Tax for 73,000 lb Concrete Mixer

Understanding Form 2290 for a 73,000 lb Concrete Mixer Truck

As a trucking tax consultant, I frequently encounter questions regarding the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) and its application to specialized vehicles like concrete mixer trucks. This guide specifically addresses Form 2290 filing requirements for a concrete mixer truck with a gross vehicle weight of 73,000 lbs. The HVUT, outlined in IRS Section 4481, is an annual tax assessed on heavy highway vehicles operating on public roads with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more. Accurately determining your vehicle's taxable gross weight is crucial for proper tax calculation and avoiding penalties.

What is Taxable Gross Weight?

The taxable gross weight isn't simply the vehicle's empty weight. It's the sum of:

• The actual unloaded weight of the vehicle (including all accessories ordinarily used).
• The actual unloaded weight of any trailers or semi-trailers customarily used in combination with the vehicle.
• The weight of the maximum load customarily carried on the vehicle and any trailers or semi-trailers.

For a concrete mixer, this includes the weight of the truck itself, the mixing drum, and the maximum weight of the concrete it can legally carry. Since your concrete mixer truck weighs 73,000 lbs, it definitely falls under the HVUT requirements.

Calculating Your 2290 Tax for a 73,000 lb Concrete Mixer

The HVUT rate is determined by the vehicle's taxable gross weight. According to the IRS guidelines, vehicles weighing 55,000 pounds or more are subject to the tax. The current rate starts at a base amount for vehicles at the 55,000-pound threshold and increases incrementally for each additional 1,000 pounds of weight.

As of July 2023, the HVUT rate is as follows:

• Vehicles weighing 55,000 to 75,000 pounds: $100 base tax, plus $22.00 for each 1,000 pounds (or fraction thereof) over 55,000 pounds.
• Vehicles weighing over 75,000 pounds: $550.

For your 73,000 lb concrete mixer:

1. Calculate the weight exceeding 55,000 lbs: 73,000 lbs - 55,000 lbs = 18,000 lbs.
2. Determine the number of 1,000 lb increments: 18,000 lbs / 1,000 lbs = 18 increments.
3. Calculate the incremental tax: 18 increments * $22.00/increment = $396.
4. Calculate the total HVUT: $100 (base tax) + $396 (incremental tax) = $496.

Therefore, the HVUT due for your 73,000 lb concrete mixer truck is $496 for the tax year. The tax year starts July 1 and ends June 30. Form 2290 must be filed by August 31 for vehicles used on public highways during July.

Filing Form 2290

You can file Form 2290 electronically or by mail. E-filing is mandatory for those filing for 25 or more vehicles. However, even if you have fewer vehicles, e-filing is generally faster and more convenient. You will need your Employer Identification Number (EIN) to file. A Social Security number cannot be used.

Understanding Suspended Vehicles

Even if you believe your concrete mixer is exempt from the HVUT due to low mileage (using the vehicle for 5,000 miles or less during the tax year), you are still required to file Form 2290, claiming a suspension. This informs the IRS that you acknowledge the vehicle's presence but believe it qualifies for an exemption. Failing to file, even with a valid suspension claim, can result in penalties.

Required Information for Form 2290

When filing Form 2290, you'll need the following information:

• Your Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for each vehicle
• Taxable gross weight of each vehicle
• Address of the vehicle's principal place of business