HVRAS stands for Heavy Vehicle Regulation Assessment Scheme. It is essentially a trailer and truck measurement and weight calculation before they are registered in Queensland to ensure they comply with the relevant legislation. HVRAS was introduced to ensure all heavy vehicles on Queensland roads were measured for axle weights, vehicle dimensions (including height and length) and cargo carrying capacity. This information is then used to calculate the total weight of the vehicle, which must be less than the maximum permissible limit as specified in the relevant legislation.
HVRAS is a voluntary scheme, however all heavy vehicles registered in Queensland are required to have a valid HVRAS Certificate prior to registration. If you are registering a new heavy vehicle or renewing the registration of an existing heavy vehicle, you will need to provide a valid HVRAS Certificate. The scheme is important for several reasons, which we will cover below.
Meeting safety standards and regulations
Before your vehicle can be registered, the HVRAS ensures that it meets all of the necessary safety standards and regulations. This means that you can be confident that your vehicle is roadworthy. Consequently, the HVRAS inspection helps to increase road safety in Queensland by ensuring that all vehicles are properly maintained and meet safety standards. This reduces the number of accidents and incidents involving unsafe vehicles.
HVRAS Prevents overloading
The HVRAS inspection helps to prevent the overloading of vehicles as it requires that vehicles are not overloaded beyond their maximum permissible axle weights. This helps to improve road safety as overloaded vehicles are more likely to be involved in accidents due to their reduced manoeuvrability and braking ability. It can also help you avoid fines for breaching load limits, which is another good reason to make sure your vehicle is properly registered.
HVRAS Improves safety for all road users
The HVRAS inspection helps to improve safety for all road users as it ensures that vehicles are properly maintained and not overloaded. This helps to reduce the number of accidents and incidents involving unsafe vehicles. It also helps to improve the efficiency of the roads as overloaded or poorly maintained vehicles can cause congestion.
Reduce wear and tear on your fleet
Heavier loads can put a strain on brakes, tyres and other vehicle components, so by ensuring that your vehicles are properly registered and not overloaded, you can reduce fleet wear and tear. This will save you money in the long run because you won’t have to replace or repair parts as often. The last thing you want is for one of your vehicles to break down on the side of the road because it’s overloaded – this could not only cost you money in repairs, but it could also cause disruptions to your business operations.
Save time and money on administration
It can also help you avoid potential legal issues, as there are strict laws regarding vehicle weights and loads in place. You may face fines or other penalties if you are not properly registered and these administrative fees and lost productivity can cost you time and money. You can avoid these penalties and save time and money by keeping your registration up to date.
The MK Equipment Services team is made up of qualified heavy diesel mechanics, boilermakers, exhaust fitters and welders who all deliver superior workmanship. Our workshop in Rocklea is fitted out with the latest tools and equipment, so you can be confident that your vehicles are in good hands. Contact the team at MK Equipment Services today at (07) 3272 9519 to discuss how we can help you out!