Each country has its own specifications regarding maximum lengths, widths, heights, axle loads and weights. In Germany, the so-called “40 ton truck” can be used without any special permit. According to the specifications of the EU Directive 96/53/EC, the maximum length of a semitrailer truck may not exceed 16.50 m (width 2.55m, height 4.00 m). Trailers can be 12m max., articulated vehicles 18.75m max. and the total weight of the train with load is limited to 40tons. Everything that exceeds this limit requires a permit and is therefore a called heavy haulage / heavy transport / special transport.