How much weight should I put in my trunk?
The safe trunk load isn’t a fixed number; you should keep cargo within your vehicle’s payload capacity and within the limits of the rear axle and tires. In practice, check your labels and load accordingly.
Know your vehicle’s limits
To determine a safe trunk load, you need to understand the numbers the manufacturer provides. These figures govern how much weight the car can carry in total, including passengers, cargo, and fuel, and how much each axle can safely support.
- Find the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) on the door jamb sticker or in the owner's manual. GVWR is the total safe weight of the vehicle when loaded; GAWR refers to the maximum weight on each axle.
- Calculate payload capacity if you can: payload ≈ GVWR − curb weight (the weight of the car when it’s empty). If you don’t know curb weight, use the official payload figure if your vehicle provides one on the label or manual.
- Account for occupants. Subtract the combined weight of all passengers and the driver from the payload to determine how much cargo weight you can carry in the trunk safely.
- Check tire load ratings. Each tire has a maximum load limit; exceeding tires’ capacity can compromise handling and safety even if you stay under GVWR.
In practice, passenger cars often have payloads ranging from roughly 500 to 1,000 pounds, depending on size and configuration. Always verify the exact numbers for your model, since exceeding payload can degrade braking, steering, and suspension.
How to load your trunk safely
Once you know the limit, follow best practices to keep the trunk load safe and the vehicle handling predictable.
- Distribute weight evenly across the trunk floor and keep heavier items low and centered. Front-weighting the trunk can help maintain balance, especially if you’ve got a front-wheel-drive car.
- Secure items with straps, nets, or organizers to prevent shifting during acceleration, braking, or cornering.
- Avoid stacking items tall or loose; use bins or bins with lids to minimize movement and noise.
- Keep the spare tire, jack, and emergency gear accessible and unobstructed; do not rely on a heavy cargo bundle to block access.
- Reassess the load after driving a short distance. If the car feels heavy, unstable, or the brakes feel off, reduce weight until handling returns to normal.
Following these steps helps ensure the trunk load remains within safe limits and maintains your vehicle’s handling, braking, and tire life.
Special considerations for regular heavy loads
If you routinely haul equipment, gear, or multiple passengers, you’ll want to plan ahead and consider options beyond maxing the trunk alone.
Alternatives and planning tips
Consider using roof racks, a hitch-mounted cargo carrier, or a trailer for extra capacity. If you frequently ride near the payload limit, consult your vehicle’s dealer or a mechanic to ensure suspension and tires are appropriate for the duty cycle and to discuss any recommended upgrades.
Summary
Safe trunk loading hinges on knowing your vehicle’s payload capacity and axle/tire limits. Always start by checking the GVWR/GAWR and calculating how much weight you and your cargo can add. Distribute weight evenly, secure items, and avoid exceeding tire or axle limits. For frequent heavy loads, explore alternatives such as cargo carriers or trailers and seek professional guidance to maintain safety and performance.
