Portugal

Offer / Portugal

Oversize Transport Permits

Permissible dimensions without the need to obtain a permit

  • Tractor unit + semi‑trailer: 16.50 m × 2.55 m × 4.00 m, max. weight 40 t
  • Truck + trailer: 18.75 m × 2.55 m × 4.00 m, max. weight 40 t

Exceeding any of the above parameters (dimensions, gross mass, or axle loads) already requires obtaining a permit for oversize transport.

Permanent permits

  • Validity: 1 year
  • Maximum dimensions: 25.25 m × 4 m × 4.60 m
  • Maximum mass: 60 t
  • Fleet: up to 15 tractor units and 15 semi‑trailers
  • Trip limit: none – any number of transports may be carried out during the year
  • Transit hours: both day and night

Special permits (larger dimensions)

  • Required if the vehicle’s dimensions exceed standard values
  • Validity: 6 months
  • Fleet: up to 15 tractor units and 15 semi‑trailers
  • The permit specifies whether travel is allowed by day, by night, or both, depending on dimensions and route

Permits for rigid vehicles with trailers (road trains)

  • Until recently, permits were issued only for width 3.50 m
  • Currently issued for width 4 m, valid for 1 year
  • Portugal’s Ministry reserves the right to return in future to the 3.50 m width limit

  • Permanent permits with 4 m width: 5–7 working days
  • Permits with a route requiring road authority opinions: 6–8 weeks
  • Permits with a route not requiring road opinions: 1 week

There is no option to extend an already issued permit. In such a case, a new permit must be applied for.

According to the guidelines specified in the permit.

  • Special permits (for dimensions above 25.25 m × 4 m × 4.60 m or weight of 60 t) may require:
    • A feasibility report or technical opinion concerning the route and road infrastructure (especially for routes that require opinions).
    • Issuance time depends on a road and route analysis, which affects application processing time (6–8 weeks for routes requiring opinions, 1 week for routes that do not).

Cancellation costs depend on the stage of order processing and the timing of the cancellation in relation to the planned start of the escort operation.

The same principle applies to permit cancellations — the later the cancellation is made, the higher the potential costs, resulting from preparatory work already completed, submitted applications, and allocated resources.

Organization of Oversize Transport Operations

Oversize transport is a complex logistics operation that requires precision, experience, and excellent coordination.

???? Professional Route Planning
We analyse every kilometre of the route: bridge load capacity, turning radii, roundabouts, overpasses, detours, as well as both temporary and permanent roadworks. Planning begins well before the vehicle’s first movement.  

???? Transport Escort  
Specialised escort vehicles, equipped in accordance with applicable regulations, ensure a smooth and safe passage, responding dynamically to real-time road conditions.  

???? Documentation and Formalities 
Permits, approvals, and agreements with road authorities and other institutions — we take care of every document required for a safe and legal transport operation.

????️ Detailed Logistics Planning 
We select optimal transit times, plan alternative routes, monitor weather conditions, and consider all external factors that may impact execution.

Result? 

???? Oversize transport is carried out safely, legally, and on time, with full control at every stage — from initial planning to final unloading.  

Escort of Oversize Transport Operations

Parameters determining the need for a civilian pilot vehicle and police escort:

  • Pilot vehicle: required if the transport has a length > 25 m and/or a width > 3 m.
  • Police escort: required if the transport has a width > 4.50 m.
  • The remaining dimensions and requirements are specified individually in the permit.