# vehicle classes

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> A freight forwarder moving a single pallet of machine parts will select a fundamentally different vehicle than one handling a full load of construction materials – and that distinction is precisely what vehicle classes codify.

A freight forwarder moving a single pallet of machine parts will select a fundamentally different vehicle than one handling a full load of construction materials – and that distinction is precisely what vehicle classes codify. Vehicle classes group commercial vehicles by maximum authorised weight, payload, axle configuration, and body type. EU type-approval legislation defines N1 (up to 3.5 t), N2 (up to 12 t), and N3 (above 12 t) for goods vehicles, with M-classes covering passenger-carrying vehicles. The assigned class directly governs road toll obligations, required driving licences, type-approval rules, and emission-related surcharges linked to EURO emission standards. The term refers to regulatory categories and should not be confused with vehicle segments used in passenger-car marketing or manufacturer model lines.

**Source:** [https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32018R0858](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32018R0858)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | vehicle classes |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 120 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32018R0858 |

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*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/vehicle-classes](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/vehicle-classes)*

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