How much weight can a 2017 Dodge Caravan hold?
The payload capacity of a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is typically about 1,200 to 1,500 pounds, depending on trim and equipment. This figure represents the maximum combined weight of passengers and cargo that the van can safely carry, not counting fuel. To know your exact limit, check the door jamb sticker on your vehicle for the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and curb weight, then subtract curb weight from GVWR.
In other words, the amount you can carry depends on how much the van weighs when it's empty (curb weight) and the factory-approved maximum weight the chassis is designed to support (GVWR). Variations in trim level, installed options, roof racks, and hitch equipment can shift the usable payload within that overall range.
Payload, GVWR and how they are defined
Payload capacity is the maximum allowable weight of everything loaded in the vehicle—people, cargo, and any extras—while GVWR is the total weight the vehicle is certified to carry, including its own weight and payload. Curb weight is the vehicle’s weight without passengers or cargo. The usable payload is GVWR minus curb weight.
Why payload varies by trim
Different trim levels and options add weight (for example, entertainment systems, larger wheels, or all-wheel drive), which reduces the payload available for passengers and cargo. Heavier equipment lowers the amount you can carry safely even if the GVWR remains the same.
Typical payload range for the 2017 Grand Caravan
- Payload capacity generally falls in the 1,200–1,500 pounds range, depending on trim and equipment.
- GVWR is typically just over 6,000 pounds, with curb weights around 4,500–4,900 pounds, which together establish the practical payload window.
- Real-world payload depends on the number of passengers and the weight of cargo, plus any additional loads such as roof racks or hitch-mounted accessories.
For precise numbers, consult your vehicle’s door jamb sticker or the owner's manual, which list GVWR and curb weight for your specific configuration.
How to calculate payload for your van
Use these steps to determine the exact payload limit for your 2017 Grand Caravan and ensure safe loading.
- Find the GVWR and curb weight on the driver’s door jamb placard or in the owner’s manual.
- Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to obtain the maximum payload capacity.
- Sum the weight of all occupants and all cargo to see how close you are to the limit.
- Consider additional loads (like roof cargo, hitch-mounted items) that can affect safe payload even if you’re under GVWR.
Tip: If you regularly carry heavy loads, you may want to opt for lighter equipment or reduce passenger count to maintain safe handling, braking, and tire performance.
Safety and practical loading tips
Safe loading isn’t just about staying under a number—it’s about how weight is distributed and how it affects vehicle dynamics. Here are key considerations:
- Keep heavy items low and centered to maintain stable handling and braking.
- Avoid overloading the roof; roof cargo does not count toward payload in the same way but can drastically affect center of gravity and performance.
- Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressures for the load and check the tire load ratings when carrying heavy payloads.
Being mindful of payload ensures safer driving and reduces wear on tires, suspension, and brakes.
Summary
For the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan, the maximum payload typically ranges from about 1,200 to 1,500 pounds, depending on trim and options. To determine your exact capacity, locate the GVWR and curb weight on the door jamb placard and subtract curb weight from GVWR. Always account for the actual number of passengers and the weight of cargo, and distribute weight evenly to maintain safe handling and braking.
How much weight can you carry in a Dodge Caravan?
A Dodge Caravan can carry a maximum payload of around 1,540 pounds and has a maximum towing capacity of approximately 3,600 pounds. This payload capacity is the weight of everything inside the vehicle, including people, cargo, and optional equipment. The towing capacity is for pulling a trailer.
Payload capacity
- Maximum Payload: Up to 1,540 pounds for recent models.
- What it includes: This is the total weight of passengers and cargo. Be sure to subtract the weight of all passengers, any accessories, and fluids to determine the remaining payload capacity.
Towing capacity
- Maximum Towing Capacity: Up to 3,600 pounds for recent models.
- What it includes: This is the weight of the trailer being towed. You must subtract the weight of the trailer, and the tow dolly or hitch, from this capacity.
- Important Note: Be aware that the maximum towing capacity is for the specific vehicle configuration and may be reduced by the payload you are already carrying. For example, if you have a heavy load of passengers and cargo, your towing capacity will be reduced.
- For example: A 3,600-pound trailer would be too heavy for a Caravan if you are also carrying 5 people, as the weight of the passengers and gear will be subtracted from the total capacity.
- Rule of Thumb: Some sources suggest staying around 80% of the maximum towing capacity to be safe and to avoid stressing the vehicle's transmission, especially if you are towing frequently.
Other important weights
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): This is the maximum operating weight of the vehicle as specified by the manufacturer, including the curb weight and the payload. For example, the GVWR for a 2013 model is 6,050 pounds, and the curb weight is around 4,510 pounds, which leaves a payload capacity of 1,540 pounds.
- Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): This is the maximum operating weight of the fully loaded vehicle and the fully loaded trailer. For example, a 2010 Caravan had a GCWR of 7,000 pounds.
How much can a Grand Caravan carry?
With both rows folded, the Grand Caravan provides over 140 cubic feet of cargo room—enough to carry furniture, bikes, or even sheets of plywood from your next Renos project at Home Hardware.
Can you fit a sheet of plywood in a Dodge Grand Caravan?
I meticulously measured my dependable Dodge Grand Caravan, and found that I would, in fact, be able to fit everything I needed, albeit with two 12 foot boards getting pretty close to the windshield. I proudly loaded up my lumber caddy with boards, plywood panels, concrete, everything in one go.
How much weight can a 2017 Dodge Caravan carry?
Dimensions
| Height | 68.9 in. |
|---|---|
| Angle of departure | 18.5 degrees |
| Curb weight | 4,510 lbs. |
| Maximum towing capacity | 3,600 lbs. |
| Gross weight | 6,050 lbs. |
