How this calculator works
Gross vehicle weight rating is the maximum total weight a vehicle is designed to carry, including the vehicle itself, fuel, passengers and cargo. Tare weight, also called curb weight, is the empty vehicle with fluids. Rated payload is the difference between the two. The arithmetic is simple, but the legal and safety meaning is not: the rating is set by the manufacturer and must not be exceeded, and the actual loaded weight should be checked at a scale rather than estimated from a brochure.
Formula
GVWR = tare weight + rated payload. Rated payload = GVWR - tare weight. Tare weight = GVWR - rated payload.
Worked example
A pickup with a 2,000 kg tare weight and an 800 kg payload rating has a gross vehicle weight rating of 2,800 kg. In imperial units, a 3,500 lb curb weight and a 1,200 lb payload give 4,700 lb.
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Frequently asked questions
Is GVWR the same as the weight on the door sticker?
The door sticker normally lists GVWR and the front and rear gross axle weight ratings. Payload is often on a separate tyre and loading label. Use the sticker values for your exact vehicle, because they vary with options and suspension.
Does GVWR include passengers and fuel?
Yes. Everything carried by the vehicle counts toward GVWR, including the driver, passengers, fuel, tools and trailer tongue weight. Payload is not a separate allowance on top of those items.
What if the loaded weight exceeds GVWR?
You are overloading the vehicle, which can reduce braking and handling, overstress the tires and suspension, and create legal liability. Remove weight or use a vehicle rated for the load.
What about towing capacity?
Towing capacity is a separate rating. The trailer tongue weight still counts against the vehicle payload and GVWR, so a trailer can be within its tow rating while putting the tow vehicle over GVWR.