what is payload in vehicle Page 4

Payload is the weight your vehicle can carry on board—people, dogs, eskies, toolboxes—the lot, not counting the vehicle itself.

The simple maths: Payload = GVM − kerb weight, where GVM is the maximum legal weight of vehicle plus load, and kerb weight is the vehicle ready to drive with fluids and no passengers or cargo.

It also leans on axle ratings and tyre load limits, so a roof tent and four mates might be legal in total but still upset the rear axle like a dodgy curry.

Overloading hurts braking, handling, and insurance claims; the constabulary are not known for their sense of humour here.

Example: if a ute’s GVM is 3,200 kg and kerb is 2,100 kg, payload is 1,100 kg—minus aftermarket bullbars, trays, and anything else you’ve bolted on.

Consult official documentation for exact figures.