How to Avoid Overloading and Fines in 2025

In logistics, vehicle load capacity is more than just a technical specification; it’s a key factor in safety, efficiency, and legal compliance. Overloading can lead to accidents, road damage, and significant fines. In this article, we’ll discuss how to avoid overloading a vehicle, why it’s important to indicate the actual gross weight rather than the net weight, the rules for the new consignment note form, and the consequences of violations.

If you want to minimize transportation risks, Alina LLC offers professional services with full weight and documentation control!

What is load capacity and why is it important?

Load capacity is the maximum load weight a vehicle can safely carry without damaging its structure, roads, or safety. In Ukraine, standards are regulated by the Road Traffic Regulations (RTR) and depend on the number of axles:

Up to 11 tons per single axle.
Up to 11.5 tons for the rear axle of a tractor.

Up to 16 tons for two-axle vehicles.
Up to 22 tons for three-axle vehicles or more.

Overloading increases braking distances, accelerates tire and suspension wear, and damages infrastructure.

How to avoid overloading a vehicle?

Overloading is a common problem when the weight is distributed unevenly.

To avoid this:

Check the technical specifications: Study the vehicle registration document for the permitted maximum weight.
Distribute the load evenly, with heavy items closer to the center.
Consider the axle type: For single axles, no more than 11 tons; for dual axles, up to 18 tons; for triple axles, up to 24 tons.
Monitor after loading: using axle load pressure sensors or a monitoring app. By 2025, automatic weighing systems will be available that record violations in real time.
Indicate the actual cargo weight (gross), including packaging and pallet count.
Monitoring and monitoring this is the responsibility of the driver-transporter, but it also depends on the customer and loaders. Compliance with these rules not only prevents fines but also extends the life of the vehicle and eliminates cases of overloading or vehicle cancellation.

Why is it important to provide actual gross weight, not net weight?

Overload control: Customs and Ukrtransbezpeka check the gross weight to ensure compliance. Net weight does not reflect the actual load on vehicles and roads.
Safety and liability: False net weight can lead to overloading, accidents, and insurance claims.
Documentation: In the new TTN form, gross weight is calculated as the unladen weight of the vehicle + the weight of the cargo with packaging, which helps avoid errors.

In 2025, fines for overloading by axle or total weight will be:

Excess of 2-5% — from UAH 1,700.

5-10% — UAH 8,500.

10-20% — UAH 17,000

20-30% — UAH 34,000

More than 30% — UAH 51,000

Risk Minimization Tips

Weigh the cargo before loading and record the gross weight on the consignment note.
Require loaders to properly distribute the load across the axles.
Monitor weight monitoring systems.
Collaborate with professional logistics specialists to avoid overloading.
Alina LLC guarantees compliance with all regulations: we verify load capacity, issue consignment notes using the new form, and use axle monitoring sensors.

Maintaining load capacity saves resources and ensures safety. Trust us with this: +380730712441!