Bridge and Tunnel Height Restrictions for Trucks: A Complete Guide for Safe, Legal Routes

Every year, trucks and moving vans get stuck under low bridges and tunnel entrances simply because drivers misjudge their vehicle’s height or ignore warning signs. The results can be severe: crushed roofs, traffic shutdowns, expensive fines, and dangerous situations for everyone on the road. Knowing and respecting bridge and tunnel height restrictions is essential for any truck driver, moving company, or person renting a moving truck. This guide explains how height restrictions work, how to read signs correctly, and how to plan safe routes that keep you on the right side of the law.

Why Bridge and Tunnel Height Restrictions Matter for Truck Drivers

Bridge and tunnel height restrictions exist for one reason: safety. When a vehicle that’s too tall hits a bridge or tunnel, it can cause structural damage, spill cargo, block traffic, and put lives at risk.

For truck and moving-van drivers, understanding these restrictions is about more than avoiding embarrassment—it’s about protecting your equipment, your cargo, and your wallet.

Key risks of ignoring height restrictions

• Vehicle damage: Roofs torn open, air conditioning units ripped off, and structural frame damage.
• Cargo loss: Damaged furniture, equipment, or freight that can be extremely expensive to replace.
• Injury risk: To you, your passengers, nearby drivers, and pedestrians.
• Legal and financial consequences: Fines, points on your license, and liability for damage to public infrastructure.
• Service disruptions: Road closures, detours, tow services, and delays that can ruin delivery schedules.

Basic Legal Height Limits for Trucks in the U.S.

While bridge and tunnel clearances vary by location, there are standard vehicle height limits that apply to most highways. Knowing your state’s or region’s rules helps you understand what’s considered a “tall” or oversize vehicle.

Typical maximum vehicle heights by region

In the United States, most states set a legal maximum vehicle height between 13 feet 6 inches and 14 feet. However, low-clearance bridges and tunnels may be significantly lower than these legal maximums.

Region/Example	Common Legal Max Height	Notes
Many U.S. States (e.g., NY, NJ, PA)	13’6″ (4.11 m)	Standard for interstate commercial traffic
Some Western States (e.g., CA, CO, WA)	14’0″ (4.27 m)	Allows slightly taller vehicles on designated routes
Older urban areas	Varies widely	Many low-clearance bridges below 12′, some below 10′
Residential streets & parkways	Often under 12′	Frequently restricted for commercial trucks entirely

Always check your local Department of Transportation (DOT) or equivalent authority for the official maximum height in your area, especially if you’re planning long-distance or interstate moves.

How Bridge and Tunnel Clearances Are Measured and Posted

Bridge and tunnel height signs are not random—they’re based on measured clearances used to keep tall vehicles out of danger. However, variations in measurement standards and roadway conditions can lead to confusion.

How clearances are typically measured

• Lowest point: Clearance is usually posted for the lowest structural point across the width of the road.
• Measured from road surface: Height is measured from the road surface to the lowest structure.
• Allowances: Some agencies build in a safety margin (e.g., 2–3 inches lower on the sign than the actual clearance) to account for pavement resurfacing, snow, or sagging structures.

Reading height restriction signs accurately

Signs may appear in a few different formats. Understanding each is crucial:

• Example: “12’-6” – This means 12 feet, 6 inches of clearance.
• Metric: “3.8 m” – Used in many countries and occasionally in dual-unit signs in the U.S.
• Dual signs: “12’-6” / 3.8 m” – Shows both imperial and metric measurements.

When in doubt, assume the number is exact or slightly overstated in danger—not understated. If your truck is even close to the posted limit, find an alternate route.

Knowing Your Truck’s True Height (Including Temporary Loads)

You can’t make smart decisions about bridge and tunnel restrictions if you don’t know the real height of your vehicle. This is especially critical for moving trucks, rental box trucks, and flatbeds with stacked cargo.

How to correctly measure your vehicle height

1. Park on level ground.
2. Measure from the ground to the highest point – This might be:
   • Roof of the box or trailer
   • Rooftop A/C unit
   • Satellite dish, antennas, or lights
   • Top of the cargo if it extends above the body or trailer
3. Use a tape measure long enough (25–30 ft) and have a second person assist.
4. Write the height clearly on a label inside the cab near the dashboard:
   • e.g., “Vehicle Height: 12’2” (3.71 m)”
5. Round up, not down. If you measure 12’ 1.5”, consider your height 12’ 2”.

