Where do Cargo Ratings Come From and Why?

[Peter417]

Where do Cargo Ratings Come From and Why? I am looking for an in depth answer, preferably from someone in the industry or familiar with the industry. I am not looking for answers like "on the door sticker" or "from the manufacturer".

[Dennis C]

Payload and cargo capacity is determined by subtracting the actual weight of a vehicle from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. This is why trucks with more options have a lower payload and cargo capacity than those with fewer options. I think the real question is how does a manufacturer determine GVWR? It’s generally tied to the weakest link in the system. This could be the maximum axle weight rating, it could be the weight rating of the tires, etc. Interestingly, you often see scenarios where the combination of weight ratings for the front and rear axles exceeds the GVWR.

Like you, I’d like to hear more about what goes into these calculations and limits, and in particular how GVWR is determined for each vehicle.

[Profxd]

What determines GVWR? Targeted vehicle class, FMVSS, manufactures standards for durability, stability, and handling. There is no definitive answer/formula used to determine WCC/GVWR.