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UNDERSTANDING THE TERMS

Below are all the terms you need to understand so you can properly weigh your set-up

VEHICLE TARE WEIGHT = Weight of Vehicle + Oil & Fluids + 10L Fuel

VEHICLE KERB WEIGHT = Weight of Vehicle + Oil & Fluids + Full Tank of Fuel

VEHICLE PAYLOAD = GVM – Vehicle Kerb Weight

GCM = Maximum Allowable Weight of Vehicle + Caravan

GVM = Maximum Allowable Weight of Vehicle

TBW = Tow Ball Weight

ATM = Maximum Allowable Weight of Caravan

GTM = Gross Trailer Mass (ATM – TBW)

CARAVAN TARE WEIGHT = Weight of Caravan + Factory-fitted Accessories

CARAVAN PAYLOAD = ATM – Caravan Tare Weight

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How much does your set-up weigh?

When travelling on the roads, ensuring that your vehicle and caravan weights are within the manufacturers specifications is important for several reasons.

  • Safety: Carrying a load that exceeds the manufacturer's specifications can compromise the safety of your vehicle and caravan. It can lead to reduced braking efficiency, increased risk of accidents, and difficulty in maintaining control, especially in emergency situations. Overloaded vehicles are more prone to accidents, which can result in injuries or fatalities.

  • Legal Compliance: Australian road laws set specific weight limits for vehicles and trailers. Exceeding these limits can lead to fines, demerit points on your license, or even vehicle impoundment. Law enforcement agencies routinely conduct checks on vehicles, and non-compliance can result in legal consequences.

  • Vehicle Wear and Tear: Excessive weight can accelerate the wear and tear on your vehicle's engine, transmission, suspension, and tyres. This can lead to costly repairs and maintenance, reducing the longevity of your vehicle.

  • Insurance Coverage: In the event of an accident, insurance companies may deny a claim or reduce coverage if it's determined that the vehicle was overloaded. Staying within manufacturer specifications can help ensure that your insurance coverage remains valid.

  • Towing Stability: Caravans and trailers have weight limits for a reason - they are designed to be towed safely within those limits. Exceeding these limits can affect the stability of the caravan and the towing vehicle, making it more susceptible to swaying or fishtailing, which can be dangerous on the road.

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