Limited Triple Axle Load
The maximum permitted triple axle load is indicated on the sign.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should immediately determine whether your vehicle's triple-axle load is below the indicated value. If your triple-axle load exceeds the limit you must not continue; you must choose another route, reduce or redistribute the load.
Rules & Regulations
- Prohibition for vehicles or vehicle combinations whose triple-axle load exceeds the value indicated on the sign (value given in tonnes, t).
- The value refers to the entire axle group of three axles (triple axle), not to each individual axle or wheel. The sign restricts the load on the axle group.
- The driver is responsible for knowing the vehicle's triple-axle load (found in the registration certificate or technical specifications) and must not pass if the limit is exceeded.
- The prohibition on the sign applies regardless of the vehicle's total weight and may be enforced by police or road authorities; violations can lead to fines, orders to turn back, or liability for damage to roads or bridges.
Tips for Drivers
- Check the registration certificate or the vehicle's weight certificate before planning a route that passes signed sections.
- If the load causes the triple-axle load to exceed the limit, try to redistribute the load, unload, or choose an alternative route in good time.
- Bear in mind that trailers and bogies can also form triple-axle groups — check the axle groups of the entire combination, not just the towing vehicle.
- Spot the sign in good time and plan immediately; there may be no safe exits or turning opportunities for heavy vehicles beyond the sign.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the figure refers to each individual axle or wheel instead of the entire triple-axle group.
- Only checking the total weight and ignoring the distribution across axle groups.
- Assuming the sign only applies to large trucks and not checking whether trailers or bogies are included.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Limited Triple Axle Load
What does this road sign indicate?
- A Limit of permitted pressure/load for three consecutive axles (triple axle).
- B Limit of tire pressure for vehicles.
- C Total weight limit for the entire vehicle.
- D Speed limit for vehicles with three axles.
Exam Tip
In the theory test they may ask what the number on C46 refers to — remember that it is the maximum permitted load for the entire triple-axle group (in tonnes), not per axle.
Did You Know?
Signs limiting triple-axle load are mainly used on older bridges and weak road sections to protect the structure and complement the more common signs for single- and twin-axle loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign apply to all vehicles?
The sign only applies if the vehicle or combination has a relevant triple-axle group. If you do not have three axles in such a group the sign's value does not affect your vehicle, but always check trailers and bogies.
Where can I find information about my vehicle's triple-axle load?
This information is normally found in the registration certificate or the vehicle manufacturer's technical specifications. If in doubt, you can weigh the vehicle at a weighing service to obtain the current load on the axle group.
What happens if I drive past the sign even though I exceed the limit?
You may be fined and ordered to turn back or re-load, and you may be liable for damages if the road or bridge is damaged. Authorities may also stop and weigh the combination for inspection.
How is the value shown on the sign?
The value is given in tonnes and is often written with 't' after the number (e.g. '18 t'), which refers to the maximum permitted triple-axle load for that location. The sign is a prohibition sign and must be obeyed regardless of other weight indications.
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