What are the penalties for trucks exceeding height limits?
2 Answers
When the height measured from the ground is between 4 meters and 4.3 meters (inclusive), a fine ranging from 500 to 3,000 RMB will be imposed. When the height measured from the ground is between 4.3 meters and 4.5 meters (inclusive), a fine ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 RMB will be imposed. For heights exceeding 4.5 meters from the ground, penalties may be imposed according to the upper limits stipulated by laws and regulations. Below is a detailed introduction regarding trucks exceeding height limits: 1. Relevant regulations: Article 48 of the 'Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China' stipulates that motor vehicle loads must comply with the approved load capacity, and overloading is strictly prohibited; the length, width, and height of the load must not violate loading requirements, and the transported goods must not be spilled or scattered. 2. Others: For heavy and medium-duty trucks and semi-trailers, the height of the load from the ground must not exceed 4 meters, and for vehicles transporting containers, the height must not exceed 4.2 meters. For other motor vehicles carrying goods, the height from the ground must not exceed 2.5 meters.
I'm a seasoned truck driver, and once I got caught for over-height cargo, resulting in a 500-yuan fine and penalty points. It happened at a highway entrance where the load was stacked too high, nearly scraping an overpass. The penalty is usually calculated per 5 cm over the limit, with fines ranging from 100 to 200 yuan, and serious violations may incur 3 demerit points. The police will also require on-site unloading of the excess cargo before allowing you to proceed, which not only wastes time but also adds extra costs. Since then, I always measure the height carefully, ensuring the load doesn't exceed the legal limit of 4 meters, and double-check that the pallets are secured. Safety-wise, over-height cargo is a major accident risk, especially when passing through tunnels or bridges—any mishap could lead to severe consequences, damaging vehicles or injuring people. I recommend truck drivers carry a tape measure, plan routes to avoid low-clearance areas, and save themselves the hassle and extra expenses.
