![SDVH [Self Drive Vehicle Hire]](https://sdvh.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/SDVH_logo_concept_4-02.svg){kind=logo}
Hearing a slew of terms related to lorry sizes can leave you confused, with no idea how to classify or differentiate between them. We understand that, and that’s why we decided to write you a short but detailed guide on everything related to lorries and their size. After reading this text, you will know everything there is to know about truck categories, making hiring the right lorry a breeze.
Table Of Contents
- 1 Lorry Size Overview
- 2 What Is A Lorry Precisely?
- 3 Lorry Sizes (UK & World): Simplified Breakdown Of Lorry Types By Axle Configuration And MAM
- 4 Brief But Deep Understanding Of Axle And Weight Connection
- 5 Lorry Dimensions: Is There Maximum Height, Width And Length?
- 6 Frequently Asked Questions
- 7 Conclusion
Lorry Size Overview
Before we get into the nitty gritty of lorry sizes here is a general overview of different lorry sizes based on their number of axles:
| Number of Axles | GVW |
|---|---|
| 2 axles (smaller lorries) | Over 3.5 - 7.5 tonnes |
| 2 axles (bigger lorries) | 7.5 - 18 tonnes |
| 3 axles (rigid) | 25 - 26 tonnes |
| 3 axles (artic) | 26 tonnes |
| 4 axles (rigid) | 30 - 32 tonnes |
| 4 axles (artic) | 36 - 38 tonnes |
| 4 axles (vehicle + draw-bar trailer) | 30 - 36 tonnes |
| 5 axles (artic) | 40 tonnes |
| 5 axles (vehicle + draw-bar trailer) | 40 tonnes |
| 6 axles (artic) | 41 tonnes |
| 6 axles (drawbar) | 41 tonnes |
| 6 axles (artic) | 44 tonnes |
| 6 axles (drawbar) | 44 tonnes |
| 6 axles (artic) | 44 tonnes |
| 6 axles (drawbar) | 44 tonnes |
What Is A Lorry Precisely?
A lorry is a motor vehicle that’s designed to transport heavy goods. These vehicles have a maximum gross weight of over 3.5 tonnes.
Lorries date back to 1896, as one of the inventions of German automotive pioneer Gottlieb Daimler. Over time, they evolved into the vehicles they are today, with various engine types, each with an impressive load capacity.
All vehicles over 3.5 tonnes are classified as HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicles). You can learn here about what an HGV is in more detail. To use any heavy goods vehicle for commercial purposes, you need to gain additional qualifications and obtain a Driver CPC licence.
Lorry Sizes (UK & World): Simplified Breakdown Of Lorry Types By Axle Configuration And MAM
Now that you have an answer to the question ‘What is a lorry’, we can focus on different types of lorries based on the axle configurations.
Smaller 2-Axle Lorries
The smallest type in the lineup, this vehicle has a maximum gross weight (GVW) of over 3.5 tonnes but not more than 7.5 tonnes. Some of the most common uses for this type of lorry are moving services and the transportation of commercial goods.
If you intend to drive a 2-axle lorry for personal purposes and obtained your licence before 1997, you do not need any other licences.
If you’re interested in learning about 7.5t lorry dimensions, you can check out our article, where we cover all the important details about this vehicle, such as length, width, height and cargo-carrying capacity.
Bigger Two-Axle Lorries
No bulky item poses a challenge to this vehicle. When it comes to gross weight, the two-axle lorry has over 7.5 tonnes, and you can tackle any heavy cargo demands with it. Large furniture, heavy machinery, construction materials – you name it, this truck can transport it. One thing to note, though, is that to drive a truck with this capacity, you’ll need to have a valid operator’s licence along with your valid driving licence.
Multi-Axle Lorries
As the name suggests, this type of lorry consists of a larger number of axles. The number ranges from 3 to 6. With the impressive capacity of this vehicle, you can tackle massive cargo. The maximum gross weight in the UK for this vehicle ranges from 25 to 44 tonnes.
Multi-axle trucks can be either articulated or rigid. Note the difference between the two before you decide on hiring one. Rigid vehicles consist of a single rigid frame, and they have no articulation point between the front and rear sections. Articulated lorries, on the other hand, are trucks that are made out of two or more sections that are connected by a pivoting joint.
See our blog post for insight into the dimensions of 44-tonne lorries in the UK.
