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How do you read a transit weight plate?

A transit weight plate is a device used to measure the weight of a vehicle or cargo as it passes over a scale. Understanding how to properly read and interpret the information on a transit weight plate is crucial for ensuring accurate weight measurements and compliance with transportation regulations. In this article, we'll provide a detailed guide on how to read a transit weight plate.


Understanding the Transit Weight Plate


A transit weight plate typically displays the following information:



  • Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) or Gross Combination Weight (GCW)

  • Axle Weights

  • Tare Weight (the weight of the empty vehicle)

  • Net Weight (the weight of the cargo or load)


The GVW or GCW represents the total weight of the vehicle, including the cargo or load. Axle weights are the individual weights of each axle on the vehicle. Tare weight is the weight of the empty vehicle, and net weight is the weight of the cargo or load.


Reading the Transit Weight Plate


To read a transit weight plate, follow these steps:



  1. Locate the GVW or GCW: This is the total weight of the vehicle and its cargo or load. It's typically the largest number displayed on the plate.

  2. Identify the Axle Weights: Look for the individual weights of each axle on the vehicle. These are usually listed in the order they appear on the vehicle, from front to back.

  3. Find the Tare Weight: This is the weight of the empty vehicle, without any cargo or load.

  4. Calculate the Net Weight: Subtract the Tare Weight from the GVW or GCW to determine the Net Weight, which is the weight of the cargo or load.


By understanding the information provided on a transit weight plate, you can ensure that your vehicle is within the legal weight limits and that your cargo or load is being accurately measured.

What does T350 mean on a transit?


3.5t Gross Vehicle Weight
A quick translation into plain English would read as:
Ford Transit Commercial Van, Model T350 (3.5t Gross Vehicle Weight), long-wheelbase, high-roof with Euro-5 classification, (European emission standards define the acceptable limits for exhaust emissions of vehicles).



What is the difference between a 250 and 350 transit?


Here's a comparison to help you make an informed decision: Payload Capacity: The Ford Transit 250 has a lower payload capacity compared to the Transit 350. The Transit 350 is designed to handle heavier loads and is an ideal choice for businesses that require frequent hauling of bulky items.



How do you decode a VIN plate?


Decoding your VIN

  1. The first character tells you where in the world the vehicle was built.
  2. The second character denote the manufacturer.
  3. The third character tells you the vehicle type or division.
  4. The fourth through the eighth characters tell you the vehicle brand, body style, engine size and type, model, and series.



How to read a Ford Transit VIN plate?


How to Read a VIN

  1. Position. VIN Position Description.
  2. Position 1-3. World Manufacturer Identifier.
  3. Position 4. Restraint System Type (Passenger Cars) or Brake Type and GVWR Class (Trucks and Vans)
  4. Position 5-7. Line and Series Body Type.
  5. Position 8. Engine Type.
  6. Position 9. Check Digit.
  7. Position 10. Model Year.
  8. Position 11.



What is the difference between transit 310 and 350?


Transit 310 vans get a payload capacity of 993kg to 1136kg. Transit 330 has a payload capacity of 1239kg to 1337kg. Transit 350 vans get a payload capacity of 1277kg to 1472kg.



How do I tell how much my trailer weighs?


You can find a trailer's weight using a vehicle scale or on the VIN label.



How do you read a weight plate?


The VIN plate will display either 3 or 4 sets of weights.

  1. – The top figure 'A' is the gross vehicle weight, the Maximum Allowable Mass (MAM) of the vehicle including occupants, fuel and payload.
  2. – The second figure 'B' is the gross train weight, this is the combined maximum allowable mass of the vehicle and trailer.



How do you read a trailer weight tag?


It should list the Max Capacity, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for a given tire size and inflation pressure. The capacity plate on your trailer should look similar to this example. Multiply the GAWR by the number of axles to get the GVWR.



What do the numbers mean on a Ford Transit?


80, 90 etc is the bhp. 280, 350 etc is the payload. yeah thats right 75 80 90 100 125 is the power 280 300 350 ect is the payload.



How do you read a Ford weight plate?


If you look at the VIN plate it has 3 or 4 rows of numbers. The first row is for the Gross Vehicle Weight, the Maximum Allowable Mass (MAM) of the vehicle including occupants, fuel and payload. The second row is for the Gross Train Weight, the combined maximum allowable mass of the vehicle and trailer.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.