A Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV), or Poids Lourd (PL), is legally defined by its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) being greater than 3.

5 tonnes.

This broad category includes everything from rigid trucks to articulated lorries (tractor-trailers) and is the backbone of long-haul freight transport.

This classification triggers a host of specific, stricter regulations compared to Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs): - **Licensing:** Drivers require a special license (Category C, C1, C+E, or C1+E in Europe).

- **Tachograph:** They must be equipped with a tachograph to record driving and rest times, in accordance with social regulations.

- **Speed Limiters:** They are legally required to be fitted with speed limiters (typically set at 90 km/h).

- **Tolls and Taxes:** They are often subject to different (and higher) road tolls and taxes.

- **Driving Bans:** They can be subject to driving restrictions on certain roads or at certain times (e.

g.

, weekends).

Understanding this classification is fundamental for any transport company to ensure full legal and operational compliance.