The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is now accepting applications for Illinois Harvest Permits (IHPs), a free, practical tool that helps farmers and agricultural haulers move crops more efficiently during the fall harvest season.
IHPs can be obtained by applying online through IDOT’s Illinois Transportation Automated Permits website system. The permits allow farmers to haul 10 percent more weight, resulting in fewer trips, lower costs, and reduced delays.
As one of the leading producers of corn and soybeans, these permits enhance the efficiency of agricultural logistics across the state. They provide greater flexibility when loading near the vehicle’s capacity. This reduces the number of trips needed to transport the same amount of agricultural products, resulting in lower fuel costs, fewer drivers needed, and less wear and tear on vehicles. Additionally, these permits help prevent elevator backups, extra storage costs, and market delays.
The permits are only valid during the harvest season, from September 1 to December 31. In the fall, roads tend to be drier and firmer, which makes them less prone to damage. IDOT requires route authorization every 14 days to make sure vehicles avoid lower-grade bridges.
Questions about the Harvest Permit can be directed to the Department of Transportation Permit Office at dot.permitoffice@illinois.gov or by calling (217) 785-1477.