Tractor trucks, also known as semi-trucks or container trucks, are the lifeblood of long-distance freight transport in Vietnam. Beyond factors like horsepower and durability, truck payload capacity is a paramount parameter that transport businesses and drivers must understand. Comprehending and adhering to payload regulations not only ensures traffic safety and avoids penalties but also optimizes economic efficiency in transportation. This article from Xe Tải Mỹ Đình will provide the most detailed and comprehensive information on truck payload capacity in Vietnam today.
Basic Structure and Classification of Tractor Trucks
To understand payload, it’s crucial first to grasp the structure and classification of tractor trucks. A basic tractor truck comprises two main parts:
- Tractor Head (Cabin): This section houses the engine, control systems, and driver’s cabin. The tractor head is designed to connect to and drive a trailer or semi-trailer.
- Trailer or Semi-Trailer: This is the cargo-carrying section, attached to the tractor head via a coupling system. Trailers and semi-trailers come in various types, depending on the intended use and type of cargo (e.g., container carriers, bulk cargo carriers, fuel tankers, etc.).
Basic two-part structure of a tractor truck: tractor head and trailer
Tractor trucks are classified based on various criteria, including:
- Number of Axles: Tractor trucks can have 2, 3, or 4 axles, directly impacting load-bearing capacity and weight distribution.
- Engine Power: A powerful engine helps the truck operate stably and efficiently when carrying heavy loads.
- Cabin Type: Cabins can be standard, high-roof, sleeper cabins, etc., depending on usage needs and travel distance.
What is Truck Payload Capacity?
Truck payload capacity is the maximum weight of cargo a truck is permitted to carry when operating on public roads. This is a crucial technical specification, regulated by authorities and clearly stated in the vehicle registration certificate. Exceeding the permissible payload is not only a legal violation but also leads to severe safety and economic consequences.
How to Calculate Payload Capacity:
The payload capacity of a tractor truck is determined using a simple formula:
Payload Capacity = Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) – Curb Weight (CW)
Where:
- Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): This is the maximum total weight of the vehicle when loaded with cargo, as designed by the manufacturer and approved by the vehicle registration authority. It’s a fixed value recorded in the registration certificate.
- Curb Weight (CW): This is the weight of the vehicle itself when unloaded, including both the tractor head and the trailer/semi-trailer. Curb weight can vary depending on configuration, construction materials, and included equipment.
Thus, it’s evident that truck payload capacity directly depends on the vehicle’s curb weight. A heavier curb weight results in a lower payload capacity, and vice versa, assuming the Gross Vehicle Weight remains constant.
Factors Affecting Payload Capacity
Several factors influence the curb weight of a tractor truck, consequently affecting the truck payload capacity. Specifically:
- Number of Axles: Trucks with more axles generally have a higher curb weight. For example, a 3-axle tractor truck will be heavier than a 2-axle one.
- Cabin Type: Larger cabins with more amenities increase the vehicle’s curb weight. A standard cabin will be lighter than a high-roof or sleeper cabin.
- Construction Materials: The materials used to manufacture vehicle components like the chassis, fuel tank, drivetrain, etc., also impact curb weight. Using lightweight materials like aluminum alloys can reduce curb weight but increase production costs.
- Equipment and Accessories: Additional equipment and accessories, such as auxiliary fuel tanks, high-capacity air conditioning systems, lifting equipment, etc., also add to the vehicle’s curb weight.
Tractor truck curb weight is affected by the number of axles, cabin type, and materials
Regulations on Truck Payload Capacity in Vietnam
Vietnamese law has strict regulations regarding vehicle weight limits, including tractor trucks, to protect traffic infrastructure, ensure safety, and minimize accidents. Key regulations related to truck payload capacity include:
- Circular 46/2015/TT-BGTVT: Regulations on axle load limits, total vehicle weight limits, and road clearance dimensions. This circular specifies payload limits for different vehicle types and road categories.
- Law on Road Traffic: Regulations on compliance with weight limits, clearance dimensions, and the responsibilities of vehicle operators and owners.
- Decree 100/2019/NĐ-CP (amended by Decree 123/2021/NĐ-CP): Regulations on administrative penalties for traffic violations on roads and railways, including specific fines for overloading.