Special considerations for rental and moving trucks

Many people renting a moving truck for the first time underestimate its size. Common mistakes include:

• Assuming it fits under the same structures as a pickup truck or van.
• Forgetting about rooftop storage pods or strapped-on items.
• Not reading the printed height label (many rental trucks list their height on the cab or inside the driver’s area).

Always confirm the listed height and remember that added cargo on top (or slight changes in suspension under load) can change that number.

Common Low-Clearance Situations Truck Drivers Face

Not all low-clearance hazards are obvious. Some appear where you least expect them, especially in older cities and off-highway locations.

Typical low-clearance danger zones

• Older city bridges: Many were built before modern truck dimensions and can be far below today’s standard height limits.
• Railroad overpasses: Frequently lower than highway bridges and sometimes poorly marked.
• Parkways and scenic routes: Many explicitly ban commercial trucks and have low arch bridges.
• Tunnels with arched ceilings: Height may vary by lane—outer lanes may have lower clearance than the center.
• Parking garages and loading docks: Often below 10 feet and not suitable for box trucks or large vans.
• Drive-thrus and canopies: Bank, restaurant, or hotel canopies can be surprisingly low.

Seasonal and temporary changes to clearance

Certain conditions can make the road surface effectively higher, reducing your real clearance:

• Snow and ice build-up on the road.
• Fresh asphalt or resurfacing that raises the road slightly.
• Temporary construction mats or ramps.

Never rely only on GPS or old memory; always observe current signs and conditions on the road.

Legal Consequences of Hitting a Low Bridge or Tunnel

Colliding with a low bridge or tunnel opening is not just an accident—it often brings serious legal and financial consequences.

Potential penalties

• Traffic citations: Fines for ignoring posted restrictions or operating an overheight vehicle on a restricted route.
• Civil liability: You or your company may be held responsible for:
  • Damage to the bridge or tunnel
  • Damage to signs, pavement, and guardrails
  • Cleanup and towing costs
• Insurance impacts: Premium increases or denied claims if you violated posted restrictions.
• License points or suspensions: Particularly for professional CDL drivers.

Impact on moving companies and owner-operators

For movers and independent truckers, a low-bridge collision can mean:

• Lost clients due to delays or damaged property.
• Negative online reviews and reputation damage.
• Unexpected out-of-pocket expenses not fully covered by insurance.

Prevention is always cheaper than repair—proper planning is non-negotiable.

Route Planning to Avoid Low Bridges and Tunnels

The safest way to deal with bridge and tunnel height restrictions is to plan routes that avoid problems altogether. This applies whether you operate a full fleet or you’re moving household goods in a rental truck for the first time.

Use truck-specific GPS and routing tools

• Truck GPS units: Many professional navigation devices allow you to input vehicle height, length, and weight, then avoid incompatible bridges and tunnels.
• Routing apps for commercial vehicles: Some smartphone apps are designed specifically for trucks and include:
  • Low-bridge alerts
  • Truck route recommendations
  • Hazardous material restrictions (if relevant)
• State DOT websites and maps: Many provide truck route maps and low-clearance locations, especially around major cities.

Plan before you drive, not on the fly

Best practices include:

• Review the full route, including start and end city streets, not just interstates.
• Check alternative routes in case of detours or closures.
• Avoid shortcuts suggested by standard car navigation systems—they often send trucks onto parkways, narrow streets, or low underpasses.

When to trust signs over GPS

If your GPS says a road is suitable but you see a posted low clearance that’s less than your vehicle height:

• Always trust the sign.
• Stop safely in a legal location and re-route.
• Never attempt to “squeeze under” or drive in the center of an arched bridge to gain extra inches.

Practical Tips for Moving Truck Drivers and First-Time Renters

Many low-bridge incidents involve drivers who are new to driving large vehicles. If you’re renting a moving truck or box truck, a little extra caution can save you from a disaster.

Essential safety checklist before departure

• Confirm truck height from the rental company and verify it yourself if possible.
• Write the height on a note and tape it on the dashboard where you can’t miss it.
• Plan a truck-safe route using major roads and highways as much as possible.
• Avoid parkways, scenic byways, and shortcuts unless you are certain they permit trucks.

