Dimensions and weights
Legal dimensions and weights of a truck
Within these dimensions and weights you drive without an exemption. They are laid down in chapter 5 of the Dutch Vehicle Regulations; the RDW lists the most important ones. Above them, abnormal transport begins.
The main maximums
| Dimension | Legal maximum |
|---|---|
| Height | 4.00 m |
| Width | 2.55 m (conditioned transport 2.60 m) |
| Length of a truck (motor vehicle) | 12.00 m |
| Length of tractor and semi-trailer | 16.50 m |
| Length of truck and trailer | 18.75 m |
| Mass of truck or combination | 50,000 kg |
| Single axle / driven axle | 10,000 kg / 11,500 kg |
| Indivisible load: tractor and semi-trailer | 22.00 m long, 3.00 m wide (due to the load) |
Source: RDW, overview of dimensions and weights in the Netherlands, version 2025-01. Only the published Vehicle Regulations are legally binding.
What Truckroute does with them
By default Truckroute calculates with a truck of 4.00 m high. Enter the real dimensions and weight and the route avoids every sign and road section that is too tight. If you exceed the legal dimensions with an indivisible load, choose abnormal load: Truckroute then plans over the roads where the RDW can grant an exemption.
Frequently asked questions
May a refrigerated truck be wider?
Yes: for conditioned transport the legal width is 2.60 m instead of 2.55 m.
Read also
- Exemption for abnormal loads: annual or one-off: Annual exemption up to 27.50 m, 3.50 m, 4.25 m and 100,000 kg on the green roads, or a one-off exemption per route. How to choose, and how to plan the route.
- A route that fits height, weight and length: Truckroute avoids every sign and road section that is too tight for your truck, plus closures and roadworks, and explains with the route why it takes a detour.
Sources: RDW: overview of dimensions and weights in the Netherlands (version 2025-01).
All topics
Route and restrictions
Charges and tolls
LHV
Abnormal loads
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