Conspicuity markings help make large vehicles more visible on the road, especially at night or in poor weather. For UK and EU haulage firms running fleets of HGVs and trailers, getting this right isn’t just about compliance—it also protects drivers and others on the road.
In this article, we’ll explain what conspicuity markings are, where they’re required, how they differ across the UK and EU, and how to apply them properly to different vehicle types. We’ll also cover the latest rules, enforcement checks, and tips for keeping your fleet compliant.
What are conspicuity markings?
Conspicuity markings are reflective lines—usually in yellow, white, or red—that outline the sides and rear of large goods vehicles. They’re made from HGV reflective tape that reflects light from approaching headlights, helping other road users see the full shape and length of a vehicle.
When fitted correctly, these markings reduce the risk of side and rear collisions, particularly in poor visibility. They’re especially helpful for long vehicles like walking floor trailers or rigids travelling at night.
Most conspicuity tape regulations apply to vehicles over certain weight thresholds. We’ll cover the exact classes later on.
How conspicuity tape works
Conspicuity tape uses microprismatic or glass bead retroreflective materials. These materials bounce light from headlights back toward its source, making vehicles more visible from a distance.
It’s not just about sticking tape anywhere. The way you apply it—how close it is to the edges, how far it runs along the body, and how high or low it sits—affects how well it works. The layout should match the outline of the vehicle as closely as possible.
Types of conspicuity tape used on HGVs
Most compliant HGV reflective tape meets UNECE Regulation 104. This standard outlines how reflective the tape must be, what colours are allowed, and how wide each strip needs to be (usually 50mm).
You’ll find three colour types:
- Yellow or white for side markings
- Red or yellow for rear markings
Tape must carry an E-mark and a homologation number to show it’s been tested and approved. Some high-spec tapes, such as diamond-grade options, last longer and are easier to apply to curved or uneven bodywork.
UK and EU conspicuity marking regulations
Rules for conspicuity markings come from both UK domestic law and international frameworks. Most are now based on UNECE Regulation 104 and Regulation 48, which lay out how to fit lighting and reflectors on vehicles.
The UK brought these rules into domestic law via amendments to the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989. Since 10 July 2011, most new goods vehicles and trailers must have approved conspicuity markings at manufacture or first use.
Vehicle marking regulations in the UK
In the UK, the rules apply to:
- Goods vehicles with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) over 7.5 tonnes
- Trailers over 3.5 tonnes MAM
Exemptions include:
- Vehicles under these weight thresholds
- Tractor units and vehicles under six metres long
- Narrow vehicles under 2.1 metres wide
Rear markings must outline at least 80% of the width of the vehicle, sitting as close to the top and bottom edges as possible. Side markings should run along at least 80% of the vehicle’s length (excluding the cab), ending within 600mm of the front and rear. The lower edge should be between 250mm and 1,500mm from the ground.
Tick marks at the upper corners help show the vehicle’s height. DVSA fleet compliance inspectors will expect these features to be present at annual test.
Conspicuity tape regulations across EU countries
Many EU member states follow UNECE Regulation 48 closely. But there are some differences.
In some cases, haulage vehicles need only 70% side coverage instead of 80%, and cab length is included in the overall vehicle length. This means the markings start nearer the front than UK layouts require. An alternative layout allows fleets to use a series of approved retroreflectors near the front instead of full-length tape.
These layouts are especially common on international trailers and vehicles approved under EU Directive 2007/35/EC.
For firms using international HGV drivers or operating cross-border, it’s worth training depot teams on both UK and EU marking differences to avoid delays at inspection points.
Marking standards by vehicle type
Not all vehicles suit standard marking layouts. Some have equipment or structural features that block part of the trailer body. In those cases, a line marking layout may be used instead of full or partial contour marking.
Common examples include:
- Skip loaders
- Concrete mixers
- Container carriers
- Hook-lift bodies
- Refuse trucks
- ADR haulage vehicles
- Car transporters
- Flatbeds or low loaders
If you operate a mixed fleet with specialist trailers, it’s safer to assume that some level of customisation or manufacturer guidance will be needed. The DVSA allows for these cases during inspections, as long as the markings reach the minimum standard and follow acceptable positions.
Rear markings and acceptable alternatives
Rear markings can be tape or rear marker plates (R70.01 approved). If fitted correctly, R70.01 plates can count toward the rear contour requirement. They must sit at least 200mm from the stop lamps and be within 400mm of the top edge of the body.
Avoid mixing older R70.00 plates with reflective tape. These don’t count toward compliance under current rules.
Inspection, type approval and enforcement
From 2012 onwards, the DVSA has checked conspicuity markings during the annual HGV test. Examiners check the rear and side tapes or markings. If the layout falls outside the required positions, the vehicle may be flagged.
If your vehicles fall under EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval, the markings will likely be installed before delivery. But it’s still the operator’s responsibility to keep the markings in good condition.
Wear and tear, pressure washing, or UV exposure can all fade or peel reflective tape. Drivers should include visual checks as part of their daily walkarounds. It also helps support wider compliance with drivers’ hours rules and safety policies.
Using HGV reflective tape across a mixed fleet
Fleet managers running courier vans, rigids and articulated trailers may struggle with consistency. You might not need conspicuity markings on vans under 3.5 tonnes, but it’s worth considering uniform markings across the fleet for visual consistency and road safety.
This becomes more relevant when vehicles carry branded wraps, or when markings form part of your haulage fleet insurance risk profile.
Many operators pair reflective tape with edge-mounted lamps for increased visibility. Just make sure the combined layout doesn’t breach lighting regulations or make marker lights harder to see.
Choosing the right conspicuity markings for your fleet
Choosing conspicuity markings starts with compliance. But cost, durability, and fitment method also matter.
Look for E-marked tape with an approval code matching ECE 104. Suppliers should provide test certificates or technical datasheets on request. Avoid cheap, unbranded imports that may not reflect consistently or stick to the vehicle surface.
Speak to your bodybuilder or trailer supplier about mounting points. Some older vehicles may need small modifications, such as aluminium strips or brackets, to create flat surfaces for tape application.
High-performance tapes can improve visibility at distances of up to 1,000 metres. This is especially useful in poor weather or when transporting goods like food, chemicals, or cold chain transport.
A well-marked trailer is also easier to spot in depots, on ferry decks, or when coupling in the dark.
Conspicuity regulation FAQs
What are conspicuity markings and when are they required?
These are reflective strips applied to HGVs and trailers to outline their shape and improve visibility. They’re required on vehicles over 7.5 tonnes MAM (or 3.5 tonnes for trailers) first registered on or after 10 July 2011.
Are conspicuity rules the same across the UK and EU?
Not quite. While both follow UNECE Regulation 104, the UK requires 80% coverage and excludes the cab. Some EU countries allow 70% coverage and include the cab. Always check local guidance when operating internationally.
What are the conspicuity tape regulations for skip loaders and other specialist vehicles?
Line markings are often acceptable if a full contour isn’t possible due to the body design. DVSA examiners allow for this, as long as the markings meet length and height rules and are clearly visible.
Do vans need to follow conspicuity marking rules too?
Only if the van exceeds 3.5 tonnes MAM. However, many operators still use markings on lighter vans for consistency and visibility—especially for night work, urban deliveries or ULEZ-compliant HGVs operating in London.
How do I know if my conspicuity tape is compliant?
Check for the E-mark and approval code under ECE 104. The tape should be yellow, white, or red, depending on the position, and be at least 50mm wide. If in doubt, ask your supplier or refer to the DVSA’s HGV inspection manual.
