The Difference Between 4.2-meter Blue License Plates and Yellow License Plates

[CamillaDella]

Blue license plates allow entry into urban areas, whereas yellow license plate vehicles are prohibited from entering urban areas at all times. The following provides an introduction to yellow and blue license plate vehicles: Introduction to Yellow License Plate Vehicles: Yellow license plate vehicles are generally found around urban areas, specifically in suburban regions. These vehicles have a relatively large transportation range and can carry more goods. Introduction to Blue License Plate Vehicles: Blue license plate vehicles can move freely within urban areas. Examples include moving companies, logistics companies, and delivery vehicles for large supermarkets, which typically use blue license plate models. These vehicles are designed to carry goods while also being permitted to operate in urban areas, which is why there are many such blue license plate vehicles.

[MacVera]

When I used to drive a 4.2-meter truck, I realized there’s quite a difference between blue and yellow license plates. Blue-plate vehicles have a total weight limit of 4.5 tons—models like the Jinbei mini-trucks, which are around 4.2 meters long, mostly fall under this category. A C1 driver’s license is sufficient to operate them, and they enjoy more freedom in urban areas, often exempt from many traffic restrictions. Yellow-plate vehicles, however, are different—they exceed 4.5 tons in weight. While they’re suitable for long-distance highway trips, they require at least a B2 license and face more traffic restrictions, with frequent document checks in big cities. Driving a blue-plate truck for deliveries is much more flexible, whereas yellow-plate trucks involve piles of paperwork and permits, slowing down work. Though their lengths are similar, blue-plate trucks are better suited for urban distribution—easier jobs and cheaper insurance.

[CharlesMarie]

From a safety perspective, the difference between 4.2-meter blue license plate vehicles and yellow license plate vehicles is quite significant. Blue plate vehicles are generally lighter, have a lower center of gravity, and respond quickly when turning or changing lanes in the city, making them easier for beginners to handle. Yellow plate vehicles are much heavier, have longer braking distances, and are stable on highways but prone to losing control on downhill slopes. I've also seen data showing that blue plate vehicles are simpler to maintain and repair, with more compact designs and fewer malfunctions. Yellow plate vehicles have larger wheels and more complex structures, leading to higher accident rates, especially at night when headlight brightness directly affects visibility and safety. Ultimately, drivers should choose vehicles based on their capabilities and avoid opting for yellow plates just to carry more cargo at the risk of safety. Always check tire pressure and lights during inspections to ensure a stable ride.

[Vernon]

If you're counting every penny, the cost difference between blue and yellow license plates is huge. The initial price of a 4.2-meter blue plate vehicle is low, easy to find in the second-hand market, with fuel consumption controlled at a few cents per kilometer, and insurance costs at most one or two thousand a year. Yellow plate vehicles are expensive to buy, with insurance as high as three to five thousand, plus operational fees. For regular maintenance, blue plate vehicles have cheap minor repairs and parts are everywhere. Yellow plates consume more fuel, tires wear out faster, and while they earn more on long hauls, daily expenses add up. I'd recommend individual buyers go for blue plates, while businesses hauling heavy loads might consider yellow plates. Don't forget, when fuel prices fluctuate, yellow plate expenses can be even scarier—choosing a vehicle requires long-term budgeting.