Understanding Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings and terms

Cargo Weight Rating (CWR)

The value specified by the vehicle manufacturer as the cargo-carrying capacity of a vehicle in pounds, exclusive of (minus) the weight of occupants, computed as 150 pounds times the number of designated seating positions.


Center of gravity (CG)

Point where the mass of a body isconcentrated and if suspended at that point would balance front and rear.


Curb weight

Weight of a vehicle without driver, passengers or cargo – but including fuel, coolant and other items of standard equipment.


Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.


Combined Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (CGVWR)

The value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of the vehicle and loaded trailer.


Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The value specified by the vehicle manufacturer as the load-carrying capacity of a single-axle system measured at the tire-ground interfaces.


Payload Rating

The maximum allowable load (including the weight of the driver and all occupants) that the vehicle can carry based on all factory-installed equipment on the vehicle.


Weight Statement

The posted weight on the rear of a camper is the weight of the model camper with full water and propane tanks, without options.  To find the estimated weight of the model with options, use the Get A Quote function of this website.