Let's take a moment to discuss HVRAS: what it is, why you might need one, and how to determine if you require one. These are common questions we receive every day, so let's clarify and explain HVRAS in detail.
HVRAS stands for Heavy Vehicle Registration Assessment Scheme. This assessment is mandated by TMR (Transport and Main Roads) to inspect, measure, and record specific information from vehicles for the purpose of registration. There are three key objectives of a HVRAS. But what do they entail, and what specific aspects are we examining?
Inspection:
During the inspection phase, we review the following:
- Vehicle type
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Manufacturer's plate
- Tire sizes
- GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass), GCM (Gross Combination Mass), and ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass)
- Axles
- Seating capacity
- Odometer reading
- Modification plates
Measurements:
We also take precise measurements of:
- Overall length
- Width
- Height
- Overhang
- Spacing
- Kingpin to axle distance
Recording:
All information is carefully documented by hand on TMR inspection sheets. It is essential that this data is accurate and free from errors.
Now that we’ve established what an HVRAS entails, let’s identify which vehicles are required to undergo this assessment. HVRAS falls into two categories: trailers and heavy vehicles. This division may seem straightforward, but let’s clarify these categories further.
Trailers:
1. Box (pig) trailer - caravans, small trailers
2. Dog trailer - dolly, trailer with a drawbar
3. Semi trailer/gooseneck trailer - a semi trailer attached to a prime mover, including lead and middle trailers
4. Converter dolly - pig trailer equipped with a fifth wheel coupling
5. Low loader/dolly trailer
6. Tag trailer - load-carrying trailer with a drawbar
7. Mobile equipment trailer - trailers for speed cameras, floodlights, etc.
Heavy Vehicles:
1. Rigid truck - load-carrying trucks and buses
2. Prime mover - trucks designed for towing loads
3. Articulated bus - sectioned buses
4. Motorhome - vehicles containing sleeping and cooking facilities
So how do you know if you need an HVRAS? Not every truck or trailer requires one; the assessment is necessary solely if the vehicle is currently unregistered or registered in another state. This also applies to brand-new trailers and trucks entering Queensland, whether they were imported or manufactured locally.
To remember: if the vehicle is not registered in Queensland, an HVRAS is required.
You might be wondering, can you fail an HVRAS? Yes, a truck or trailer can fail if it does not meet regulatory limits. There could be various reasons for this, such as a trailer exceeding the width limit of 2.5 meters, in which case you would need to consult NHVR (National Heavy Vehicle Regulator) for heavy vehicles or TMR for light vehicles.
But why does TMR require all this information? Every vehicle must comply with specific guidelines to ensure safety on our roads. Trucks and trailer combinations must operate safely to mitigate risks posed by the demands of road networks and traffic environments on vehicle manoeuvrability and stability. TMR aims to protect Queensland's road system, bridges, and other vehicles.
Roadworthy 2 U have a large number of qualified HVRAS technician available Queensland wide which are all a mobile service which means our technician comes to you for all HVRAS needs, no more waiting in a long line at TMR. You can book with Roadworthy 2 U directly online or give us a call.
I hope this overview clarifies everything you need to know about HVRAS certificates. We have included examples of the necessary forms that all HVRAS examiners must complete. If you need additional information, please feel free to contact Roadworthy directly at 0428 415 849 or email us at info@roadworthy2u.com.au.
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