GVWR: meaning and examples
GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) is the maximum weight the manufacturer says a vehicle can safely carry when fully loaded, including the vehicle itself, fuel, passengers, cargo and any tongue weight. It is printed on a label on the vehicle.
How it works
GVWR is the most the manufacturer says a vehicle can weigh when fully loaded. It includes the vehicle's own weight, fuel, passengers, cargo and, for towing, the weight pressing down on the tow ball. It is set by the maker and printed on a label on the vehicle, often on the door edge.
It matters for safety and for the law. Running over the rating puts extra stress on brakes, tyres and suspension, and in many places it can be an offence.
For trailers, there is a similar rating for the trailer. Check the labels on both when you tow.
Why it helps to write it down
Illustration: you load a ute with tools, materials and passengers and hitch a trailer. With the GVWR in your notes you can compare it with what you are carrying.
How to track it in Loggy
Loggy does not track weights. You can put the GVWR in a log entry's notes so it sits with the service history when you load up or tow.
- Find the GVWR on the vehicle's label or in the manual.
- Put it in a log entry's notes so it sits with the vehicle's record.
- Add trailers as separate vehicles with their own ratings.
Loggy is a free maintenance logbook app for iOS and Android. The free plan has unlimited vehicles, reminders, PDF export and vehicle transfer, and no ads.
Frequently asked questions
What does GVWR stand for?
Gross vehicle weight rating.
Is GVWR the weight of the empty vehicle?
No. The empty weight is the kerb or curb weight. GVWR is the maximum loaded weight.
Where do I find my GVWR?
On the vehicle's compliance or certification label and in the owner's manual.