Permit requirement for the transportation of agricultural machinery

The transportation of agricultural machinery places special demands on drivers, operators and authorities. Due to their often above-average dimensions, their high weight or their special design, many agricultural machines exceed the limits specified in the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). Special permits are often required to move such vehicles on public roads with legal certainty.

A key component of this is the so-called 70 StVZO exemption permit, which allows agricultural machinery to be transported outside the usual permissible dimensions and weights. But when exactly does § 70 StVZO apply? What requirements must be met for the permit? And how does the application work in practice? We answer these questions in detail below.

When does §70 StVZO apply?

Section 70 of the StVZO regulates exceptions to the normal registration regulations, particularly with regard to vehicle dimensions, weights and superstructures. This regulation is central to the transportation of agricultural machinery, as agricultural machinery is often wider, higher or longer than the legal maximum values.

Requirements for exemption approval

An exemption permit in accordance with Section 70 StVZO is required if

• The permissible vehicle width of 2.55 meters is exceeded. Agricultural machinery can have widths of 3 meters and more.
• The permissible vehicle height (usually 4 meters) is exceeded, e.g. in the case of high combine harvesters.
• The maximum overall vehicle length is exceeded, e.g. by attachments or trailers.
• The permissible total weight or axle load is exceeded, as many agricultural machines are heavier than standard vehicles.

In addition, the load – i.e. the agricultural machine itself – must be adequately secured and must not endanger other road users or damage the road infrastructure.

In addition to the exemption permit, exemptions or special regulations for agricultural vehicles in accordance with Section 70 StVZO are also possible for some machines if they are driven on public roads, e.g. on the way between fields or to the farm. However, there are restrictions regarding the permitted speeds and routes.

How does the application process work?

The application for a 70 StVZO exemption is usually submitted to the responsible road traffic authority, usually at district level or to the district governments. Step-by-step:

1. Prepare the application. The applicant – often the farmer or the contracted transport company – must submit all relevant data on the vehicle or load. This includes vehicle data, exact dimensions, total weight, axle loads and the planned transport route.
2. Evidence and documents. Technical drawings, expert opinions or photos of the machine are often also required. Proof of proper load securing and, if necessary, the provision of escort vehicles is also required.
3. Submission of the application. The application can usually be submitted in writing, sometimes also digitally. The authority checks all documents and assesses whether road safety is guaranteed.
4. Processing time. Depending on the authority and complexity, processing can take between a few days and several weeks. Early application is therefore highly recommended.
5. Issuance and conditions. If the permit is granted, it often contains precise conditions, e.g. time windows for the journey, prescribed escort vehicles or special markings.
6. Costs. Fees are charged for the exemption permit, which can vary depending on the scope and effort involved.

Transportation requirements for agricultural machinery in Germany

In addition to the permit requirement, there are clear technical and organizational requirements that must be met when transporting agricultural machinery.

Dimensions, weights and securing regulations

The transportation of agricultural machinery on public roads is subject to strict regulations regarding dimensions, weight and load securing. These regulations serve to ensure road safety and protect the infrastructure:

• Maximum vehicle width. Normally 2.55 m, with permissible exceptions often up to 3.50 m (depending on route and permit). Wider transports often require escort vehicles.
• Height and length. The permitted height is usually 4 m, longer vehicles or combinations may require a separate permit.
• Weight. The permissible axle loads and the total weight must either be adhered to or approved. Excess weight can place a heavy burden on the infrastructure and is often only possible with conditions.
• Load securing. In accordance with the requirements of VDI Guideline 2700 and the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), machines must be safely secured against slipping, tipping and falling.
• Labeling. Wide or heavy transports must be equipped with appropriate warning markings, signs and, if necessary, lighting.

Avoid typical errors when applying

Applying for a special permit for the transportation of agricultural machinery often involves a lot of red tape. To avoid delays, rejections or additional claims, applicants should be aware of and avoid typical mistakes:

Regional differences in the approval authorities

A common mistake is choosing the wrong competent authority: In Germany, approval authorities are organized differently depending on the federal state – often they are the district offices, sometimes district governments or municipal road traffic offices. Other typical mistakes:

• Incomplete or inaccurate information on dimensions and weight;
• missing proof of load securing or accompanying vehicles;
• Application submitted too soon before the start of transportation;
• Ignorance of the prescribed transport times and routes;
• neglect of the special labeling and lighting obligations.

Avoiding these mistakes will speed up the approval process considerably and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Conclusion: How to ensure legally compliant and efficient transportation

The transportation of agricultural machinery requires careful planning and compliance with numerous legal regulations. Applying for a 70 StVZO is often essential if dimensions or weights exceed the standard limits. Early application, precise knowledge of the regional authorities responsible and compliance with all technical and safety-related requirements are essential.

This is the only way to ensure that transportation is not only legally compliant, but also efficient and without delays. Optimal load securing and close coordination with the authorities ensure that farmers and transport service providers get their machines to their destination quickly and safely – without fines or traffic disruptions.