Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) is the regulatory designation for large commercial freight trucks in the UK and Europe. Vehicles in this class require specialized driver licensing, strict adherence to hours-of-service rules, and frequent mechanical inspections. The category covers everything from rigid box trucks to multi-axle articulated lorries.
Heard on the job
The new bridge has a weight limit that restricts all HGV traffic during peak hours.
Insider tip
In North America, the equivalent regulatory term is usually Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) or heavy-duty truck.
Also heard as
- heavy goods vehicle