Weights and dimensions in the EU: the limits country by country
Operational guide · Directive 96/53/EC and national derogations
The European reference limit
Directive 96/53/EC sets the maximum authorised masses and dimensions for international circulation within the EU. The most common reference values are:
| Parameter | EU reference limit |
|---|---|
| Maximum mass (articulated vehicle, 5+ axles) | 40 tonnes |
| Maximum mass in intermodal transport (40–45 ft container/swap body) | 44 tonnes |
| Maximum length (articulated vehicle) | 16.50 m |
| Maximum length (road train) | 18.75 m |
| Maximum width (general / refrigerated) | 2.55 m / 2.60 m |
| Maximum height | 4.00 m |
The Directive distinguishes between what is mandatory in international traffic and what each Member State authorises in its national traffic, where numerous upward derogations exist.
The real national maximum masses
The masses authorised in national circulation frequently exceed 40 t. Below are the maximum masses verified by TRALEXIA in the main European jurisdictions (for typical configurations; they may depend on the number of axles):
| Country | National maximum mass (reference) |
|---|---|
| Germany (DE) | 40 t |
| Austria (AT) | 40 t |
| Belgium (BE) | 44 t |
| Denmark (DK) | 48 t (6 axles) · 54–58 t (7+ axles) |
| Spain (ES) | 44 t |
| Finland (FI) | up to 76 t (9+ axles) |
| France (FR) | 44 t (PTRA) |
| Ireland (IE) | 40 t (5 axles) · 44 t (6 axles) |
| Italy (IT) | 40 t (4 axles) · 44 t (5+ axles) |
| Luxembourg (LU) | 44 t |
| Netherlands (NL) | 50 t |
| Portugal (PT) | 44 t |
| United Kingdom (GB) | 40 t (5 axles) · 44 t (6+ axles) |
| Sweden (SE) | up to 64 t (class BK1, 8+ axles) |
The remaining verified Member States (BG, CZ, EE, GR, HR, HU, LT, LV, PL, RO, SI, SK) keep the national limit at 40 t. Most also apply harmonised dimensions and specific derogations for intermodal transport.
Why the difference matters
An operation loaded to 44 t, perfectly legal in Spain or France, may result in overweight if the same vehicle travels through a country with a 40 t national limit without relying on the intermodal exception. Always check the authorised mass of the country of circulation and of the transit countries, not just that of the country of origin.
The values above are reference figures for operational purposes and do not constitute legal advice. The effective masses and dimensions depend on the specific vehicle configuration, the number and spacing of axles, the type of suspension and the national authorisations in force. Always verify the rules of the applicable country.
Official sources cited
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Check weights and dimensions for my operationThis guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult the official text in force.