China clamps down on overloaded trucks
A Chinese government regulation aimed at stopping the widespread practice of overloading trucks will have a major impact on inland transport in the country.
The Road Safety Law issued May 1 by the People Congress of China and an accompanying implementing regulation stated that, effective June 20, “all road vehicles must load within the limitation stated in the vehicle license, otherwise severe punishment would be implemented,” an executive at P&O Nedlloyd said.
The government action against overloaded trucks has shocked China’s logistics industry, according to industry sources.
“It is anticipated the impact of enforcing the new regulation may mean some trucking companies will need to reduce their loads, therefore reducing overall available haulage and potentially pushing up prices,” P&O Nedlloyd said.