What is vehicle payload?
Payload is the total weight your vehicle is rated to carry – people and cargo together.
What counts towards payload
- The driver and every passenger
- Tools, equipment, child seats and accessories already on board
- Anything you load for the trip, including bags, pavers and containers
- Accessories fitted to the vehicle, such as roof bars or bed liners
Where to find your payload limit
Open the driver's door and look for the Tire and Loading Information label on the door frame. It typically states "The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed X". That figure applies to your specific vehicle, including its trim and fitted equipment, so it is more reliable than a figure quoted for the model in general.
Payload vs. towing capacity
Payload is what the vehicle carries. Towing capacity is what it can pull behind it. They are separate ratings, and a high towing figure does not mean a high payload figure. Read the comparison.
Check your load
Once you have your payload figure, run it through the calculator with your passengers and the load you're planning.