Common Payload Range for Tractor Trucks:
Typically, the truck payload capacity in Vietnam ranges above 14 tons. However, this figure can vary depending on the specific truck model and its configuration. The table below provides reference information on the payload capacity of some popular tractor truck models in the Vietnamese market:
| Product | Curb Weight (Tons) | Payload (Tons) | Gross Vehicle Weight (Tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAC A5 480 Rear Axle, 12R22.5 Tires | 8.8 | 15.2 | 24 |
| JAC A5 480 Rear Axle, 12.00R20 Tires | 9.2 | 14.8 | 24 |
| JAC Q7 420 Rear Axle | 9 | 15 | 24 |
| JAC Q7 385 Rear Axle | 8.3 | 15.7 | 24 |
| HOWO TH7 SE 460 Rear Axle | 8.7 | 15.3 | 24 |
| HOWO NX 440 Rear Axle | 8.6 | 15.4 | 24 |
| HOWO T7H 440 Rear Axle | 9 | 15 | 24 |
| HOWO T7H 440 Oil Axle | 9.8 | 14.2 | 24 |
| HOWO G7 440 Rear Axle | 8.9 | 15.1 | 24 |
| HOWO G7 540 Rear Axle | 8.7 | 15.3 | 24 |
| HOWO G7 540 Oil Axle | 10.1 | 13.9 | 24 |
| HOWO A7 380 Oil Axle | 9.3 | 14.3 | 24 |
| HOWO A7 420 Oil Axle | 9.8 | 14.2 | 24 |
| HOWO V7X 440 Oil Axle | 10.6 | 13.4 | 24 |
| HOWO V7X 440 Rear Axle | 9.4 | 14.6 | 24 |
Note: The table above is for reference only. The specific truck payload capacity for each vehicle is stated in the registration certificate and may vary depending on configuration and version.
Consequences of Overloading and How to Avoid Violations
Overloading beyond the truck payload capacity has serious consequences:
- Increased Risk of Traffic Accidents: Overloaded trucks become unstable, difficult to control, have longer braking distances, and are prone to accidents, especially on slopes or when cornering.
- Vehicle Damage: Overloading puts excessive stress on the suspension, tires, brakes, engine, and chassis, reducing vehicle lifespan and increasing repair and maintenance costs.
- Damage to Traffic Infrastructure: Overloaded trucks damage roads and bridges, shortening the lifespan of infrastructure and incurring costly maintenance.
- Heavy Penalties: Authorities regularly inspect and strictly penalize overloaded vehicles. Fines can be substantial, including monetary penalties and driver’s license suspension.
To avoid violating truck payload capacity regulations, take these measures:
- Know the Payload Capacity: Always check the vehicle registration certificate to know the exact payload capacity of your truck.
- Control Cargo Weight: Weigh cargo before loading to ensure it doesn’t exceed the permissible payload.
- Distribute Load Properly: Load cargo evenly across the truck bed, avoiding excessive concentration in one area that could cause localized overloading.
- Regular Vehicle Inspections: Perform regular vehicle maintenance, paying particular attention to the suspension, tires, and brakes to ensure the truck is always in optimal operating condition.
Speed and Other Important Technical Specifications of Tractor Trucks
Besides truck payload capacity, other technical specifications also warrant attention:
- Maximum Speed: Tractor trucks can reach a designed speed of 90 – 110 km/h. However, actual operating speed is often limited by traffic regulations and road conditions.
Tractor truck speed must comply with road traffic laws
- Speed Limits according to Law:
- In Residential Areas: Maximum 60 km/h on dual carriageways or one-way roads with two or more lanes for motorized vehicles; maximum 50 km/h on two-way roads or one-way roads with one lane for motorized vehicles.
- Outside Residential Areas: Maximum 70 km/h on dual carriageways or one-way roads with two or more lanes for motorized vehicles; maximum 60 km/h on two-way roads or one-way roads with one lane for motorized vehicles.
- Engine Oil Change Volume: The periodic engine oil change volume depends on the engine type and manufacturer’s recommendations, typically ranging from 15 to 30 liters. Oil change intervals are usually between 15,000 – 30,000 km.
- Tractor Truck Length: Tractor head length is typically 6 – 7 meters. When combined with a semi-trailer, the total length must not exceed 20 meters according to QCVN 11:2015/BGTVT standards.
Conclusion
Truck payload capacity is a vital factor for freight transport operations. Understanding regulations, calculation methods, and factors influencing payload helps businesses and drivers operate trucks safely, efficiently, and in compliance with the law. Xe Tải Mỹ Đình hopes this article has provided useful information, helping readers gain a comprehensive understanding of tractor trucks and truck payload capacity.
