't. I have made this mistake a couple of times and was told we don't need to stop. It's for truckers.