N.H. lightens load for truckers hauling oversize cargo in state

CONCORD, N.H. – The state has approved a procedure to make it easier to move oversize loads, including manufactured housing, through the state.

“This change is a good compromise that meets the needs of consumers of housing while still protecting the safety of motorists,” Transportation Commissioner Carol Murray said Thursday.

In early August, the state began vigorously enforcing the road height limit of 13 feet, 6 inches that was adopted in 1986.

But officials said customers are demanding larger homes these days, and home manufacturers have been mislabeling their loads as 13 feet, 6 inches – even when they are taller than that on flatbed trucks.

Builders and buyers of manufactured homes in New Hampshire and neighboring Maine complained at resulting delays in delivery. They had to transport the roofs separately or take a longer route through Canada.

More than half of the estimated 1,200 manufactured homes sold in Maine each year are built out of state. Murray said the changes were made after a hearing and complaints by consumers in both states.

Under the new procedure, a unit up to 14 feet, 3 inches that otherwise meets size requirements can get a permit immediately to move through New Hampshire on Interstates 89, 93 and 95, and state Route 101.

Permits can be issued for other state highways after a study to make sure there are no obstacles for vehicles that high.

Murray said the industry indicated the change could solve up to 80 percent of the problems.