To find the true figure of the total weight being imposed on the road by the entire loaded vehicle, you’ll need to add the axle kerb weights (ie the empty vehicle weight). These calculations will tell you how much of the payload is being imposed on the road by each axle. To find the rear axle load, subtract the front axle load from the payload. (Payload in tonnes × distance from centre of load to rear axle in metres) ÷ wheelbase length in metres = front axle load in tonnes You’ll need to calculate the gross axle weights so you can make sure your vehicle is not being overloaded. The maximum permitted gross axle weights depend on the axle spacing and tyre equipment on a vehicle. MAM – kerbside weight (total weight of vehicle and fuel, but not driver or load) = payload Maximum permitted gross axle weights You can calculate it using the maximum authorised mass (MAM) and the kerbside weight of the vehicle. The payload is the maximum load your vehicle can carry. If you’re new to driving a particular type of vehicle, ask the vehicle operator for information and training to help you operate it safely. For example, when emptying a tipper truck, you’ll need to understand how the centre of gravity of the vehicle changes when you’re tilting the vehicle body so you can make sure the vehicle will not overturn. The Official DVSA Guide to Driving Goods Vehicles also contains advice on loading.Īs a general rule, the weight of the load should be distributed evenly over the axles to increase stability of load, with the centre of gravity of the load kept as low as possible.ĭifferent types of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) may have different characteristics, which you’ll need to know about so you can drive and operate them safely. See your company loading policy for the correct procedures.

Protecting the load from the weather, theft and damageĭifferent loads will need to be positioned and secured in different ways. Whether the vehicle is suitable for carrying the load What the load is, its weight, height, shape and volume It’s vital to make sure you secure the load on your vehicle correctly to keep the vehicle stable when you’re driving.

Axle weight distribution calculator