In the United States, the federal weight limit for commercial trucks is 80,000 pounds (approximately 36,287 kilograms). However, recent proposals aim to increase this limit to improve freight transportation efficiency.

For example, Texas has proposed raising the maximum allowable weight from 80,000 to 97,000 pounds (36,287 to 43,998 kilograms) on certain highways by requiring a sixth axle to better distribute the load.

Still, studies have pointed out that increasing truck weight could have negative consequences on road infrastructure, particularly bridges. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has reported that roughly 27% of bridges in the U.S. are either structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. Heavier trucks could accelerate the deterioration of these structures, leading to significant repair and maintenance costs.

Additionally, a study by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) found that allowing six-axle, 91,000-pound trucks could divert over 2.3 million tons of freight annually from rail to roadways, further increasing the strain on highway infrastructure.

In California, axle weight limits are strictly regulated: 12,000 pounds for the steer axle, 34,000 pounds for the drive axle, and 34,000 pounds for the trailer axle, with a maximum gross vehicle weight of 80,000 pounds. Any proposal to increase these limits must carefully consider the potential impact on existing infrastructure and the associated maintenance costs.