What Is Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)?

Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), in the simplest of terms, is the maximum amount a vehicle can weigh as it rolls down the road. This number includes the curb weight of the vehicle, all occupants, and all cargo.

What Is Gross CombinedWeightRating (GCWR)?

Gross combined vehicle weight rating (GCWR), however, is the maximum weight of a vehicle and its attached trailer. This figure is also inclusive of all passengers and cargo in both the tow vehicle and the trailer. This is also sometimes referred to as gross combined vehicle weight rating (GCVWR).

Is GVWR The Same As Payload?

No. A vehicle's GVWR is the maximum amount of weight the vehicle can weigh when fully loaded with occupants and cargo. A vehicle's payload rating is the amount of weight the vehicle can haul and is calculated by subtracting the vehicle's actual curb weight from its gross vehicle weight rating.

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Does GVWR Include Trailer Weight?

No. A vehicle's GVWR does not include the weight of any trailer. GVWR only accounts for the maximum weight of the vehicle, its occupants, and cargo. Also, if a trailer is in tow the trailer's tongue weight counts against a vehicle's GVWR.

Is GCWR The Same As Trailer Weight?

No. The GCWR is the full weight of the vehicle, all its occupants and cargo, the trailer tongue weight, and the trailer combined. Trailer weight is only half of the GCWR equation.

How Do I Calculate GCWR?

A vehicle's gross combined vehicle weight rating is given by the manufacturer. If you don't know yours, check your vehicle's owner's manual or the manufacturer's online towing guide. To properly calculate if you're under your vehicle's GCWR you'll need to know the actual curb weight of the vehicle, the weight of all occupants and cargo, and the actual weight of the trailer. The best way to do this if you're unsure of any part is to load up fully and head to a certified scale at a local truck stop or recycling center.

Can I Tow More Than My Truck's Tow Rating?

No. Often you'll find that when you subtract your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) from its gross combined weight rating (GCWR) that the number is a touch higher than the manufacturer's advertised maximum tow rating. Sometimes it goes in the opposite direction. Whichever is the lower number is the one that needs to be observed when it comes to maximum trailer weights.