Applying for approval for heavy goods transport in accordance with Section 70 StVZO – explained step by step

The transportation of oversized or particularly heavy loads requires careful planning and legal permits. A 70 StVZO exemption permit plays a central role here, as many oversized and heavy loads may not be transported without this permit. In the following, we will show you step by step how the approval process works, what costs and expert opinions are required to obtain an exemption permit in accordance with 70 StVZO and what haulage companies should pay particular attention to.

70 StVZO exemption permit: Who needs it?

The exemption permit in accordance with 70 StVZO is always required if vehicles or transports do not comply with the general regulations of the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations. Without this permit, participation in road traffic would not be permitted in many cases. Typical applications are

• Transports with oversized dimensions. If a vehicle or load exceeds the legally permissible width of 2.55 m, height of 4 m or length of 20.75 m, the obligation to obtain a permit applies.
• 70 StVZO 29 StVO Heavy goods transport. As soon as permissible axle loads or the total weight are exceeded, an exemption is mandatory. This applies, for example, to the transportation of construction machinery, industrial plant or bridge elements.
• Special vehicles outside the standard dimensions. These include work platforms, cranes, large forklift trucks or vehicles with special superstructures that do not comply with the regulations for technical reasons.

The application ensures that safety and traffic flow are guaranteed even with unusual vehicle dimensions or loads. At the same time, companies benefit from the necessary flexibility to carry out special tasks reliably and in compliance with the law.

Application in accordance with Section 70 StVZO Heavy goods transport – forms and procedure

In order to apply for an exemption permit for a forklift truck in accordance with 70 StVZO, haulage companies or vehicle owners must submit an official application form to the responsible authority. Although the process is regulated nationwide, the responsible authorities may vary depending on the federal state (e.g. road traffic office, district office or special approval authorities). The most important steps in the process are

• Obtaining forms. The application forms are usually available online on the websites of the state authorities. Many authorities now also offer digital application portals, which simplify the process considerably.
• Submission of relevant data. Detailed information on the vehicle (e.g. dimensions, axle loads, total weight), the load and the planned transport routes is required. For recurring transports, it may make sense to have several routes checked at the same time.
• Proof of safety measures. These include the planned use of escort vehicles (BF2, BF3 or BF4), police escorts and technical route inspections. This evidence is crucial to ensure road safety.

As the processing time can take several weeks, companies should submit the application in good time, preferably four to six weeks before the start of transportation. For particularly complex 70 StVZO heavy goods transport, it is advisable to have the application accompanied by specialized service providers or forwarding agencies.

Exemption permit according to 70 StVZO Costs and expert opinion

The cost of the 70 StVZO exemption depends on the scope of the transport. As a rule:

• Administrative fees (between €100 and €500 depending on the federal state);
• Additional fees for route tests;
• Costs for a technical report to obtain an exemption permit in accordance with 70 StVZO, which confirms the roadworthiness of the vehicle.

It is important for haulage companies to calculate these costs at an early stage, as they can vary considerably depending on the project.

Validity of exemption permit 70 StVZO

Exemption permit 70 StVZO is usually valid for one year, but can vary depending on the type of transport or federal state. For regular transportation, it is advisable to apply for a permanent exemption permit and Section 70 StVZO in order to save time and administrative effort.

Recommendations on 70 StVZO and tips for haulage companies

To ensure that the approval process runs smoothly, companies should observe the following points:

• Early application (at least 4 weeks before the start of transportation);
• Coordinate with the authorities on routing and road safety;
• Use of experts for the preparation of an expert opinion in accordance with 70 StVZO exemption approval;
• Internal training in order to correctly implement the recommendations for 70 StVZO;
• Consideration of additional regulations such as 70 StVZO 29 StVO when it comes to traffic regulations.

Example: Exemption for a forklift truck

A classic application is to apply for a special permit for a forklift truck in accordance with 70 StVZO. This is necessary if the forklift truck does not comply with the standard dimensions due to its design or is to be used for road traffic. The applicant must:

• Submit the technical data of the vehicle;
• submit an expert opinion in accordance with §70 StVZO confirming operational safety;
• inform the competent authority whether the forklift truck will be used regularly or only once on public roads.

The 70 StVZO exemption permit is essential for haulage companies that regularly transport large and heavy loads. Delays and additional costs can be avoided through careful planning, early application and compliance with all official requirements. Those who also rely on experienced partners not only receive the necessary permit, but can also handle transports safely, efficiently and in compliance with the law.