Find out how much cargo a truck can legally carry in India. Learn about truck weight limits, axle load rules, and the legal consequences of overloading under the latest MoRTH guidelines.
How Much Can a Truck Carry? Legal Weight Limits and Overloading Rules in India
In the logistics and transport industry, knowing how much a truck can legally carry is essential for safety, efficiency, and compliance. Overloading not only puts drivers and infrastructure at risk, but also invites heavy penalties under Indian law.
Let’s break down legal truck weight limits, explain overloading rules, and share how you can avoid fines and operational risks.
🚛 What Determines a Truck’s Carrying Capacity?
A truck’s legal carrying capacity in India is defined by:
- Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)
- Number of axles
- Manufacturer’s rated capacity (RC)
- MoRTH axle load guidelines
The GVW includes the truck’s weight plus fuel, passengers, and cargo.
📊 MoRTH-Prescribed Axle Load Limits
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) revised the axle load limits in 2018 to increase freight efficiency.
| Axle Configuration | Maximum Load (Kg) |
|---|---|
| Single axle, 2 tires | 6,000 |
| Single axle, 4 tires | 10,200 |
| Tandem axle (8 tires total) | 19,000 – 21,000 |
| Triple axle (12 tires) | 27,000 – 30,000 |
| Multi-axle trailer | Up to 55,000+ (variable) |
Each truck model is rated by the manufacturer, and you must follow the registered load limit on the RC.
⚖️ Legal Rules for Overloading in India
Under the Motor Vehicles Act (amended in 2019):
- Overloading a truck is strictly prohibited
- Penalty: ₹20,000 + ₹2,000 per extra ton
- Authorities may detain the vehicle
- Repeated violations can result in license suspension
Transporters must also offload extra weight on the spot before being allowed to move.
💥 Why Overloading Is Risky
Even beyond fines, overloading leads to:
- Brake failure and mechanical damage
- Longer stopping distances, causing accidents
- Increased fuel consumption
- Damage to public roads and highways
- Voided insurance claims in case of an incident
✅ How to Stay Within Legal Weight Limits
- Know your truck’s rated GVW and axle load
- Use weighbridges before dispatch
- Train loaders and drivers on distribution
- Install onboard load monitoring systems
- Use fleet software to track compliance
🛣️ Government Monitoring Measures
State transport authorities now use:
- Automated weigh stations
- VAHAN and e-Challan systems
- AI-powered enforcement tools
- Random roadside inspections
Non-compliant fleets are flagged, and repeat offenders may face blacklisting.
🧾 Conclusion
Understanding how much a truck can legally carry in India is crucial for compliance, safety, and cost control. Stick to MoRTH guidelines and ensure your fleet operates within legal limits. Not only will this reduce fines and downtime, but it will also build your company’s reputation as a reliable and responsible transporter.
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