Washington State is about to kick off its chain carry season for commercial vehicles starting November 1.
The details: From November 1 to April 1 each year, all vehicles and combos over 10,000 pounds gross weight must have at least two extra tire chains on board—no matter the weather.
- This rule covers popular mountain routes like I-90 from North Bend to Ellensburg, I-82, portions of SR-97 and SR-2, SR-12, SR-410, SR-20, SR-542, SR-970, and SR-155.
- Chains need to be real metal (not plastic), two-sided, and at least one cross-chain must touch the road at all times.
- Washington State Patrol can approve cable chains or other devices if they work the same as traditional chains.
- Local delivery vehicles that stay out of the chain-required areas and don't cross mountain passes are exempt.
Even if chain-up signs aren't out, you are still supposed to carry those chains during the November to April window according to WSDOT.
Authorities can stop trucks without chains from entering the required areas, so truckers moving freight through the Pacific Northwest should plan ahead and avoid possible delays.