This paper proposes a classification method for urban complexes based on its land development and city-wide influence. Thus, urban complexes can be divided into two types: city-wide urban complex and regional urban complex. Then, the radiation range characteristics of the two types were analyzed. From the characteristics of mode choice behavior, by means of both objective behavior modeling and subjective willingness analysis, the effectiveness of the classification method in characterizing travel behavior difference is quantitatively verified, figuring out its significance for refined transportation system configuration planning. Finally, through reviewing with the traditional classification methods, a more operable method for actual project is proposed. It may provide a clear guidance for the refined transportation configuration and avoid the deviation of planning direction.