Definition:
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the amount recommended by the manufacturer as the upper limit to the operational weight for a motor vehicle and any cargo (human or other) to be carried. The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the sum of all GVWRs for each unit in a combination unit motor vehicle. Thus for single-unit trucks there is no difference between the GVWR and the GCWR. For combination trucks (truck tractors pulling a single semi-trailer, truck tractors pulling double or triple trailers, trucks pulling trailers, and trucks pulling other motor vehicles) the GCWR is the total of the GVWRs of all units in the combination.
Element Attributes:
Not Applicable
10,000 lbs. or less
10,001 – 26,000 lbs.
More than 26,000 lbs.
Rationale:
(**Required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration CFR 350.201.) The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes certain regulations on all single or combination-unit trucks that have a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of more than 10,000 lbs. Additional regulations are imposed on all motor vehicles with GCWRs of more than 26,000 lbs. This data element is collected at the scene because FMCSA requires reporting within 90 days.
