What vehicle is classified as an oversized vehicle?
Oversized vehicles are those that exceed the permissible dimensions, weight, and axle loads regulated by law. In Poland, these issues are governed by the Road Traffic Law and the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure and Development. These legal acts address the technical conditions for vehicles and their admission to road traffic.
Oversized vehicles – dimensions
Legal regulations specify the standard dimensions of vehicles. Any vehicle that exceeds the specified norms will be considered an oversized vehicle.
Vehicle length
A single vehicle should not exceed 12 meters, while a vehicle combination consisting of a truck and a trailer may have a maximum length of 16.5 meters. A vehicle with a semi-trailer can reach a length of 18.75 meters.
Vehicle width
The standard width of a vehicle should not exceed 2.55 meters. However, an exception is made for vehicles transporting goods under controlled temperature conditions. In this case, the permissible width is 2.60 meters.
Vehicle height
The maximum permissible height of a vehicle on public roads is currently 4 meters.
If a vehicle exceeds the dimensions mentioned above, it is classified as an oversized vehicle. In this case, it is necessary to obtain the appropriate permits to operate on public roads.
What weight must a vehicle reach to be classified as oversized?
A key factor in classifying a vehicle as oversized is, of course, its weight. The permissible weight for a two-axle vehicle is 18 tons, for a three-axle vehicle, it is 25 tons, and for a combination of vehicles, it is 40 tons. This includes the total weight of the vehicle and its cargo. A vehicle is considered oversized if its weight exceeds these values. It requires specialized permits and often even special escort. An important factor is the load exerted by each axle on the road surface. Exceeding the permissible values classifies the vehicle as oversized.
The transported cargo matters
Sometimes the classification of a vehicle as oversized depends on the cargo. Examples include construction machinery, infrastructure components, or steel and concrete structures. In such cases, the vehicle may exceed the permissible weight or dimensions. In this situation, it is necessary to obtain special permits.
SILVA OLSZTYN – Transportation of oversized vehicles
Organizing the transportation of specialized vehicles with large weight and dimensions requires appropriate knowledge and experience.
