What is the classification standard for trucks from Type 1 to Type 6?
2 Answers
Trucks are classified from Type 1 to Type 6 based on the following standards: Type 1 trucks are two-axle trucks with a vehicle length of less than 6 meters and a total mass of less than 4.5 tons; Type 2 trucks have a vehicle length of 6 meters or more or a total mass of 4.5 tons or more. Trucks with three to six axles are classified as Type 3, Type 4, Type 5, and Type 6 trucks, respectively. Type 1 trucks are cargo trucks: Cargo trucks with a vehicle length of 3,500 mm or less and a total mass of 1,800 kg or less, excluding three-wheeled vehicles and low-speed trucks. Type 2 trucks are medium-duty trucks: Cargo trucks with a vehicle length of 6,000 mm or more or a total mass of 4,500 kg or more but less than 12,000 kg, excluding low-speed trucks. Type 3 trucks are heavy-duty trucks: Cargo trucks with a total mass of 12,000 kg or more. Heavy-duty trucks refer to large-tonnage, high-end cargo trucks.
Over the years of driving in China, I've noticed that truck classification is based on gross vehicle weight, which is a very practical system. Category 1 trucks are the lightest, with a weight not exceeding 4.5 tons, such as mini trucks and light-duty trucks. They are suitable for urban short-distance deliveries, being easy to maneuver, fuel-efficient, and convenient for parking, and only require a Class C driver's license. Category 2 includes light trucks, weighing between 4.5 to 7.5 tons, ideal for suburban areas, perfect for transporting vegetables and fruits. Category 3 medium-duty trucks range from 7.5 to 12 tons, commonly seen on highways, efficient for transporting construction materials. Category 4 heavy-duty trucks are 12 to 16 tons, Category 5 from 16 to 24 tons, and Category 6 exceeds 24 tons. These are all large trucks used for long-distance hauling with high cargo capacity, but they require at least a Class B driver's license, have higher toll fees, and are affected by restricted zones. Remember, choose a truck that matches your cargo to avoid fines and stress from overloading.
