Going over your GVM doesn't just affect your suspension - it can:

Void your vehicle, tray and suspension warranties

Leave you uninsured in an accident

Seriously reduce braking and handling performance

Put you, your team, and others at risk

Even if you're upgraded your suspension or added airbags, you're not legal unless your GVM has been formally upgraded and certified.

Let's Break it Down - In Plain English

Kerb Weight

Kerb weight is the weight of the vehicle as it leaves the factory.

It includes fuel and standard fluids.

It does not include people cargo or accessories.

This is the starting weight of the vehicle.

Payload

Payload is everything you add to the vehicle after it leaves the factory.

Payload includes

The driver and any passengers

Trays, canopies and accessories

Tools, equipment, gear and cargo

The more you add the less payload you have left.

GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass)

GVM is the total weight of the vehicle when fully loaded.

GVM is made up of Kerb Weight plus Payload

If the total weight of the vehicle is greater than the GVM then the vehicle is overloaded and not legal.

What about Axle Weights?

Your GVM is important - but so is how that weight is distributed.

Each axle has its own limit, and it's easier than you think to overload the rear axle without hitting your full GVM.

Add in a canopy, drawers, a water tank, spare tyre, fridge, recovery gear, and a few hundred kilos of tools - you're there.

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It Adds Up - Fast

Here's a rough look at how quickly weight stacks up:

Item & Weight (Approx.)

Steel tray & canopy 250–300kg

200Ah lithium battery 25kg

Water tank (50L) 50kg

Long-range fuel tank (130L) 130kg

Tools (plumber/sparky) 100–200kg+

Driver + 1 passenger 150–180kg

Fridge + slides 40kg

Drawers 80–120kg

Roof rack & RTT 80–100kg

Compressor & recovery gear 40–60kg

Total? Well over 800kg — and that’s before you’ve added weekend gear or a full tank of fuel and water.

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Trade-Specific Weight Loads

Trade Typical Loadout Weight

Electricians - 100–200kg tools + parts

Plumbers - 150–250kg incl. copper, PVC

Builders - 300kg+ incl. timber, saws

HVAC Techs - 200 – 300kg incl. units/tools

Weekend Warriors - 200 – 400kg adventure gear

Even a modest work setup can put you over your payload before breakfast.

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Can I Increase my GVM?

Yes - but only through an approval GVM upgrade with certified suspension and paperwork..

Common GVM Upgrade Providers:

- Pedders GVM+ kits

- ARB/Old Man Emu GVM upgrade packages

These aren’t just heavy-duty springs - they’re tested, engineered, and legally certified to raise your GVM. They must be installed by a licensed facility, with compliance plate and paperwork for WOF and insurance purposes.

No certification = no legal upgrade.

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FAQs

Q: I’ve added air bags or heavy-duty springs — am I legal?
A: No. You can only carry more if your GVM is formally upgraded and certified.

Q: What happens if I go over GVM?
A: You could void your insurance, damage your suspension, overheat your brakes — and worst case, hurt someone.

Q: How do I know if I’m over?
A: Visit a weighbridge with your full load, or talk to us — we can help you assess it properly.

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Our Take

At M2, we’ve seen it all - bent chassis, failed shocks, denied insurance claims.
Don’t risk it. Know your GVM, weigh your setup, and if you’re running close - talk to us about a certified GVM upgrade.

Your ute is built for hard work - but only if it’s built smart.

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