Maximum Payload & Towing Capacity Calculator

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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 Vehicle Weight Information

Where to Find Your Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

Owner’s Manual: Includes important specs like the GVWR for your semi-truck.

VIN Plate: A metal plate or sticker located on the driver’s side door frame or inside the door jamb often lists the GVWR.

Manufacturer’s Website: Search by make and model to find detailed specifications including GVWR.

Certification Label: Usually found in the cab or engine compartment; typically a white label with black or dark text showing the GVWR.

Manufacturer or Dealer: Contact them if the GVWR can’t be located elsewhere.

Note: Label locations can vary by truck model, so check multiple areas.

Where to Find Your Curb Weight

Owner’s Manual: Often includes curb weight data for various configurations.

VIN Plate: Located on the driver’s side door frame or inside the door jamb, may show the curb weight.

Certification Label: Check the cab or engine compartment for this label—it often includes curb weight.

Manufacturer’s Website: Use your truck’s make and model to locate curb weight specs online.

Manufacturer or Dealer: Can provide precise curb weight info if other methods fail.

Note: Curb weight varies based on options and trim, so use info for your exact vehicle.

Where to Find Your Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)

Owner’s Manual: A trusted source for GCWR and other vehicle limits.

VIN Plate: May list the GCWR and is typically found on or near the driver’s side door.

Certification Label: Usually located in the cab or engine area, this label often shows GCWR.

Manufacturer’s Website: Offers downloadable spec sheets for most makes and models.

Manufacturer or Dealer: Contact them for official GCWR data if it’s not readily visible on the vehicle.

Note: GCWR includes the truck and any trailers plus cargo, so always check for your specific 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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