Separate the order’s different application dates
Order PJC/780/2025 of 21 July amended the General Vehicle Regulations and was published on 23 July 2025. Most provisions entered into force the following day. The changes to maximum axle masses and authorised masses took effect on 23 October 2025, or 23 January 2026 for tanker vehicles, according to their classification by use.
Those dates have passed at this review. Establish the vehicle category and applicable provision rather than treating every aspect of the reform as having the same commencement date.
An articulated vehicle is not the same as a road train
Read Table 2 and its notes in the current Annex IX of the General Vehicle Regulations. For the listed five-or-more-axle configurations, an articulated vehicle with a motor vehicle of two or more axles and a semitrailer of three or more axles has a 44-tonne value.
The table separately gives 42 tonnes for a road train with a two-axle motor vehicle and a three-axle trailer. The terms trailer and semitrailer must remain distinct. Read the relevant footnotes and other applicable limits with each value.
Check the vehicle’s technical evidence
The DGT clarification document addresses technical inspection cards, technically admissible masses and the procedures for changes. An increased statutory limit does not demonstrate that a particular vehicle can use it.
Review the vehicle and combination documentation, axle limits and actual load distribution. Resolve discrepancies with the responsible technical parties before relying on a new mass value. Do not infer additional tonnes solely from the fuel type or a headline about the reform.
Euro-modular combinations and dangerous goods
DGT’s euro-modular guidance sets out maximum combination values of 72 tonnes and 32 metres, together with technical, route and circulation conditions. These values are not a universal operating entitlement.
Order PJC/780/2025 prohibits euro-modular carriage of dangerous goods whose transport requires the regulatory ADR hazard panels. The wording concerns that defined scope; other applicable ADR conditions must also be respected. Check the load and proposed configuration together.
Review the vehicle, load and journey together
Gather the technical cards, configuration, classification by use, actual masses and intended route. Check road signs and temporary restrictions as well as the relevant vehicle limits. A mass calculation alone does not settle dangerous goods compliance or road access.
DGSA advisory services can support the dangerous goods interface. Contact DGSA with the vehicle combination and consignment details.