Key Terms
GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass): Maximum loaded weight of the vehicle including passengers, fuel, and cargo. Payload: GVM minus the vehicle's kerb (empty) weight — what you can add.
Braked towing capacity: Maximum trailer weight with its own braking system. GCM (Gross Combined Mass): Maximum total weight of vehicle + trailer.
Why It Matters
Exceeding payload or towing limits causes: longer stopping distances, suspension and drivetrain damage, tyre blowouts, voided insurance, and fines up to $1,000 in WA.
Common Mistakes
Adding a bullbar, roof rack, and tray body to a ute can consume 200-400kg of payload before you've loaded anything. Check your vehicle's compliance plate (usually on the driver's door jamb) for the factory GVM.
GVM Upgrades
Aftermarket GVM upgrades ($2,000-5,000) increase the legal payload of your vehicle through upgraded suspension and engineering certification. Essential for heavy-duty ute users.