How many tons can a 4-axle truck carry?
3 Answers
A 4-axle truck can carry a maximum of 36 tons of cargo. Below is relevant information about 4-axle trucks: 1. Introduction: According to Article 3 of the "Regulations on the Management of Over-Limit Transport Vehicles on Highways," an over-limit transport vehicle refers to a cargo transport vehicle that meets any of the following conditions: (1) The total height of the vehicle and cargo exceeds 4 meters from the ground. (2) The total width of the vehicle and cargo exceeds 2.55 meters. (3) The total length of the vehicle and cargo exceeds 18.1 meters. (4) For a 4-axle truck, the total mass of the vehicle and cargo exceeds 31,000 kilograms; for a 4-axle articulated vehicle, the total mass of the vehicle and cargo exceeds 36,000 kilograms. 2. Precautions: Large transport vehicles that have been approved for operation must temporarily stop on the highway. In addition to complying with relevant road traffic safety regulations, they must also set up warning signs around the vehicle and take corresponding safety precautions. If a prolonged stop is required or in case of severe weather, the vehicle should leave the highway and park in a nearby safe area.
I've been driving a 4x8 truck for over a decade. The loading capacity is flexible but depends on vehicle condition and road situation. For regular freight trucks, around 12 tons is generally safe. Earthwork transportation can push to 15 tons, but watch for overload fines as expressways limit to 25 tons. Reduce load when tires show severe wear - on rainy muddy roads, maximum 10 tons to avoid skidding. I often haul construction materials, but overloaded engines struggle, consume more fuel and become dangerous. Better not exceed 20 tons.
As a fleet owner, I always emphasize the combination of efficiency and safety in managing transportation vehicles. The rated load capacity of the 4x2 and 8x4 truck models is designed at 10-15 tons based on axle load, with legal restrictions capping the total weight at 25 tons. In practice, we control the load within 12 tons to save fuel and reduce maintenance costs. Overloading may seem profitable for a single trip, but it actually decreases profits and damages the chassis. For frequent cargo like sand and gravel, regular suspension inspections are necessary to prevent deformation. Safety comes first to ensure long-term business sustainability.
