PA Special Hauling Bond Overview
- Purpose: To guarantee payment for all fees, costs and expenses owed
- Who Needs It: Anyone applying for a special hauling permit with the state
- Regulating Body: The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue
- Required Coverage: Typically $5,000, determined by the DOR
- Premium Rate: $100 for a $5,000 bond
What Is a Pennsylvania Oversize/Overweight Hauling Bond?
A Pennsylvania oversize and overweight bond guarantees that haulers pay the Department of Transportation (PennDOT) all fees and expenses related to special hauling permits. The bond is required under 67 Pa. Code § 179.4. It forms a three-party agreement between:
- Principal: The hauler or permit service filing the bond
- Obligee: PennDOT's Central Permit Office
- Surety: The company issuing the bond
Who Needs a Pennsylvania Special Hauling Bond?
You need this bond to register an account with PennDOT's Central Permit Office. A registered account lets you apply for oversize and overweight permits yourself through PennDOT's Automated Permit Routing/Analysis System (APRAS). It also lets you join PennDOT's monthly billing system instead of paying for each permit upfront.
Haulers without a registered account must apply through one of PennDOT's Permit Service Partners. Permit services must also register and file a bond.
How Much Bond Coverage Do I Need?
| Registration Type | Minimum Bond Amount |
|---|---|
| Standard Registration | $2,000 |
| Monthly Billing Participant | $5,000 |
| Set by the Central Permit Office | Any higher amount PennDOT requires |
Many haulers choose a $5,000 bond so they can use monthly billing. If you're unsure which amount you need, confirm with the Central Permit Office before you buy.
How Much Does a Pennsylvania Oversize Hauling Bond Cost?
A $2,000 or $5,000 Pennsylvania special hauling permit bond costs $100 per year. Bonds up to $50,000 can be purchased instantly online. Bonds over $50,000 require a quick application review. We'll provide a personalized quote after that review.
How Do I Get a Pennsylvania Special Hauling Bond?
You can get your bond online in four steps:
- Select your required bond amount.
- Enter your personal and business information.
- Complete the secure checkout.
- Receive your bond and submit it with your permit registration packet.
If your bond is over $50,000, we’ll provide your quote within one business day. Then, you can checkout online at your convenience.
What Does the Bond Cover?
The bond is financial security for any unpaid expenses or damages incurred by oversize and overweight hauling. If you fail to pay, PennDOT can file a claim against your bond. The surety pays valid claims up to the full bond amount, and you must repay the surety.
This bond is not insurance. It doesn't cover accidents, injuries or property damage. Those are covered by your separate liability insurance.
How Do I Register for a Special Hauling Permit in PA?
To set up a special hauling permit account with PennDOT, follow these steps:
- Complete the Registration Agreement for Special Hauling Permits (Form M-936RA).
- Purchase your surety bond in the required amount.
- Complete the APRAS Supplemental Registration (Form M-936RAS) if you plan to apply for permits online.
- Carry liability insurance of at least $250,000 per person and $1 million per occurrence, with the Commonwealth listed as an additional insured.
- Submit your registration forms and bond to the Central Permit Office.
Once your account is active, you can apply for permits in APRAS. View the current permit fee schedule here.
Does My Bond Need to Be Renewed?
The bond stays in effect until the Central Permit Office acknowledges its cancellation in writing. Your premium is billed annually. Pay your SuretyBonds.com renewal invoice before your term ends to keep the bond active.
If your bond is canceled, your registration is no longer valid and you can't obtain permits directly through your account.
How Do I Update My Bond?
Email [email protected] to request a change to your bond. Common changes include:
- Business name
- Physical or mailing address
- Federal tax ID
Remember that your bond name must match your PennDOT registration. Update both whenever your business name changes.
Do I Need a Bond in Every State I Haul Through?
Yes, in any states that require a specific surety bond. See our oversize or overweight hauling bonds guide for other states.
Who Regulates Oversize Hauling in Pennsylvania?
The PennDOT Central Permit Office oversees special hauling permits and the bond requirement. Contact them at 717-787-4680 or [email protected].