Lorry Sizes In US & Canada
When it comes to the USA, the classifications of lorries (trucks) also rely on GVW, with classes ranging from 1 to 8. Additionally, they are categorised into broader categories, designating classes 1 and 2 as light duty vehicles, classes 3 through 6 as medium duty and classes 7 and 8 as heavy duty. Here is the breakdown of the truck sizes and their GVW:
- Class 1 – 0 – 6,000 lbs (0–2,722 kg)
- Class 2a – 6,001 – 8,500 lbs (2,722–3,856 kg)
- Class 2b – 8,501 – 10,000 lbs (3,856–4,536 kg)
- Class 3 – 10,001 – 14,000 lbs (4,536–6,350 kg)
- Class 4 – 14,001 – 16,000 lbs (6,351–7,257 kg)
- Class 5 – 16,001 – 19,500 lbs (7,258–8,845 kg)
- Class 6 – 19,501 – 26,000 lbs (8,846–11,793 kg)
- Class 7 – 26,001 – 33,000 lbs (11,794–14,969 kg)
- Class 8 – 33,001 – 80,000 lbs (14,969–36,287 kg) and above
In Canada, the classification system of trucks is similar to the one in the US, with classes ranging from 1 to 8 and vehicles being categorised as light, medium or heavy duty.
If you want to opt for a vehicle that offers a perfect balance between cargo capacity and efficiency, contact SDVH today and let our 7.5t lorry hire deals elevate your hauling experience.
Brief But Deep Understanding Of Axle And Weight Connection
The relationship between axles and weight in trucks is a crucial one. The role of an axle is to rotate the wheels and support the weight that your vehicle has to carry. The main types of axles are front, rear, and stub. All lorries are produced with a specific axle capacity since proper weight distribution is essential for a safe journey.
With the 18-tonne, robust 26-tonne and almighty 44-tonne truck as part of our fleet, SDVH can offer you the right axles to carry your cargo and elevate your business journey.
Lorry Dimensions: Is There Maximum Height, Width And Length?
Various vehicle sizes are subject to varying regulations regarding their dimensions. When it comes to length, rigid vehicles should be longer than 12 metres, while artic lorries have a little more freedom and can be up to 16.5 metres long. Lorries commonly adhere to a standard maximum width of 2.55 metres.
Although the height isn’t specified in exact numbers, you should take into account that you’ll need to navigate under bridges, tunnels and other structures, so the height of your vehicle shouldn’t exceed 5 metres. It’s important to note that specific restrictions can differ slightly across different counties and regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Wide Is A Lorry?
A lorry is 2.5 metres (8.2 feet) wide on average. However, the exact width may vary based on the type of vehicle and its design. Width is an important factor to consider when selecting a lorry as it determines the internal capacity and compactness. Ensure that any vehicle you select is large enough to accommodate your cargo while remaining easily manoeuvrable.
Can Some Lorries Carry More Than 44 Tonnes Of Weight?
No, lorries can’t carry more than 44 tonnes of weight. 44-tonne is a common maximum weight limit for artic lorries on public roads in the UK and many other countries. However, there are a few specialised heavy-duty trucks used in mining and construction that can carry even heavier weights but you can’t find them on regular roads.
What Is The Largest Truck?
The BelAZ 75710 is the largest truck in the world. It’s produced in Belarus, and it’s classified as an ultra-class haul truck. This vehicle has immense size and an impressive capacity to carry up to 450 tonnes. It’s truly a jaw-dropping number. And to top it all off, this truck also has four-wheel drive and four-wheel hydraulic steering.
How Big Is A Mining Truck?
A mining truck can range from 240 to over 400 tonnes. The exact weight and capacity of these vehicles will depend on a specific model and manufacturer. The BelAZ 75710 truck is considered to be the largest truck in the world and consequently, it also has the highest payload capacity.
Are Heavy Haulers Allowed To Be Driven On Regular Roads?
No, heavy haulers can’t be driven on regular roads because of their massive weights. Most roads can’t handle such large vehicle sizes, and they can also contribute to traffic congestion since they are so big. If you drive a vehicle designed for these kinds of heavy loads, your movement will be limited to your work area.
Conclusion
Now you’re equipped with all the knowledge about lorry sizes and how to differentiate all of their types. This will help your business significantly, as you’ll be able to select the appropriate vehicle that can meet your needs and make you a leader in your industry. Just find a reliable rental company and select one with a capacity suited to your weight demands.
I appreciated the clarity in explaining the licencing requirements for driving different lorry sizes. It’s helpful to know what qualifications are necessary for operating these vehicles.
If you want to use a 7.5-tonne lorry for personal purposes, all you need is C1 entitlement. And if you happen to pass your driving tests before 1997, you automatically qualify for it.
When it comes to 18, 26 and 44-tonne lorries, you’ll need to have a valid driver’s and operator’s licence.