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Actual axle load
The sign may be integrated into a lane-transition board, lane-diversion board or lane board. In that case, the prohibition applies only to the respective lane for which the prohibition is ordered.
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When you see the Zeichen
Check whether the actual load on any individual axle of your vehicle exceeds the value shown on the sign. If even a single axle is overloaded, you may not use the road or the affected lane and must choose another route.
Rules
- The sign prohibits passage for vehicles whose actual axle load exceeds the specified value.
- What matters is the current axle load, which depends on the load, not the vehicle's permitted gross weight.
- Each axle must be considered separately; uneven loading can therefore result in the prohibition applying even when the permitted gross weight is not exceeded.
- If Zeichen 263 is integrated into a lane-transition, lane-shift or lane-direction sign, the prohibition applies only to the lane indicated there.
Tips
- Distribute heavy loads as evenly as possible and pay particular attention to the vehicle's permitted axle loads.
- Do not assume that you can simply divide the gross weight by the number of axles; the actual load distribution may differ considerably.
- With a vehicle combination, the trailer's nose weight can place additional load on the towing vehicle's rear axle.
- If the actual axle load is unclear, have the loaded vehicle checked on a suitable weighing scale before setting off.
Common misunderstandings
- The sign is confused with a limit on the actual gross weight. However, Zeichen 263 limits the load on an individual axle.
- Learners assume that only trucks are affected. The prohibition applies to every vehicle whose actual axle load exceeds the specified value.
- Often, only the unladen weight or the permitted gross weight shown in the vehicle documents is checked, even though the current load and its distribution are decisive.
Exam tip
In theory-test questions, pay attention to the difference between axle load and gross weight: with Zeichen 263, you must compare the actual load on each individual axle with the value shown on the sign. If the axle load is exactly equal to the specified value, passage is permitted; it is prohibited only when the value is exceeded.
Did you know
Zeichen 263 is often placed before bridges or sections of road whose structure or road surface can withstand only a limited concentrated load. A vehicle may therefore be excluded despite having a permitted gross weight, if too much load is placed on a single axle.
Frequently asked questions
What does the specification “8 t” on Zeichen 263 mean, for example?
No individual axle of the vehicle may actually be loaded with more than 8 tonnes. The specification does not refer to the total weight of the entire vehicle.
May I continue driving if only a single axle exceeds the specified value?
No. The vehicle is already covered by the prohibition if the specified value is exceeded by a single axle.
Does Zeichen 263 also apply to passenger cars and motorhomes?
Yes, the sign is not restricted to specific types of vehicle. Ordinary passenger cars rarely reach such axle loads in practice, but the sign may be relevant for heavy motorhomes or heavily loaded vehicles.
How does Zeichen 263 differ from Zeichen 253?
Zeichen 263 limits the actual load on an individual axle. Zeichen 253, on the other hand, generally prohibits motor vehicles with a permitted gross weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes, including their trailers and towing vehicles; passenger cars and buses are exempt.
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Other Zeichen in the same category
Prohibition for vehicles of all kinds
Prohibition for motor vehicles
Prohibition for motor vehicles over 3.5 t
Prohibition for bicycle traffic
Prohibition for motorcycles
Prohibition for pedestrians
Prohibition for motor vehicles
Prohibition for motor vehicles carrying dangerous goods and subject to marking