In the transport of goods, it is crucial to know the regulations governing the maximum authorised weight for transport vehicles, as these rules ensure road safety and prevent the deterioration of infrastructures. One of the most common configurations in the sector is the 5-axle truck, which is widely used for both national and international transport. In this article, we will explore in detail the maximum authorised weight for a 5-axle truck, how it is determined and what factors you need to take into account to comply with the regulations.
Maximum authorised weight for 5-axle trucks
In Europe, legislation stipulates that the maximum authorised weight for a 5-axle truck is 40 tonnes in most cases. However, this figure may vary depending on the specific characteristics of the truck and the type of load it is carrying. For example:
- 40 tonnes: This is the standard maximum weight for a 5-axle truck with semi-trailer.
- 44 tonnes: If the truck is carrying a 40-foot ISO container or is involved in certain specific agricultural or industrial activities.
These limitations are designed to balance the load capacity of the vehicle with the demands of the road infrastructure, reducing the impact on roads and bridges.
Factors influencing the maximum permissible weight for a 5-axle truck
The maximum authorised weight for a 5-axle truck is determined by a combination of technical, legal and operational factors that affect both safety and transport efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at each of these elements:
Type of cargo
The type of goods being transported plays a crucial role. For example:
- Standard goods: These include non-hazardous goods such as agricultural products, textiles or industrial parts. Their transport is usually governed by standard maximum weight regulations.
- Dangerous goods: In the case of the transport of dangerous goods by road, additional strict regulations such as ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) apply. These regulations set not only weight limits, but also requirements for safety, labelling and special equipment.
Cargo distribution
The way the load is distributed on the axles of the truck directly affects the permissible weight. Poor distribution can lead to:
- Overweight on a specific axle, which could damage road infrastructure or increase the risk of accidents.
- Imbalance of the vehicle: affecting manoeuvrability and road safety. To optimise distribution, it is essential to have tools such as portable scales and to ensure that drivers are properly trained.
Truck characteristics
The technical specifications of the vehicle are decisive for the maximum authorised weight. These include:
- Type of trailer or semi-trailer: Trucks carrying 40-foot ISO containers, for example, can reach up to 44 tonnes in certain cases within the EU.
- Suspension and axle load capacity: An air suspension system can allow for higher weights compared to traditional systems.
- Vehicle maintenance condition: A well-maintained truck ensures the ability to handle heavy loads safely and efficiently.
Local and international regulations
Although European standards set a maximum weight of 40 tonnes for 5-axle trucks (and 44 tonnes in specific cases), each country may have additional regulations or specific restrictions:
- Road infrastructure: Some regions with more fragile roads or bridges with limited capacity may impose stricter restrictions.
- Special authorisations: In certain cases, operators may apply for permits to exceed the maximum weight, but must comply with additional requirements.
It is essential that transport companies keep up to date on local and international regulations to avoid penalties.
Why is it important to comply with the maximum authorised weight?
Compliance with the maximum authorised weight is essential not only to avoid penalties, but also for safety and sustainability reasons:
- Road safety: Overweight vehicles have a higher risk of accidents due to the impact on the braking system and stability.
- Infrastructure preservation: Overweight can cause significant damage to roads and bridges, which increases maintenance costs.
- Transport efficiency: A truck operating within established limits can optimise fuel consumption and reduce vehicle wear and tear.
For these reasons, transport companies like Tiger Truck, which specialise in domestic overland transport, make sure they comply with all regulations to provide safe and efficient services.
How do you know if you are within the permitted limits?
To ensure that your 5-axle truck complies with the maximum authorised weight, you must carry out certain checks:
- Check the vehicle specifications: Check the manufacturer’s manual to find out the load capacities and limits established for each axle.
- Pre-weighing: Before setting off on a journey, weigh the loaded vehicle on certified scales to confirm that the total weight is within the legal limits.
- Correct load distribution: Use efficient loading systems to ensure that the weight is balanced and does not exceed the permitted limit per axle.
Special cases: International and groupage transport
In transport operations such as international groupage transport, where several loads from different customers are grouped together, the total weight of the truck must comply with regulations. This involves precise planning to avoid exceeding the maximum authorised weight, especially on routes that pass through countries with different regulations.
On the other hand, in full truckload services, the weight of the total load needs to be carefully calculated to make the best use of the vehicle’s capacity without violating regulations.
Consequences of exceeding the maximum authorised weight for a 5-axle truck
Exceeding the maximum authorised weight for a 5-axle truck can have serious repercussions, such as:
- Fines and penalties: Fines for overweight can be significant, and transport companies could face operational restrictions if they do not comply with the regulations.
- Vehicle damage: Excess weight increases wear and tear on components such as tyres, suspension and brakes, which increases maintenance costs.
- Environmental impact: An overloaded truck consumes more fuel and emits more polluting gases, which negatively affects the environment.
Conclusion
The maximum authorised weight for a 5-axle truck is a critical issue in road transport, especially for companies that handle large volumes of cargo. Complying with the regulations not only ensures the safety of drivers and other road users, but also optimises operations and reduces operating costs.
If you need transport services that comply with all regulations, trust experts like Tiger Truck, who offer safe and secure solutions tailored to your needs. From national transport to international groupage, they always operate within legal limits to ensure an efficient and sustainable service.