What is the Scrapping Period for Trucks?
3 Answers
The scrapping period for trucks is categorized as follows: Heavy-duty trucks have a scrapping period of 10 years, which can be extended up to a maximum of 5 years. Mini trucks and taxis with fewer than 19 seats have a scrapping period of 8 years. Trucks with trailers and mining operation vehicles have a scrapping period of 8 years, which can be extended up to a maximum of 4 years. Full trailers have a scrapping period of 10 years, extendable up to a maximum of 5 years. Semi-trailers have a scrapping period of 10 years, extendable up to a maximum of 5 years. Semi-trailer tractors have a scrapping period of 10 years, extendable up to a maximum of 5 years. Low-speed cargo vehicles have a scrapping period of 9 years, extendable up to a maximum of 3 years.
I've been driving trucks for transport for almost twenty years. The general scrapping age for trucks is 15 years, which applies to medium and above-sized trucks. I remember when I first started, old vehicles could be used much longer, but now regulations have become stricter mainly for safety reasons. In road accidents, overloaded old trucks have a higher risk of brake failure, and mandatory scrapping reduces these hazards. I maintain my truck diligently, changing the oil and checking the brake system every year, which can slightly extend its lifespan but it's hard to break the upper limit. On the road, I often see fellow drivers running their vehicles beyond the mileage limit with black smoke, which makes them more likely to be fined or scrapped early. Safety comes first, and I don't want to cause an accident just to save a little money. Additionally, there's now a greater emphasis on environmental protection, as old vehicles emit higher pollution into the air, and scrapping them promotes the switch to cleaner new vehicles. Understanding this regulation helps me avoid trouble when registering my vehicle.
Having worked in a repair shop for over a decade, it's common to see trucks coming in for maintenance with a 15-year scrappage policy. However, in practice, many vehicles break down due to aging before reaching that limit, such as from short circuits or engine noises. Customers often ask why scrapping is mandatory, and I explain it's based on the policy stated in the vehicle registration. The key is regular replacement of air filters and engine oil to prevent carbon buildup and part wear, which can extend the vehicle's life by a year or two. From a safety perspective, old vehicles with deformed frames or worn brake pads are prone to accidents. When assessing, I advise not waiting until the 15-year mark but to check earlier if repairs are worth it, as repair costs can sometimes exceed the price of a new vehicle. While good maintenance can prolong life, regulations are strict, and safety shouldn't be compromised—otherwise, the loss outweighs the gain. Sharing experiences can help owners make better decisions.
