Inside this newsletterπ
- Why your caravan weights matter more than you think
- How to weigh your van at a public weighbridge (step by step)
- The difference between GVM, ATM and tow ball weight
- Where to find a weighbridge near you
- Join our new Skool community!β
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Hello!
We've got a new van coming in July β which means we've been knee-deep in weights, limits, and paperwork. Fun times. π
It reminded me how confusing this stuff can be when you're starting out, and really, even when you're not.
So this week I'd like to recap on a proper step-by-step guide on how to weigh your caravan at a public weighbridge β including a calculator you can bookmark and use while you're standing there (also in the Skool community)
Quick question, would you like our weekly destination emails too? We cover the unique, scenic, adventurous locations and interesting facts.
The weights you actually need to know
Before you even get to a weighbridge, it helps to know what you're looking for. Here's the plain English version:
- GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) β the maximum your tow vehicle can weigh when fully loaded, including passengers, fuel, and gear. It's on your vehicle's compliance plate. Don't exceed it.
- ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) β the maximum your caravan can weigh when fully loaded, including everything you've packed into it. Find it on your van's compliance plate.
- GCM (Gross Combined Mass) β the maximum allowable weight of your tow vehicle and caravan combined. This one catches people out more than any other.
- Tow ball downforce β the weight pressing down on your tow ball from the caravan. Too little and the van can sway. Too much and it overloads your vehicle's rear axle. There's a sweet spot, and it matters.
Know your weights
Most people don't weigh their van until something goes wrong. Don't be that person.
Getting your weights right means peace of mind on the road. Getting them wrong means unnecessary stress on your rig, potential legal issues, and β in a worst case β a dangerous situation for your family.
Here's the quick version of how to do it at a public weighbridge:
- Step 1 β Drive only the tow vehicle onto the weighbridge (caravan wheels off). Record that weight β it's your GVM.
- Step 2 β Lower the jockey wheel, unhitch the car. The difference between the two readings is your tow ball weight (downforce).
- Step 3 β Now weigh the whole rig together β that's your GCM. Check it against your vehicle's rated limit.
Do it loaded. Do it with the family in the car. That's the only number that actually matters.
We've also got a caravan weight calculator built into the article β bookmark it before your next weighbridge visit and use it on the spot.
β How to Weigh Your Caravan at a Weighbridgeβ
Top blogs this week:
We're at Skool!
Have you heard about Skool? It's been something that I (Margie) have been looking into for a while - it's a cross between Facebook, an online course, a collection of PDFs and videos - all in a safe, secure area. Basically, it's where I can store all of our free resources so you can access them easily.
It also has our YouTube explainer-style videos organised, blogs with Tim's great info and more in one place. It's way easier to chat with our community. I'll still be active on Facebook, but the comments are easier to reply to on Skool - you'll see what I mean!
I do have a paid option, which will include our premium guides and planners that we've spent ages researching and putting together, so if you join the paid option, you'll get access to those guides and trainings too. (no pressure - everyone is welcome) Just a heads up, if you join on a monthly option, it is in $US. Just a Skool thing. :)
βCome and join us hereβ
Have a lovely day
Tim & Margie
PS β If you would like Tim's maintenance schedule, click here to find out more. You can also find this in Skool (premium) β
Come and join us: Plan.Save.Travel! on Skool π
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