When it comes to determining the actual payload capability of SUVs and trucks, the information published on the Big Three's Web sites is confusing and can be misleading. And most people don't realize the TREAD Act sticker on the door pillar gives them a specific payload rating for the vehicle based on the specific options/configuration of the vehicle. If people don't understand the data, it's likely they are overloading their trucks. That would be a big safety issue.
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Dear Reader,
We agree--the TREAD Act sticker does reflect a specific truck or SUV's actual payload capacity and is a quick, accurate way to learn about your vehicle's payload. Unfortunately, that only helps people with trucks new enough to come with that data (the act was signed into law in November 2000). People with older trucks and SUVs would have to determine the actual payload capacity themselves, by looking up the vehicle's GVWR and subtracting the actual curb weight of their specific trucks. This might mean paying for a trip to the truck scales, but that minor expense will be worth it in the long run.
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--Truck Trend
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