How to Identify if a Vehicle is for Commercial Use
3 Answers
For commercial vehicles, the usage type indicated on both the vehicle's license and registration certificate will be marked as 'commercial use', while non-commercial vehicles will be labeled as 'non-commercial use'. Commercial vehicles refer to those that have been approved by the competent authorities by the end of the reporting period and are eligible for commercial operation. This includes vehicles that are technically sound, under repair, awaiting repair, or have been out of service for an extended period.
To determine if a vehicle is for commercial use, I usually start by glancing at the license plate color. In most Chinese cities, yellow plates indicate commercial vehicles, such as taxis and buses, while green plates are typically for private or non-commercial use. If the plate isn't clear, I check for special equipment inside the vehicle—taxis usually have meters or vacancy lights, and trucks often display logistics company logos. However, this isn't foolproof, as used cars might have been modified. I recommend checking the vehicle registration certificate or license, which states whether it's 'commercial' or 'non-commercial.' If still unsure, it's best to use a mobile app to enter the plate number for verification or check the vehicle information on the DMV website for accuracy. After all, commercial vehicles have higher insurance and tax costs, and misjudging could mean paying more. Remember, pay attention to details when inspecting a vehicle—don't cut corners, as road safety comes first.
To determine if a vehicle is for commercial operation, the most reliable approach is to examine its documentation. Ask the owner for the vehicle license and check the 'Usage Nature' section, which will clearly state 'Commercial' or 'Non-commercial.' If the license is unavailable, the vehicle inspection sticker on the windshield may sometimes provide a clue. Alternatively, use the Traffic Management 12123 app to enter the license plate number for an instant query—if it shows a commercial status, that confirms it. Externally, commercial vehicles often display company logos, advertising decals, or uniform body colors. However, don’t rely solely on these signs, as some private cars also have decorative stickers. The key is understanding that commercial vehicles undergo more frequent maintenance and have different insurance policies. Accidentally purchasing a used commercial vehicle disguised as a private one could double your repair costs later. Regularly checking vehicle records is advised to protect your investment.
