Toolbox Essentials: Gross Vehicle Weight Ratio
Use these formulas to calculate & further understand this jobsite mainstay
Time and again, Construction Business Owner is your source for understanding your gross vehicle weight ratio (GVWR). Below are simple formulas for your calculating your GVWR, as well as links to two popular articles on the subject from CBO.
This formula is considered the GVWR on some manufacturer’s trailers.
GAWR = sum of all tire capacities, or the sum of all axle capacities
But other manufactures might use this formula for GVWR:
GVWR = Trailer Capacity + Trailer Weight
Payload capacity can be determined by one of these two formulas:
1. GVWR – Trailer Weight = Payload Capacity
2. GVWR – Trailer Weight + Tongue Transfer = Payload Capacity
- Use this simple infographic to understand the basics of gross weight vehicle rating.
- “Understand Your Trailer Gross Vehicle Weight Rating,” featured in our February 2011 issue, by Shane Zeppelin with Towmaster Inc.
OUR DIGITAL PARTNERS
RELATED ARTICLES
What Construction Fleets Need to Know About PC-12
Unpacking the upcoming changes starting Jan. 1, 2027
Compact Equipment Is Evolving as a Strategic Fleet Asset
Evaluating equipment through the lens of workforce effectiveness, fleet performance & long-term…
Suicide Prevention Belongs in Every Contractor’s Culture
Construction safety cannot end at the jobsite
How In-Person Moments Drive Discovery & Win Business in the Trades
Smaller firms can cultivate a face-to-face advantage