Vietnam’s pickup trucks are now classified as 2‑ton commercial vehicles, affecting registration fees, taxes, and city access. Find out what this means for owners today.
In November 2024 the Ministry of Transport (now the Ministry of Construction) issued Circular 53, a comprehensive guide that re‑defines how road vehicles are classified in Vietnam. One of the most eye‑catching outcomes is that almost every pickup truck – especially the popular double‑cabin models – falls into the “standard truck” category with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 2 tonnes or more.
What Circular 53 Says About Pickups
Appendix IV of the circular lists “standard trucks” (ô tô tải thông dụng) and includes a wide range of body styles: dump trucks, tanker trucks, refrigerated trucks, and—importantly—single‑cabin and double‑cabin pickup trucks. The definition specifies a cargo box that can be open or closed, optionally equipped with a hard top, and may be either integrated with or separate from the cabin.
Key Characteristics of Double‑Cabin Pickups
- Two rows of seats, maximum of five occupants including the driver.
- Cargo area without passenger‑comfort fittings.
- Specific floor‑area and payload‑to‑passenger‑weight ratios that influence classification.
Because of these criteria, many modern pickups easily exceed the 2 tonne GVW threshold.
Typical GVW Figures for Popular Models
- Ford Ranger Stormtrak – approx. 2,200 kg
- Toyota Hilux Trailhunter – approx. 2,095 kg
- Mitsubishi Triton – approx. 1,925 kg (close to the limit)
When the manufacturer‑stated GVW reaches or surpasses 2 tonnes, the vehicle is automatically placed in the standard‑truck group under Circular 53.
Tax, Registration and Usage Implications
Being classified as a standard truck brings several financial and practical changes:
- Registration fee: Payable at 60 % of the passenger‑car rate, roughly 6‑7.2 % of the vehicle’s value.
- Special consumption tax (SCT): Ranges from 15 % to 25 % depending on engine displacement.
- Vehicle lifespan: Trucks are limited to a 25‑year service life, whereas passenger cars have no such cap.
- Urban restrictions: Many major cities restrict vehicles over 2 tonnes from entering inner‑city zones, mirroring the rules applied to larger trucks.
What This Means for Pickup Owners
If you register a double‑cabin pickup as a “passenger car,” you avoid the 25‑year mileage cap but pay higher registration fees. Conversely, registering it as a “standard truck” reduces the upfront cost but brings the above tax rates and possible city‑access limitations.
Potential buyers should weigh the following:
- Intended usage – commercial hauling vs. everyday commuting.
- Typical routes – frequent trips into city centres may be hindered.
- Budget for taxes and long‑term depreciation.
Key Takeaway
Under Circular 53, most double‑cabin pickups sold in Vietnam are officially “standard trucks” with a GVW of 2 tonnes or more. This classification influences registration fees, special taxes, vehicle lifespan, and urban mobility. Understanding these rules helps owners make smarter decisions about purchase, registration, and daily operation.
Stay informed and choose the classification that best fits your needs.