The VIUS has been the principal data source on the physical and operational characteristics of the United States truck population. Its primary goal is to gain an understanding nationally and statewide on how trucks are being utilized for various goods transport. The first survey was conducted in 1963. It was then conducted every five years beginning in 1967 through 2002. Please see the Historical Data section below for access to this data.
If you are interested in receiving updates on the upcoming 2021 VIUS, please submit your name and email address to VIUS@bts.gov and we will add you to our newsletter
The 2021 VIUS
• Miles traveled and fuel economy by weight, type, configuration, and age of vehicle
• Axle configurations, trailers hauled, and operating weight
• Equipment added after manufacture of the chassis
• Business versus personal use and types of economic activity served
• Commodities carried
| Milestones | Planned Completion |
|---|---|
| Mini Pilot Study | January - March, 2021 |
| Full Survey | Feburary - October, 2022 |
| Data Release | Fall 2023 |
Uses
Current VIUS estimates are of critical importance to federal agencies, state departments of transportation, metropolitan planning organizations, and businesses. Results from the 2021 survey will provide statistics for:
• Vehicle size and weight studies
• Tracking the deployment of driver-assistance technology
• Input to freight demand models and air quality models
• Role of motor vehicles in the economy
• Fuel efficiency of the Nation's truck fleet
• Analyses of fees and allocation of cost among highway users
• Highway traveler exposure to potential safety risks