How much can your van carry? Most people, when asked, can quote their GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) limit, which is the limit certified for use on the roads. But how many of us actually consider this when doing our day to day jobs?
The GVW is technically the total weight of the van, including the driver, any passengers, fuel and the load being carried. The main reason for the GVW is to ensure that the safety of the vehicle is not compromised by carrying too much. Do you just load your van to the gunwales at the start of the day and head out? This could cause huge problems, not just for you and your business but for other road users.
Heavy loads can affect the handling and braking capabilities of any vehicle and this problem can be multiplied if the vehicle is larger than an average car. In addition, if you overload your van while packing it, its performance will be affected, and that could hit you where it hurts – in your pocket! Speed and fuel consumption will be hit if the van is overloaded – and putting too much in the back can also put too much strain on the axles and the tyres. Can you really afford for your vehicle to be off the road, clocking up hefty repair bills?
Always check what you have on board before you start the day's work: do you really need all that equipment? Too many of us leave things in the back of the van "just in case" or, in reality, because it is easier to leave them in the van, rather than putting them away! And how much does all your equipment weigh? Only take what you need with you, and you can ensure that your van has many more potential miles in it.
