Is it illegal to remove seats from a van for cargo transportation?
1 Answers
Removing seats from a van is illegal, and it is even more prohibited to use the van for cargo transportation after seat removal. Doing so may result in a 3-point penalty and a fine. A van is generally referred to as a vehicle without protruding engine or luggage compartments at the front or rear, resembling a loaf of bread. According to the 'Classification of Motor Vehicle Structure Terminology,' a van is defined as a vehicle with a flat or short-nose body structure, a single-layer floor, a mid-engine layout, a height-to-width ratio of ≤0.90, seating capacity of ≤9 people, and equipped with seats for passenger transport. Vans can be classified in various ways, typically by function and seating capacity. Vans are affordable, come in many types, and are economically practical, making them widely applicable in many industries. In modern society, as an important member of the automotive family, vans are sure to be promoted and popularized across society. Privately removing seats from a motor vehicle violates Article 16, Clause 1 of the 'Road Traffic Safety Law,' which states 'Motor vehicles shall not be assembled or altered in structure, construction, or characteristics without authorization.' This can be dealt with according to Article 48 of the 'Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations,' where the traffic management department of the public security authorities may order the restoration of the original condition and impose a warning or fine. Additionally, if the road management department finds that the vehicle is transporting goods without a transportation qualification certificate, the penalties are generally more severe. It is strongly advised not to remove the rear seats.