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The MAN TGS 18.440 illustrates the coding scheme: the first number before the dot, here 18, states the permissible gross weight in tonnes. The number after the dot, here 440, gives engine power in horsepower, equating to around 324 kW according to the technical data sheet. A TGS 18.440 is therefore an 18-tonne vehicle rated at 440 hp, and the same system applies unchanged to the TGX, for instance the TGX 18.440 with comparable output. Higher first numbers, such as 26 or 41, correspondingly denote heavier chassis, for example tippers or articulated tractor units with more axles.

The numeric code is often followed by an axle formula such as 4x2 or 6x4: the first digit states the total number of wheels (or axle ends), the second the number driven. A 4x2 has two axles with one driven, while a 6x4 has three axles with two driven — relevant for traction on site or in heavy haulage. MAN also assigns cab codes such as L, LX, XL, XLX and XXL to describe cab size: L is the most compact cab for regional and distribution transport, LX a narrow high-roof cab for payload-intensive long-haul work, XLX the cab regarded as the versatile choice for long-haul and tractive transport, and XXL the largest version with a high roof, geared towards comfort on long journeys.

The TG in TGX and TGS stands for 'Trucknology Generation', the name for the modular MAN series family built since the early 2000s. The first generation was called TGA and replaced the preceding F2000 Evolution series in 2000, followed by the TGX as a standalone long-haul series in 2007. The letter after TG (A, X, S, M, L) has since distinguished the individual series by intended use and weight class within the same modular system. For a buyer, TG therefore says nothing about weight or power, only about the vehicle's generation and family.

When buying used, it is worth looking at series, numeric code and axle formula together: a TGS 18.440 4x2 is a different vehicle from a TGS 26.440 6x4, even though both belong to the same series and power class, because gross weight and driven axles differ. A buyer looking for a long-haul tractor unit should look for a TGX with an LX or XLX cab and matching horsepower, while someone needing a site vehicle should look for a TGS with a sturdy axle formula such as 6x4 or 8x4. The engine power stated in the code should always be checked against the data sheet or vehicle papers, since model year and engine variant can shift actual output slightly. This way, the type designation alone already indicates whether a vehicle suits the intended use, before an inspection.