Everything Minnesota Truck Drivers Need to Know About Weigh Stations

Bay and Bay Transportation details the purpose and functions of weigh stations in Minnesota.

Minnesota truck weigh station

Weigh stations are key to maintaining the safety of truck drivers and commuters on Minnesota highways. Originally, they were created to collect road taxes, but now their main purpose is to enforce safety and tax regulations. Bay & Bay Transportation drivers are very familiar with the weigh stations in Minnesota, especially during harvest season when they are especially active. Some purposes of weigh stations include: 

  • To check freight compliance with fuel tax laws.
  • To check weight restrictions.
  • To ensure safety equipment is working properly.
  • To comply with the Hours of Service Regulations.

Most weigh stations are operated by an individual state’s DOT or DMV, and enforced by the state police. Across the board, the federal weight maximum is 80,000 pounds. Some trucks are given overweight permits, but permits are only good for that particular trip. They cannot be transferred once the haul is delivered. An example of this exception would be when you see an “Oversize Load” or “Wide Load” traveling down the road (usually with half a house on the trailer) with accompanying vehicles signaling their presence.

If a truck is found to be operating with an overweight load, they will be forced to stop at the weigh station. They must stay there until either an overweight permit is obtained or a ticket is issued. When a truck is checked, it is also noted how compliant the driver is. This may further influence random checks, or checks on vehicles from the same company.

Often called “chicken coops,” the state regulations of weigh stations can make driving thorough multiple states a challenge. Luckily, drivers have the support of the Bay & Bay Transportation office staff and logistics team to help them plan accordingly.

In Minnesota, there are approximately 15 weigh stations, with 30% of them hovering around the Twin Cities areas. Others are prominent in the Duluth area, as well as the Winona area.

Specific laws and regulations like these are why we are looking to hire experienced OTR drivers. Weigh stations can seem a little daunting as a new driver, but Bay & Bay provides knowledge and support to each of our drivers so they can travel safely and lawfully.

Please take a look at our Driver Opportunities page to apply online right now!