Regulations in the Netherlands
Issuing authority: the competent body
• The RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) is responsible for issuing dispensations for abnormal loads.
• The applicant may be the transport company or the shipper — what matters is that the request is complete and includes all required information.
– Application procedure :
. Preliminary route study
Before submitting the request, the planned route must be analysed. This makes it possible to check constraints (bridges, narrow passages, traffic conditions, one-way systems, local restrictions).
. Fill in the application form
The RDW provides an online (or downloadable) form to apply for a short-term exemption (one-off exemption) or, in some cases, a longer-term exemption.
. Submit the application
Submission is done via the RDW portal, with all necessary information: vehicle/convoy description, dimensions/weights, nature of the load, route, dates, and, where applicable, plans or diagrams.
. Processing time
The permit can usually be granted within a few working days, provided the file is complete.
. Compliance with operating conditions
Once the exemption is granted, the operator must comply with all conditions: designated route, permitted time windows, safety requirements, escort vehicles if needed, restrictions depending on weather or road conditions.
Types of exemptions / permits
The RDW may issue:
• A one-off / short-term exemption — for a specific journey.
• In some cases, longer-term or recurring permits — depending on how frequently abno