Humber Bridge Abnormal Loads

This page explains how abnormal loads are managed at the Humber Bridge, including crossing requirements and guidance for oversized or special vehicle traffic. If you plan to transport an abnormal load, this information will help you prepare and comply with toll and safety rules.

What Counts as an Abnormal Load?

Your vehicle is classed as an abnormal load if it meets any of the following criteria:

• Weight over 44 tonnes (44,000kg)
• Axle load over 10 tonnes (non-driving) or 11.5 tonnes (driving)
• Width more than 2.9 metres
• Rigid length over 18.65 metres

Before You Travel

If you’re moving an abnormal load, you’ll need to submit a movement order in advance. This is a legal requirement. We recommend using ESDAL (Electronic Service Delivery for Abnormal Loads) to plan and submit your request. It helps identify current restrictions and streamline the approval process.

Arrival at the Bridge

When you arrive, you’ll need to follow the escort procedures outlined below. Do not proceed without authorisation. Loads will be inspected, and your documents will be checked against your submitted movement order.

How the new tolling system affects abnormal loads

To support the transition away from toll booths, abnormal load movements will be managed in several stages whilst the civil works are completed.

Stage 1 – Temporary suspension of escorted movements

When: From midnight on Friday 30th January to 00:01 on Monday 2nd February 2026.

What this means: Escorted abnormal loads will not be permitted during this period.

This decision allows HB staff to familiarise themselves with the new layout and to assess any required changes to the holding bay before escorted movements resume. Certain areas of the carriageway will also be inaccessible during essential works, meaning some vehicle types cannot be safely accommodated at this stage.

Stage 2 – Temporary escort process in place

When: From Monday 2nd February 2026.

What this means: A temporary process will be used to facilitate abnormal load movements.

For abnormal loads travelling northbound:

• Position your vehicle in the wide load bay on the south-west side of the A15 approach road

For abnormal loads travelling southbound:

• Position your vehicle in the temporary designated holding bay on the north-east side of the bridge, immediately after the bus stop
• The area will be clearly marked with cones and signage

Additional requirements:

• Call Humber Bridge Control on 01482 423537 to request an escort
  • A Security and Traffic Officer will be dispatched
• Vehicle details will be requested
• Drivers must provide an email address to receive guidance on payment or account creation
• Movement details will be shared internally with Customer Services

Next stages

More information about the below stages will be provided in due course.

• Stage 3 – Southbound restrictions for surfacing works
  • When: From Midnight Sunday 1st March to Midnight Friday 6th March
  • What this means:
    • Southbound abnormal loads will not be permitted
    • This is required to complete red tarmac resurfacing works
    • The temporary southbound holding bay will be removed during this period
    • Northbound abnormal loads will not be affected.
• Stage 4 – Final arrangements following completion of works
  • When: (early March 2026, following stage 3 – TBC)
  • Definitive guidance and permanent processes for abnormal loads will be published once all works are complete.

Exceptional loads

For some unusual abnormal load movements, vehicles may be guided into a new holding area on the north-west side of the bridge. Access will be via an automated barrier within the red tarmac lane.

Indemnity Forms & Prior Notice

If your vehicle meets the criteria for an abnormal load, you’ll need the following to the cross:

• Authorisation from the police
• Prior approval from ourselves
• A completed indemnity form (provided by your company) accepting liability for any damage

Loads that arrive without approval may be held while further guidance is sought.

Weather and Wind Conditions

Light or bulky loads (e.g. portable buildings) may not be permitted to cross during high winds due to the risk from gusts.

During high winds, all loads over 44 tonnes will need to follow enhanced safety checks.

Check the homepage of this website or our social media for bridge status updates:

X (Formerly Twitter): @HumBridgeNews
Facebook: @HumberBridgeOfficial

Abnormal Load Charges

Vehicles carrying an abnormal load, must pay an additional charge. For a list of toll prices, visit our Toll Prices Page.

Abnormal Load Charges from Saturday 31st January 2026: