The 'C' Rating on Van Tyres: Commercial Ratings Decoded

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 by Chesca D
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Chesca D is a Content & Editorial Coordinator at Tyres.co.uk and is responsible for researching, coordinating, and producing accurate, up-to-date tyre guidance for our Knowledge Hub..
Each article is created using manufacturer specifications, recognised industry standards, and current UK regulations, and is reviewed internally to ensure clarity and technical accuracy. Content is updated regularly to reflect changes in tyre laws, safety guidance, and product specifications.
Fact-checked by the Tyres.co.uk editorial team
Published April 21, 2026
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If you look at any tyre from its side profile, you will notice a series of markings on the sidewall. While virtually impossible to decipher without the right information, once you understand what these markings mean you realise that they are actually incredibly important for tyre selection and safe driving.

Just some of the information contained and outlined within these markings includes the tyre size, its safe load rating (the maximum weight of the vehicle for safe handling), and its speed rating (how fast the tyres can travel safely). In this blog, we’re looking at the different ratings on a commercial van tyre specifically, and what the ‘C’ rating is for a van tyre.

What is the ‘C’ Rating on a Van Tyre?

The first thing you need to know about a commercial van tyre, is that it has what’s known as a ‘C’ rating. This simply means that the tyre is designed for commercial use on a van or similar vehicle. A ‘C’ marked tyre is strong enough to withstand the weight of heavier loads than normal tyres on the market.

Commercial tyres do not tend to be suitable for passenger vehicles, just like it is not safe to fit a passenger car tyre to a commercial vehicle or van. These tyre types are designed for safe handling as well as durability and should be correctly matched to the right vehicle.

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What Other Markings Do Van Tyres Have?

As you look at the sidewall, you will see a range of other markings on your van tyre. Here’s a quick guide to what they all mean…

  • Tyre Width – the measurement from one edge of the sidewall to the other in mm
  • Aspect Ratio – the percentage measurement of height to width
  • Tyre Height – the height of the tyre in inches
  • Load Index / Rating – a numerical code that determines the maximum weight a tyre can carry, that relates back to the load index chart for UK drivers
  • Speed Rating – a letter that determines the maximum speed a tyre can drive at, that relates back to the speed rating chart for UK drivers
  • DOT Manufacturing Code – when the tyre was manufactured (in week of the year, and year)

Commercial tyres may have other markings on them, that determine specific features and benefits of that particular model. For example, a tyre may have FRT on it which means ‘Free Rolling Tyre’ and is suitable for trailer fitments, or RFT which means the tyre has a run-flat design.

Which Markings Do I Need to Know?

The most important markings for van drivers are the ‘C’ rating that denotes a commercial tyre, and the load and speed ratings. These are crucial for safe handling of the vehicle and ensure that your tyre fitment is correct according to your vehicle.

At the end of the tyre size calculation, look out for a number followed closely by a letter – for example, 91V. This is the load index and speed rating, with the relevant charts enabling you to cross-check what they represent.

If in doubt about tyre markings and measurements, our team is always on hand to offer advice and support. Alternatively, look at the existing markings on your van’s OEM tyres and make sure that the ratings correlate to what is already fitted.

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