What Does GVWR Mean?
When buying a commercial vehicle, you must know what the GVWR means on your truck, especially if you haul heavy loads. GVWR stands for “Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.” Sam Leman Automotive Group will guide you on adhering to GVWR and vehicle weight classifications.
GVWR Meaning and Explanation
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating represents your vehicle’s maximum total safe weight. Knowing how to find the GVWR means understanding the curb weight, plus the weight of your passengers, fuel, any accessories added to the vehicle, cargo, and the “tongue weight” of a tow trailer (normally 10-20% of the combined tow load and trailer weight).
For example, let’s say the GVWR for your vehicle is 7,000 pounds. The curb weight is 5,000 pounds. That means any load you haul would have to be less than 2,000 pounds (as you would have to account for the weight of fuel and passengers). Knowing vehicle weight safety standards is essential.
GVWR vs. GAWR
Let’s compare GVWR vs. GAWR. Understanding the difference between Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is essential for safe and efficient vehicle operation. GVWR represents the maximum total weight a vehicle can safely handle, encompassing the car, passengers, cargo, fuel, and additional equipment. In contrast, GAWR specifies the maximum weight that each individual axle—front or rear—can support. It is important to adhere to the GVWR to ensure no single axle is overloaded.
What is the Difference Between Gross Weight and Curb Weight?
The main difference between the gross weight and the curb weight is that the curb weight is how much a vehicle weighs without any passengers or added cargo. The gross weight encompasses the vehicle’s entire weight with passengers, cargo, and any towing weight from a trailer. A vehicle must not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating! Severe and irreparable damage can happen. Therefore, maintaining vehicle weight safety standards is crucial.
The Importance of Adhering to GVWR
You could get ticketed if you exceed your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. But that could be the least of your worries if you’re caught surpassing your vehicle’s GVWR, meaning you could also face criminal charges, including manslaughter in some states, if there is an accident that involves the loss of life. That’s not to mention that overloading your truck could cause serious damage to the vehicle, like breaking the suspension.
There are also legal requirements for different GVWRs. Your vehicle may need specific insurance if it rates above a certain GVWR. You may need a CDL license to operate a commercial vehicle over a certain GVWR. This is why it’s important to know your car’s weight classifications.
What is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating for Your Vehicle?
It’s easy to find the GVWR for your commercial vehicle or truck. There is usually a sticker on the inside of the driver-side door. This will tell you both the GVWR and the curb weight. If the information is not there, check your owner’s manual.
From RAM to Ford and everything in between, we supply commercial drivers with top-tier, work-ready trucks. If you want to know the GVWR for one of our models or need help establishing the GVWR for your truck, our team can help! We can tell you the GVWR for your truck based on the make and model and the GVWR of the vehicles for sale at our locations.
Uncover More Vehicle Weight Safety Standards Today
We make it easy to get your next commercial vehicle. Feel free to schedule a test drive with our team. Then, apply for financing online to jumpstart the car-buying process. Read about the best diesel truck engines and other guides for more details. Compare GVWR vs. GAWR in further detail at Sam Lemon Automotive Group. If you have any additional questions concerning vehicle weight classifications, contact us.