Tridem vs Tandem trailer

Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by Kdub99, Apr 11, 2023.

  1. Kdub99

    Kdub99 Bobtail Member

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    Was in the market to get another stepdeck and getting a really good deal on 53ft Tridem.

    Was wondering what I can scale with a tridem?
    Is it still on 80k lbs gross or more?

    Do I need a permit for the extra axle?
    Any other laws, restrictions or things to watch out for?

    I'm from Canada so not quite sure about the Us laws because they are alot different from here in Canada you get more axles and can haul more weight but that doesn't seem to be the case in the US.
     
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  3. NH Guy

    NH Guy Medium Load Member

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    80k limit still applies without permits. You do get to load heavier on the axle set, i think its 51k instead of 34k. Most triaxle step decks are running between 1 or two states so its easier to maintain the permits, or for transporting heavy equipment where they would need the extra axle for the increased weight.
     
  4. 201

    201 Road Train Member

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    Hi kdub, hey, quick question,,are Canadian drivers really as bad as that stupid WC program makes them out to be? I think it's terrible and that show should be cancelled. Not sure the difference between a triaxle and a 4 foot spread tandem, I think both allow 51K( 34,000 and 17,000?) on the back in the US. I'd go with a spread tandem, if applicable,, more tires, more flats,,,
     
    artantx Thanks this.
  5. Rontonio

    Rontonio Road Train Member

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    I believe, federal bridge formula will limit a 4’6” axle spacing (so 9’ 1st to 33rs axle) to 42,500

    and a 5’ 0” spread to 43,500

    on the STAA system

    state by state May grant you more
     
  6. singlescrewshaker

    singlescrewshaker Road Train Member

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    Ding ding ding, We have a winner!!
    All depends on axle spacing, & some jurisdictions may allow you to permit for more off STAA routes..

    Screenshot_20230412_160732_Samsung Internet.jpg
     
    cke, booley and CAXPT Thank this.
  7. Long FLD

    Long FLD Road Train Member

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    The simple answer is it depends. Lol. It depends on what state you’re in. Some states require an extended weight permit to go over 80k gross, some only require you to raise the weight on your cab card, some require both. Some only allow 80k on interstates, some don’t care, some sell you a permit to run over 80k on interstates.

    So it depends on where you are planning on running.
     
  8. beastr123

    beastr123 Road Train Member

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    You can license for more weight in many western states (ND,SD.WY,MT,ID,WA,OR,NV,UT,NE,CO) although some restrictions will apply and permits may be required to exceed 80K and up to 89K for 6 axles.
    There are also some other states that I have hearsay information about (MI,NH,ME,VT) that have some state regs and restrictions.
     
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  9. CAXPT

    CAXPT Road Train Member

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    They're called Michigan Sleds, but of course, this is in Michigan Only registered trucks but they pay a higher fee, also. Other than the frost laws. Here's the link to the brochure.
     
    singlescrewshaker Thanks this.
  10. Cat sdp

    Cat sdp . .

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    New England/New York you can get annual reducible permits for 99K-107K with six axles…..


    Except CT they suck …..lol
     
    singlescrewshaker, booley and CAXPT Thank this.
  11. Kdub99

    Kdub99 Bobtail Member

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    Not sure what WC program but have seen some crazy dumbness but also seen the most ###### drivers up here in Canada especially the ones traveling BC-AB routes. Definitely a challenging route to alot of people who have driven majority in the states

     
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