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How much weight can a Toyota Sequoia carry?

The Sequoia’s payload capacity—the total weight of passengers, cargo, and equipment it can safely carry—is typically around 1,400 to 1,700 pounds in current models, varying by trim and options. For your exact figure, check the door jamb placard on your vehicle and consult the owner's manual.


Payload basics


Payload is the combined weight of everything loaded inside and on the vehicle. It is calculated as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) minus the curb weight. In practical terms, this means the heavier the base vehicle (due to trim, drivetrain, and options), the less room there is for people and cargo.


The following factors most influence a Sequoia’s payload capacity:



  • Drivetrain and model year, which affect curb weight and GVWR

  • Optional equipment and towing hardware, such as a heavy-duty tow package

  • Interior seating configuration and the number of passengers

  • Exterior accessories like roof racks or winches that add weight


Payload figures can vary; consult your specific vehicle’s door placard for exact numbers. The general range provides a practical guide for planning loads.


How to calculate your Sequoia's payload


To determine the payload for your Sequoia, use the vehicle’s official weight ratings and the weight of your exact build. The steps below walk you through the calculation:



  • Find the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) on the door jamb placard, in the owner's manual, or on Toyota’s official specifications.

  • Find the curb weight for your configuration (the weight of the vehicle with standard equipment and fluids, but without passengers or cargo).

  • Subtract curb weight from GVWR: Payload = GVWR − curb weight.

  • Subtract the weight of planned passengers and cargo to ensure the total remains within the payload limit.


Tip: If you routinely carry heavy loads, consider lighter options or distributing weight strategically to maximize available payload.


Payload vs towing capacity


Payload is not the same as towing capacity. Payload refers to the weight the vehicle can carry inside and on its structure, while towing capacity is the maximum weight the vehicle can pull. For the Sequoia, towing capacity varies by year and configuration, typically ranging into the seven-thousand-pound range or higher in many builds. Always verify your exact figures for your model year and option group, and never combine payload with towing weight beyond the GCWR (gross combined weight rating).


Practical guidance for owners


Follow these rules of thumb to stay within safe limits and preserve performance and braking distance:



  • Distribute weight evenly and keep heavier items low to the floor to maintain stability.

  • Limit the number of passengers or reduce overloading with cargo if you’re near the payload ceiling.

  • Be mindful of roof-top cargo; roof racks and boxes add weight and raise the center of gravity, reducing usable payload.

  • Regularly review tire load ratings and inflate accordingly; overloaded tires can lead to unsafe handling.


Adhering to payload guidelines helps maintain safe handling, effective braking, and the longevity of the Sequoia when used for family trips, camping, or light-duty hauling.


Summary


The Toyota Sequoia’s payload capacity generally sits around 1,400 to 1,700 pounds for current models, though exact numbers depend on trim, drivetrain, and optional equipment. Always confirm the precise rating on the door placard and calculate payload using GVWR minus curb weight. Remember that payload is separate from towing capacity, and both are guided by GCWR. With careful planning and proper load distribution, the Sequoia can handle a substantial amount of cargo and passengers safely.

How much weight can you put in a Sequoia?


2025 Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity​ by Configuration
Blending gas and electric power, the Sequoia delivers a max towing capacity of 9,520 pounds1 and a max payload of 1,730 pounds.



What is the payload capacity of the 2025 Toyota Sequoia?


1,730 pounds2
Built from lightweight, high-strength materials and hailed as a true towing titan, the 2025 Toyota Sequoia SUV features a hybrid powertrain that seamlessly blends gas and electric power to deliver an impressive maximum towing capacity of up to 9,520 pounds1 and a maximum payload rating of 1,730 pounds2.



What are the bad years to avoid Toyota Sequoia?


On the other side, the worst years to avoid for Toyota Sequoia are 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2008. This was because of the rusting condition, brakes, and transmission problems in it.



What is the load capacity of the Toyota Sequoia?


But its payload specs are just as impressive as the 2025 Toyota Sequoia towing capacity. Let's take a look at the numbers: 2025 Toyota Sequoia SR5 Maximum Payload Capacity – 1,730 pounds.


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.