What is payload? How to calculate it
Tuesday 27th October 2026
Payload might sound like something that only concerns drivers of commercial vehicles, such as vans or HGVs, so it may surprise you to learn that every car has one, and it can be easier to reach its limit that you might expect.
Our guide explains what a payload is, how to work it out and what happens if you exceed it.
What is a payload on a vehicle?
A payload is the total weight a vehicle can legally and safely carry in addition to its own weight. It includes the weight of people, luggage, tools and anything bolted on after the vehicle leaves the factory.
The payload limit is set by manufacturers by testing the chassis, suspension, brakes and tyres together. Staying within the payload limit ensures that those parts continue to work inside their designed range.
Payload, kerb weight and gross vehicle weight: What’s the difference?
Kerb weight and gross vehicle weight are both terms that relate to payload, but what do they actually mean? And what is the difference between them.
Kerb weight: This is the weight of your vehicle when unloaded but ready to drive. You will find reference to this weight in your vehicle’s handbook. It typically includes the bodywork, engine, fluids and a fuel tank that is around 90% full. Some manufacturers also include a 75 kg driver, so check what your vehicle handbook states to be sure.
Gross vehicle weight (GVW): This) is the maximum weight of the vehicle when fully loaded. Official guidance also uses the term maximum authorised mass (MAM) or maximum permissible weight. These terms refer to the weight of the vehicle, its occupants, its load and its fuel.
Payload: This term refers to any additional load not included in the kerb weight, such as the combined weight of any passengers, luggage, shopping, tools or camping equipment.
How to calculate payload?
It’s relatively simple to calculate the payload, use this simple formula:
Gross vehicle weight minus kerb weight equals payload
For example:
- GVW: 1,800 kg
- Kerb weight 1,35 0kg
- Payload: 1,800 kg – 1,350 kg = 450 kg
This means you (if you’re not included in the manufactures listed kerb weight), your passengers and anything you need to transport must be less than 450 kg as to not exceed the payload. For example, three passengers at 75 kg each add 225 kg. A boot containing 120 kg of luggage brings the total to 345 kg. That leaves 105 kg for anything else, such as a roof box or bike rack. If you have a lot to transport, make sure to check the manufacturers instructions to ensure it isn’t too heavy for your vehicle.
Where do you find your vehicles weight figures?
A plate or sticker either under your bonnet or inside the driver’s side door frame should list the GVW and the maximum weight for each axle, but you’ll need to calculate the payload yourself. Your vehicle handbook should list the kerb weight, GVW and the maximum towing weights too.
What is the difference between payload and towing capacity?
While the payload is the weight that your vehicle carries on its chassis, towing capacity is the maximum weight of the trailer or caravan your vehicle can pull. The two figures interact as the nose weight counts towards the payload.
What happens if you exceed your payload?
An overloaded vehicle can be dangerous. Police and the DVSA can stop and weigh any vehicle if they suspect it is overloaded. Some of the physical effects include:
- An increase in braking distance
- Your car becomes tougher to handle with a slower steering response and more body roll in corners.
- Your tyres run hotter and wear faster, running the risk of a blowout
- Suspension and brake components wear faster
An insurer can also refuse a claim if an overloaded vehicle is involved in a collision.
Worried you have overloaded your vehicle?
Regular overloading can put extra strain on tyres, brakes and suspension. At Formula One Autocentres, our technicians can inspect your vehicle and let you know if anything needs attention. Find your local Formula One Autocentres branch to book a check today.
