Do Rental Trucks Need To Stop At Weigh Stations?

Do Rental Trucks Need To Stop At Weigh Stations?

If you have decided to rent a truck and move your belongings yourself, one question you might be wondering is, do you need to stop at weigh stations? Let's find out!

What Is A Weigh Station?

A weigh station is a checkpoint in which trucks and commercial vehicles are subject to being weighed and inspected by a representative from the Department of Transport (DOT), or a representative from the highway patrol. Checkpoints are located along the highway, and are there for the purpose of safety, to ensure overweight or unsafe vehicles do not damage the roads. Originally, weigh stations where to collect taxes, however, they are now used for the main purpose of checking a trucks weight and making sure state laws are being complied with.

When Do You Need To Stop?

If you will be renting or borrowing a truck to move your household items, it is unlikely that you will need to stop at a weigh station, as yours will not be considered a commercial move. However, each state has their own rules, which can change regularly, so it is advised that prior to your journey beginning, you spend some time checking weigh station regulations for the states you’ll be passing through on your planned route. In some states, if your weight might exceed 10,000 lbs, you could be required to stop at a weigh station, even if you are not a commercial move.

If you are unsure whether or not to stop at a weigh station, it is best to pull over and stop. Most times, the officer on duty will wave you through if you are not required to stop. As there is no one rule for when to stop at weigh stations, you could be asked to stop and have your vehicle inspected.

Which States Require Rental Trucks To Stop At Weigh Stations?

Most states require commercial vehicles to stop at weigh stations. However, for rental trucks transporting household items, not all states require rental trucks to stop at weigh stations. For current up to date regulations per state, check out AAA or call the Department of Transportation for each individual state you will be entering or passing through.

When renting your truck, ask the rental company for any information or guidelines regarding weigh stations.

Tips When Stopping At A Weigh Station

If you are required or have been instructed by a state official to stop at a weigh station, follow a few simple tips for an efficient experience.

• Slow down to the required speed limit, which will be posted. Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the other vehicles waiting to be weighed/inspected.
• Remain alert and watch for signs or signals letting you know which lane to be in.
• Follow any instruction given by the DOT officer, highway patrol representative or weigh station employee.
• If you’re stopped for inspection, to be weighed or for questioning, inform the officer on duty that you are moving household belongings.

Now that you have an understanding of weigh station requirements and have done some preliminary research, should you be required to stop, you’ll know what to do and how to have a smooth experience.