Motor Homes:

GVWR for motor homes is the maximum total vehicle weight that the tires, wheels, suspension, and other chassis components of the RV can safely carry as determined by the RV manufacturer. The GVWR of motorized vehicles must not exceed the total GAWR (gross axle weight rating) of the axles. The RV manufacturer has the option of reducing the chassis GVWR below the GVWR determined by the chassis manufacturer — but cannot increase the chassis GVWR.

You must never exceed the RV manufacturer's GVWR because, by doing so, you may be voiding any warranties if the chassis is damaged. Even worse, an overloaded vehicle is generally considered illegal and, if proven to be so, may be in violation of insurance policy terms. Still worse, the driver of an overloaded vehicle may be held liable for all claims if involved in an accident.

Towables:

GVWR for towables includes the maximum load-carrying capacity of the tires, wheels, suspension, and chassis components of the RV as determined by the RV manufacturer. For travel trailers, the GVWR should be (at most) the total of GAWRs plus the hitch capacity. The RV manufacturer has the option of reducing the chassis GVWR below the GVWR determined by the chassis manufacturer — but cannot increase the chassis GVWR.

You must never exceed the RV manufacturer's GVWR because, by doing so, you may be voiding any warranties if the chassis is damaged. Even worse, an overloaded vehicle is generally considered illegal and, if proven to be so, may be in violation of insurance policy terms. Still worse, the driver of an overloaded vehicle may be held liable for all claims if involved in an accident.




Back to Ratings Terms