Car Weight Limit: What's the Maximum Load for Vehicles?
In Germany, it's crucial for drivers to be aware of their vehicle's permitted total weight to avoid fines, penalties, and accident risks. The permissible total mass and unladen mass are provided in the registration certificate Part 1, F.2 and G respectively. This includes the weight of the driver, tools, first aid kit, warning triangle, and a 90% full tank.
Overloading a motor vehicle or trailer can lead to demerit points on a driver's license and hefty fines. Fines for overloading a motor vehicle in Germany (as of 2025) are based on the degree of overloading, with higher fines for greater overloads. For instance, exceeding the permitted total weight by more than 5% can result in a fine of 10 €, while over 25% can lead to a fine of 140 € and the loss of one demerit point.
Exceeding the permitted payload by more than 5% increases accident risk, vehicle wear, and potential penalties. It's, therefore, essential to ensure that the total weight of luggage, roof or roof racks, bicycles, passengers, etc., does not exceed the determined permitted payload. Overweight vehicles may be weighed at the driver's expense and unloaded if necessary during a traffic check.
For compact class vehicles, the permitted payload is typically between 350 and 550 kilograms. However, some vehicles suitable for increased payloads include utility vehicle models such as pickups, minivans, SUVs, station wagons, and sometimes sedans.
Heavy-duty chassis cab trucks such as the RAM 3500/4500/5500 series and the Ford Super Duty F-450 are the most suitable practical vehicles for increased payload capacities and heavy loads. These trucks offer payloads exceeding 10,000 lbs and towing capacities reaching tens of thousands of pounds.
For example, the 2025 RAM Chassis Cab Series (3500, 4500, 5500) offers substantial payload and towing capacities, with payload reaching up to 11,960 lbs and towing varying by model from 25,680 lbs (3500) to 34,540 lbs (5500). The 2025 Ford Super Duty F-450 tops the list with a maximum towing capacity of up to 40,000 lbs.
For commercial hauling, Class 8 trucks serve the highest payload needs, capable of handling extremely heavy payloads (up to 60,000 lbs).
On the other hand, half-ton trucks like the Ford F-150 are less capable in payload, with maximum ratings around 3,325 lbs, but are easier to operate and park than their heavier-duty counterparts.
Vehicles with a towing capacity of 2,000 kg include the BMW iX, Polestar 3, and Volvo EX90. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro and Nissan e-NV200 Evalia also offer substantial trunk volumes of approximately 1,000 and 2,000 liters respectively.
In conclusion, adhering to the permitted total weight is crucial in Germany to ensure safety, avoid penalties, and maintain the longevity of your vehicle. Always check your vehicle's registration certificate for the permissible total mass and unladen mass, and be mindful of the weight of your passengers, luggage, and any additional accessories when on the road.
Maintaining an appropriate lifestyle should consider the weight of not only a person's vehicles but also their home-and-garden belongings and cars. For instance, opting for a compact class vehicle with a higher payload capacity like utility vehicles or heavy-duty trucks can help handle heavier loads in one's home-and-garden tasks or commercial hauling activities.
