Complete guide to oversized and heavy cargo transport in Ukraine. Dimension limits, permit categories, application process, vehicle markings, fines and how to find a specialised carrier.
What Is Oversized Cargo in Ukraine
Oversized (out-of-gauge) cargo is any load whose dimensions or weight exceed the standard limits set under Ukrainian Cabinet Resolution No. 1166:
| Parameter | Standard Limit | Oversized Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Width | up to 2.6 m | over 2.6 m |
| Height | up to 4.0 m | over 4.0 m |
| Length (single vehicle) | up to 12.0 m | over 12.0 m |
| Length (road train) | up to 22.0 m | over 22.0 m |
| Gross weight | up to 40 t | over 40 t |
| Axle load | up to 11.5 t | over 11.5 t |
If any single parameter is exceeded, a special permit is required before transport can begin.
Permit Categories
Category I — Minor Excess
Width up to 3.0 m, height up to 4.3 m, length up to 24 m, weight up to 44 t. Simplified permit process, issued within 3–5 business days.
Category II — Moderate Excess
Width up to 3.5 m, height up to 4.5 m, length up to 28 m, weight up to 60 t. Requires route approval from Ukravtodor (state road authority) and National Police.
Category III — Major Excess
Width over 3.5 m, height over 4.5 m, weight over 60 t. Mandatory police escort, engineering route survey, and approval from bridge and overpass owners.
How to Obtain a Permit
Step 1: Prepare Documentation
Permit application form (approved format)
Vehicle and load diagram with all dimensions
Vehicle registration certificate
Planned transport route
Freight contract or cargo documents
Step 2: Apply Online
Since 2024, all permits are processed through Ukraine's e-services portal: e-services.dsbt.gov.ua.
Step 3: Route Approval
For Category II and III: route must be approved by Ukravtodor (road condition assessment), National Police (escort arrangements), and local road authorities.
Permit Costs
| Category | Approximate Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| I | UAH 500–1,500 | 3–5 days |
| II | UAH 2,000–8,000 | 7–10 days |
| III | UAH 10,000–50,000 | 10–20 days |
*Costs vary by route length and specific parameters.*
Vehicle Marking Requirements
All oversized transport in Ukraine must display:
Yellow "Oversized Load" signs on front and rear
Orange flashing beacons on top of the cab
Clearance lights at the outermost points of the load
Escort vehicle (Category II and III): equipped with beacons and warning signs
Fines for Non-Compliance
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Operating without permit (Category I) | UAH 3,400–5,100 |
| Operating without permit (Category II–III) | UAH 8,500–17,000 |
| Exceeding permitted parameters | UAH 5,100–8,500 |
| Repeat violation within 12 months | UAH 17,000–34,000 |
| Infrastructure damage | Full damage compensation + fine |
Vehicles may be detained until the fine is paid and a permit is obtained.
Movement Restrictions
Night movement ban: Category II–III cannot travel 22:00–06:00
City peak hour ban: 07:00–09:00 and 17:00–19:00
Speed limits: 60 km/h on highways, 30 km/h on bridges
Spring weight restrictions: March–April limits apply to heavy vehicles
Finding an Oversized Cargo Carrier
Post a request on CarGoPro with exact dimensions and weight
Specify body type "lowbed platform" or "extendable semi-trailer"
Use the tender system to receive competitive quotes
Verify carriers through CarGoPro's reliability tool — critical for high-value equipment transport
