We are often asked about van and vehicle weights, particularly what the abbreviations mean. Here is a quick run-down of each.
Kerb Weight
Also called Tare Mass or Kerb Mass, Kerb Weight is the weight of your tow vehicle when initially delivered by the manufacturer (with no occupants, ‘cargo’ or other accessories) and will be located in the owner’s manual.
Gross Vehicular Mass (GVM)
GVM is the kerb weight plus any payload and is the maximum weight at which your vehicle can be operated. Operating a vehicle over its GVM is illegal and can void your manufacturer’s warranty (and also possibly your insurance). You can usually find your vehicle’s GVM on the vehicle compliance plate.
Tow Ball Mass (TBM)
TBM or Ball Weight is the maximum weight that you can place on the tow ball and is the difference between when the caravan or trailer is on and when it is off the your vehicle.
ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) is the total mass of the caravan or trailer when carrying the maximum load recommended by the manufacturer. This includes the tow ball mass plus whatever you add as a payload.
Gross Trailer Mass (GTM)
GTM is the total allowable mass as recommended by the van manufacturer when it is fully loaded (including anything you add for example, water or luggage) that can be supported by the axles and wheels of the van. This does not include any weight supported by the tow ball.
Gross Combined Mass (GCM)
GCM is the total mass of the tow vehicle plus your van, and includes everything that has been loaded into the vehicle as well as the van.
This article has been provided by our mates at Workabout Australia
You can find more information at: www.workaboutaustralia.com.au
