Maximum Payload & Towing Capacity Calculator

Understanding your semi truck’s maximum payload and towing capacity is crucial for safe and efficient hauling. Our user-friendly calculator assists truck owners and operators in determining their truck’s payload and towing capacity. Enter the truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), its curb weight, and the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) to get the results instantly.

The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), curb weight, and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of trucks are calculated by the vehicle manufacturer during the design and engineering process. The GVWR is determined by considering factors such as the vehicle’s chassis, suspension, axles, and braking system, ensuring it can safely carry a specified maximum load, including passengers and cargo. Curb weight is established by measuring the vehicle’s weight in its factory-ready condition with all essential fluids and standard equipment. The GCWR, on the other hand, is calculated by combining the truck’s GVWR with the maximum weight a trailer or trailers can safely tow, accounting for the vehicle’s powertrain, cooling systems, and towing capacity. These specifications are critical for vehicle safety, performance, and regulatory compliance.

Calculate Maximum Payload and Towing Capacity

Towing Capacity & Payload Calculator Formulas Used

Maximum Payload = GVWR – Curb Weight

Towing Capacity = GCWR – Curb Weight


In these formulas:
  • GVWR is the maximum weight a vehicle is rated to safely carry, including its own weight.
  • Curb Weight is the weight of the truck when it’s idle and without cargo or passengers.
  • GCWR is the total weight of a loaded truck and its towed load.

Examples of Maximum Payload & Towing Capacity

GVWR (lbs) Curb Weight (lbs) GCWR (lbs) Maximum Payload (lbs) Towing Capacity (lbs)
80000 25000 130000 55000 105000
75000 24000 125000 51000 101000

Where to Find Your Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)


The GVWR of your truck can be found in one of the following locations:

  1. Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual that came with your semi-truck is a valuable resource. It often includes important information about the vehicle, including the GVWR.
  2. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Plate: The GVWR may be listed on a metal plate or sticker located on the driver’s side door frame or inside the door jamb. This plate often contains various vehicle specifications, including the GVWR.
  3. Manufacturer’s Website: Some truck manufacturers provide access to vehicle specifications and documentation on their official websites. You can search for your specific make and model to find the GVWR.
  4. Certification Label: In the cab or engine compartment of your semi-truck, there may be a certification label that displays the GVWR. It’s typically a white label with black or dark-colored text.
  5. Contact the Manufacturer or Dealer: If you’re unable to locate the GVWR using the above methods, you can contact the manufacturer of your semi-truck or the dealership where you purchased it. They should be able to provide you with the necessary information.

It’s important to note that the location of the GVWR label may vary depending on the make and model of your semi-truck, so it’s a good idea to check multiple locations if you’re having trouble finding it. Additionally, the GVWR can vary from one truck to another, so be sure to reference the correct vehicle when looking for this information.


Where to Find Your Curb Weight


The curb weight of your semi-truck can be found on one of the following locations:

  1. Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual that came with your semi-truck often includes information about the vehicle’s curb weight. It may provide specifications for different trim levels and configurations.
  2. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Plate: Look for a metal plate or sticker on the driver’s side door frame or inside the driver’s side door jamb. This plate may contain various vehicle specifications, including the curb weight.
  3. Certification Label: Check the certification label, usually located in the cab or engine compartment. This label often displays the curb weight among other vehicle details.
  4. Manufacturer’s Website: Some truck manufacturers provide access to vehicle specifications and documentation on their official websites. You can search for your specific make and model to find the curb weight.
  5. Contact the Manufacturer or Dealer: If you have difficulty finding the curb weight using the above methods, you can contact the manufacturer of your semi-truck or the dealership where you purchased it. They should be able to provide you with the necessary information.

Remember that the location of the curb weight information may vary depending on the make and model of your semi-truck, so be sure to check multiple locations if needed. The curb weight can differ based on the specific configuration and optional features of your vehicle, so make sure you reference the correct one for your particular truck.


Where to Find Your Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)


The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of a semi-truck is typically provided by the vehicle manufacturer and can be found in various locations:

  1. Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual that came with your semi-truck is a valuable resource for finding the GCWR. It often includes detailed specifications for the vehicle, including the GCWR.
  2. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Plate: The GCWR may be listed on a metal plate or sticker located on the driver’s side door frame or inside the driver’s side door jamb. This plate often contains various vehicle specifications, including the GCWR.
  3. Certification Label: In the cab or engine compartment of your semi-truck, there may be a certification label that displays the GCWR. It’s typically a white label with black or dark-colored text and includes important vehicle information.
  4. Manufacturer’s Website: Some truck manufacturers provide access to vehicle specifications and documentation on their official websites. You can search for your specific make and model to find the GCWR.
  5. Contact the Manufacturer or Dealer: If you have difficulty finding the GCWR using the above methods, you can contact the manufacturer of your semi-truck or the dealership where you purchased it. They should be able to provide you with the necessary information.

The GCWR represents the maximum allowable weight for both the semi-truck and any trailers it may tow, including cargo. It is an important specification for ensuring safe and compliant operation of your commercial vehicle, so make sure to reference the correct information for your specific vehicle configuration.


Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is GVWR and why is it important?

GVWR stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and it indicates the maximum dry weight a truck can safely carry, including the weight of the truck itself. It’s an important measure for safety and avoiding potential fines or damage to the vehicle.

Towing capacity can be affected by factors such as engine size, transmission type, axle ratios, and the truck’s chassis and frame strength.

Yes, this calculator can be used for other types of vehicles as long as you know the GVWR, curb weight, and GCWR. Do note that the results are most accurate for vehicles designed for heavy-duty towing and payload capacities.

The trailer tongue weight (TW), also known as the king pin weight, is the amount of weight that’s applied to your truck’s trailer connection point (i.e., trailer hitch). Generally, it’s recommended to keep this number at 10-15% of the weight of the trailer.

Miscalculating your tongue weight can result in reduced handling and steering abilities, which is why you should always check with the manufacturer of your tow vehicle to learn the maximum trailer weight rating.

Gross vehicle weight rating refers to maximum weight of the vehicle while stationary, which includes the weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and fuel. On the other hand, a vehicle’s tow rating is the max towing capacity. This refers to the maximum weight limit your vehicle (including cargo) can safely tow.

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