Summer might bring longer days and clearer skies, but it also brings a unique set of road restrictions that can make short-haul trucking more complicated than it seems. 

Between construction zones, seasonal weight limits, and local curfews, short-haul drivers need to stay alert and flexible to keep routes on track. Whether you're hauling goods across town or making multiple stops in a region, knowing how to handle summer road restrictions is key to staying compliant and efficient.

Watch for Construction Zones and Detours

Summer is peak roadwork season. State DOTs and local municipalities use the warm months to repair and upgrade highways, bridges, and urban roads. For short-haul drivers, this often means detours, lane closures, and reduced speed limits. These disruptions can extend your delivery windows and impact fuel efficiency.

The best way to stay ahead is to check daily construction alerts via apps like Waze, Google Maps, or state-specific DOT websites. When possible, plan alternate routes in advance and communicate ETA changes with dispatchers or customers.

Be Aware of Seasonal Weight Restrictions

While weight restrictions are more common in the spring thaw, certain regions impose summer limits as well—especially in rural or agricultural areas with older infrastructure. Local ordinances may temporarily restrict vehicle weights on bridges, residential roads, or heat-sensitive surfaces to prevent damage.

Short-haul drivers running heavier loads (like aggregate, beverages, or equipment) should double-check local DOT guidelines, especially when making deliveries off the main highway grid. Always confirm the legal gross vehicle weight (GVW) for the roads on your route.

Mind Time-of-Day Travel Restrictions

In cities and urban areas, heat-related smog and congestion often lead to summertime travel curfews or restrictions during peak hours. Some municipalities may prohibit truck traffic during the hottest part of the day or during rush hour to reduce pollution and traffic strain.

Familiarize yourself with time-based delivery windows, especially in downtown zones. If a city restricts deliveries between 3 PM and 7 PM, missing your window could mean sitting idle—or worse, facing a fine.

Plan for Longer Stops and Loading Times

High heat can slow down warehouse and dock operations. Loading docks may be understaffed or running on limited schedules to protect workers from extreme heat exposure. If you’re doing multi-stop short hauls, expect delays and build them into your schedule.

It’s smart to communicate early and often with shippers and receivers. Confirm appointment times, ask about any summer-specific delays, and adjust your route accordingly to stay on time.

Use Tech to Stay Ahead of Restrictions

GPS apps built for truckers—like Trucker Path, Rand McNally, or Garmin Dezl—often include live updates for weight limits, road closures, and time-based restrictions. Set your preferences for short-haul or local routes so the data is relevant. Many ELD systems also integrate alerts about upcoming restrictions, helping you stay compliant while on the move.

Stay Flexible, Stay Legal

Navigating summer road restrictions is part of the job, but it doesn’t have to throw off your rhythm. With some planning, the right tools, and a proactive mindset, short-haul drivers can dodge delays, avoid violations, and make the most of the busy summer season.

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