Semi-trailer truckNetherlands

Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.

Traffic signs

Traffic rules

Netherlands

75. Semi-trailer truck

A semi-trailer truck is a combination consisting of a road tractor and a semi-trailer used primarily for transporting goods. The semi-trailer is coupled to the tractor so that a significant part of its weight is supported by the tractor rather than entirely by its own wheels.

Semi-trailer trucks are commonly used for long-distance freight transport and may carry containers, refrigerated goods, liquids, bulk materials or other cargo. Special rules can apply concerning driving licences, maximum dimensions and masses, speed limits, lane use, overtaking, loading and driving and rest periods.

A Mercedes semi-trailer truck. (Regensburg, Germany)
Wikimedia.org • High Contrast • CC BY

What is a semi-trailer truck?

A semi-trailer truck consists of a powered road tractor coupled to a semi-trailer primarily used to transport goods.

What is a semi-trailer?

A semi-trailer is a trailer designed so that part of the trailer and a significant part of its load are supported by the towing tractor.

What is the difference between a semi-trailer and an ordinary trailer?

An ordinary trailer generally supports its own weight through its axles, while a semi-trailer transfers a substantial vertical load to the tractor through its coupling.

How is a semi-trailer connected to the tractor?

The semi-trailer is normally connected through a kingpin and fifth-wheel coupling mounted behind the tractor cab.

Why are semi-trailer trucks called articulated vehicles?

The tractor and semi-trailer are connected by a pivoting coupling, allowing the two parts to turn relative to each other when the combination changes direction.

Do you need a special licence to drive a semi-trailer truck?

Yes. Heavy articulated trucks normally require a heavy-goods-vehicle licence that also authorises the driver to tow a heavy trailer or semi-trailer. The precise licence categories differ between countries.

Do semi-trailer trucks have lower speed limits?

They often do. Many countries impose vehicle-specific maximum speeds on heavy goods vehicles, particularly on motorways and other high-speed roads.

Why do semi-trailer trucks need more space to turn?

The semi-trailer's rear wheels follow a tighter path than the tractor's front wheels. Drivers therefore need additional space when turning, particularly at narrow intersections.

Why should you leave extra distance behind a semi-trailer truck?

Large trucks can restrict your view of traffic ahead and require considerable stopping distance. Keeping an appropriate following distance improves visibility and reaction time.

Why should you take care when driving beside a semi-trailer truck?

Large trucks have substantial blind spots around the cab and trailer. Avoid remaining beside the vehicle unnecessarily and be particularly careful when the truck is turning or changing lane.

Construction vehicle

Trolleybus

1 Netherlands 2 Motorway 3 Expressway 4 Residential area 5 Zone 6 Speed limit 7 Footpath 8 Bike path 9 Cycling street 10 Pedestrian zone 11 Slope 12 Bus stop 13 Dead end 14 Stop sign 15 Give way 16 Roundabout 17 Priority road 18 Railway crossing 19 School area 20 Overtaking 21 Crossing animals 22 Roadworks 23 Weight limit 24 Radar speed sign 25 Selective barriers 26 Low-emission zone 27 Priority at the next junction 28 Traffic lights 29 Traffic lights warning 30 Road markings 31 Speed feedback 32 Traffic mirror 33 Emergency telephone 34 Cycling route 35 Parking 36 No parking 37 No stopping 38 Park and ride 39 Kiss and ride 40 Parking disc 41 Disabled parking 42 Traffic management 43 Merging 44 Reversing 45 Uncontrolled crossroad 46 Advisory cycle lane 47 Rush-hour lane 48 Emergency exit 49 Oversize load 50 City limit 51 Parking zone 52 Axle weight limit 53 Licence plate 54 Charging station 55 Dangers 56 Equestrian trail 57 Cyclist 58 Truck 59 Bus 60 Police 61 Ambulance 62 Bicycle parking station 63 Tram lights 64 European emission standard 65 Pothole 66 Path 67 Particulates 68 Air pollution 69 Rush hour 70 Road code 71 Street gutter 72 Cargo bike 73 Forestry vehicle 74 Construction vehicle 75 Semi-trailer truck 76 Trolleybus 77 Speed pedelec 78 Delivery vehicle 79 Idling 80 Tow truck 81 Four-wheel drive 82 No vehicles 83 Bicycle 84 Motorcycle equipment 85 Rail track 86 Caravan 87 Trailer 88 Tow hitch 89 Fire truck 90 Siren 91 Convoy 92 Emergency vehicle lighting 93 Agricultural machinery 94 Electric bicycle 95 Electric vehicle 96 Pedelec 97 Quadricycle 98 Microcar 99 All-terrain vehicle 100 Van ...