Dear Customer,
For articulated vehicles, a maximum length of 16.50 m is permissible if the advance of the fifth wheel axle, measured horizontally in relation to the rear of the semi-trailer, is ≤ 12.00 m and in relation to any point on the front of the semi-trailer is ≤ 2.04 m (see art. 216, c. 1, of the Italian road traffic regulations).
If both these conditions are not met, the maximum length is 15.50 m.
After the amendment of art. 61 of the Italian road traffic regulations by law no. 156 of 9.11.2021, converting DL 10.9.2021 no. 121, the transport on an articulated vehicle with a length of 16.50 m of an object projecting to the rear within the new category limit (18.75 m) is possible provided that
- there is certified suitability of the trailer, or of the loading unit loaded onto it, for intermodal road-rail and road-sea transport;
- the aforementioned limits set out in Art. 216, c. 1, Reg. of the Italian road traffic regulations are complied with;
- the conditions of Turning Circle in curves of the articulated vehicle, including its load, set out in art. 217 of the of the Italian road traffic regulations are respected.
If all the aforementioned conditions are met, the category size limit in length of the articulated vehicle is 18.75 m, so if, as a result of the indivisible load transported (e.g. a container or swap body), there is rear overhang within 3/10 of the length of the vehicle, the vehicle can circulate without authorisation pursuant to art. 10 of the Italian road traffic regulations (provided the length of 18.75 m is not exceeded).
In the absence of ministerial indications; it can be assumed that the certified suitability of semi-trailers, or of the load units loaded onto them, for intermodal road-rail and road-sea transport, in the case of vehicles not registered in Italy, must be proven by the vehicle registration document or by documentation issued by the offices responsible for certifying such suitability. It would be advisable to have this declaration on board with an Italian translation.
WITHOUT LIABILITY