Weights, Dimensions, Plates and Overloading
Gross and axle weights, plated limits, train weight, dimensions, vehicle categories, weighbridges, load effects and action when overloaded.
How to prepare for DVSA LGV Part 1
Apply large-vehicle thinking to every rule: know the vehicle and load, scan farther ahead, protect blind areas and stopping space, and keep legal records and CPC obligations in the correct test stage.
Core concepts
Concept 1
Every relevant axle, gross and train limit must be respected; a legal total does not excuse an overloaded axle.
Exam cue: Compare measured axle and total weights with every applicable plated and legal limit.
Concept 2
Vehicle plates and current documents identify limits that must be matched to the actual combination and load.
Exam cue: Allow for fuel, driver, equipment and load in the operational weight.
Concept 3
Overloading harms braking, steering, stability, tyres, infrastructure and legal compliance.
Exam cue: If overloaded, stop and redistribute or remove load through a safe authorised process.
Risk pitfalls and guardrails
Checking only gross weight.
Guardrail: Do not apply car-scale assumptions to an LGV; account for mass, dimensions, blind areas, load and the applicable compliance regime.
Using payload estimate instead of a reliable weight.
Guardrail: Do not apply car-scale assumptions to an LGV; account for mass, dimensions, blind areas, load and the applicable compliance regime.
Continuing because the overload is small.
Guardrail: Do not apply car-scale assumptions to an LGV; account for mass, dimensions, blind areas, load and the applicable compliance regime.
Memory anchors
Every Axle Every Total
All axle, gross and train limits must be legal at the same time.
Plate Controls
Read the correct vehicle and trailer plates before calculating capacity.
Payload Includes Everything
Account for occupants, fuel, equipment and the carried load.
Weigh When Unsure
Use a suitable weighbridge rather than guessing.
Overload Changes Control
Extra mass lengthens stopping and can damage tyres, steering and stability.
Correct Before Continue
Redistribute or remove load before resuming an overloaded journey.
Checkpoint rule
Do the check-up only after you can summarize each concept in one sentence and identify one dangerous pitfall from memory.
Knowledge Check (after reading)
Short check-up to confirm understanding of this module.
Check-up Questions
What does gross train weight limit?
A rigid lorry has a plated GVW of 18,000 kg and weighs 10,600 kg ready for work but before cargo. What theoretical payload remains?
Answer all questions to submit.
Next step personalized recommendations
Continue learning
Move forward only after this module is stable.
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