Compliance
Load Once, Load Legal, and Go!™

Everything you need to know about DVSA enforcement, weight limits, and compliance requirements
26-30%
HGVs Overloaded
£5,000
Max Fine per Axle
40%
of Overloaded HGVs Immobilised
Chris Sampson DVSA Image

UK Weight Limits & Penalties

Maximum Weight Limits by Vehicle Type

Legal weight limits for different vehicle configurations in the UK

Vehicle Category Maximum Gross Weight Maximum Axle Weight
Rigid Lorry (2 axles) 18,000 kg 10,000 kg (rear)
Rigid Lorry (3 axles) 26,000 kg 10,000 kg (rear)
Articulated (5 axles) 40,000 kg 10,000 kg (drive)
Articulated (6 axles) 44,000 kg 10,000 kg (per axle)

Penalty Structure & Consequences

Fixed Penalty Structure

0-5% overweight £100 fixed penalty
5-10% overweight £200 fixed penalty
10-15% overweight £300 fixed penalty
15%+ overweight Court summons up to £5,000 per offence


Additional Consequences

OCRS Impact Score reduced; O-licence reputation affected
Vehicle Prohibition Immediate roadside prohibition until weight reduced
Court Prosecution Operator and driver can face separate charges
Licence Risk Repeat offences may trigger licence review or revocation

Ready to Protect Your Fleet?

Get a tailored solution for your vehicle type and industry requirements

Copyright ©Air-Weigh 2026