Driving habits that prevent low-bridge incidents

• Scan for signs early: Pay attention to yellow warning signs about upcoming height restrictions.
• Reduce speed approaching overpasses: This gives you more time to check signs and react.
• Use a spotter in tight areas: In parking lots, alleys, or under canopies, have someone outside the truck guide you.
• Never follow a smaller vehicle blindly: Just because a car fits doesn’t mean your truck will.

What to do if you approach a low bridge unexpectedly

If you suddenly see a low-clearance sign and you’re unsure whether you fit:

1. Do not panic-brake in traffic. Slow down smoothly and safely.
2. Look for a safe place to pull over before the bridge or tunnel.
3. Follow any provided detour signs for trucks or oversize vehicles.
4. Use your hazard lights if necessary to alert drivers behind you while you adjust your route.

Bridge and Tunnel Height Restrictions Around the World

If you’re driving across borders or in different countries, clearance rules and sign formats may change. The core principle—never exceed the posted height—remains universal.

Common international practices

Country/Region	Usual Measurement Units	Typical Legal Max Height	Notes
United States	Feet & Inches	13’6″–14′	Many urban low-clearance bridges
Canada	Meters	4.15–4.3 m	Most signage metric; some dual units near U.S. border
European Union	Meters	4.0 m standard	Older city centers may have very low arches
UK & Ireland	Meters (often dual)	Around 4.95 m max infrastructure	Common low bridges on local roads

When driving in a different country, familiarize yourself with local truck regulations and an accurate conversion of your vehicle’s height.

How Professional Movers Help You Avoid Clearance Problems

Hiring professional movers is not just about manpower—it’s also about expertise on the road. Experienced moving companies deal with bridge and tunnel height restrictions every day and know how to navigate tricky routes.

Advantages of using experienced movers

• Advanced route planning: Professionals plan truck-safe routes that account for bridge and tunnel restrictions.
• Knowledge of local hazards: They’re familiar with local low bridges, narrow streets, and restricted zones.
• Right-sized equipment: They choose trucks that fit your neighborhood’s access conditions.
• Risk reduction: Fewer chances of last-minute surprises or costly incidents.

If you’d rather not worry about clearances, routing, and navigating a large truck yourself, consider partnering with experts. United Local Movers can plan a safe, efficient move that respects every bridge, tunnel, and access restriction along the way, so your belongings arrive on time and intact.

Emergency Actions If You Get Stuck Under a Bridge or Tunnel

Even with the best planning, mistakes can happen. If your truck becomes wedged under a bridge or tunnel entrance, your actions in the next few minutes are critical for safety.

Immediate steps to take

1. Stop immediately. Do not attempt to force your way through; you can worsen the damage.
2. Turn on hazard lights to warn other drivers.
3. Check for injuries among passengers and nearby motorists.
4. Call emergency services or local authorities. Report your location, vehicle type, and whether there are injuries or leaks.
5. Follow instructions from law enforcement or road authorities on the scene.

What you should not do

• Do not back up blindly into traffic.
• Do not attempt to deflate tires or unload on a busy roadway without guidance—it’s extremely dangerous.
• Do not flee the scene. This can turn a bad situation into a criminal matter.

Checklist: How to Stay Clear of Height Restriction Trouble

Use this quick checklist every time you drive a large truck or moving van:

• ✔ Know your exact vehicle height (and write it on your dashboard).
• ✔ Use a truck-aware GPS or routing tool.
• ✔ Avoid roads that ban trucks or have known parkway-style overpasses.
• ✔ Read every height sign—even if you’ve driven the route before.
• ✔ Slow down when approaching any bridge or tunnel with posted restrictions.
• ✔ Re-route immediately if the posted clearance is less than your height.
• ✔ Consider hiring professional movers if you’re unsure about driving a large vehicle.

Final Thoughts: Respect Height Restrictions and Protect Your Move

Bridge and tunnel height restrictions for trucks are not suggestions—they’re hard limits designed to keep roads safe and traffic moving. Whether you’re a veteran CDL driver or a first-time rental truck customer, understanding your vehicle’s height, reading signs correctly, and planning your route with care will help you avoid collisions, fines, and expensive delays.

If you prefer to leave the route planning and clearance concerns to professionals, United Local Movers is ready to help. From selecting the right truck size to navigating complex city streets with low bridges, a skilled team can make your move safer, smoother, and far less stressful.