GVW Weight Decal Requirements in Ontario — Complete Highway Traffic Act Guide
Commercial vehicles operating in Ontario must display their Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) on both sides of the vehicle. Here's exactly what the Highway Traffic Act requires, where to place your decals, and how to avoid fines up to $500.
What is GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)?
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the maximum weight your vehicle and cargo are designed to carry, as determined by the manufacturer. This includes:
- ✓ Vehicle curb weight (empty weight)
- ✓ Maximum cargo capacity
- ✓ Passengers
- ✓ Fuel, fluids, and equipment
For trucks with trailers, you'll need to display the Gross Combination Weight (GCW)instead — the combined weight of truck + trailer when fully loaded.
Who Needs to Display GVW Decals?
- All commercial motor vehicles registered in Ontario with a registered gross weight over 4,500 kg
- Trucks, tractors, trailers, and buses used for commercial purposes
- Vehicles hauling goods or passengers for compensation
- Vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP)
Exemptions: Personal use vehicles under 4,500 kg, farm vehicles within 25 km of the farm, and certain emergency vehicles.
GVW Display Requirements — HTA s.109
Where to Place GVW Decals
✅ Recommended Placement
- • Below company name lettering
- • On cab door (mid-height)
- • Front of box/cargo area
- • Visible when doors closed
❌ Avoid These Locations
- • Rear of vehicle only
- • Inside cab/cargo area
- • Bumpers or mudflaps
- • Any area that folds/opens
Penalties for Missing or Incorrect GVW Display
Set Fine: $110
Operating a commercial vehicle without proper GVW display results in a $110 set fineunder the Highway Traffic Act. Repeated violations or obstructed markings can result in out-of-service orders and fines up to $500.
Enforcement: MTO enforcement officers regularly inspect commercial vehicles at CVOR facility inspections, roadside checks, and weigh stations.
GVW Decal Sizes & Formats
Our GVW weight decals meet HTA requirements and come in multiple sizes to fit any vehicle:
2" (50mm)
Minimum legal size for small trucks
3" (75mm)
Most popular for cube vans & medium trucks
4" (100mm)
Large transport trucks & tractor-trailers
Order Compliant GVW Decals
We produce GVW weight decals using premium 7-year vinyl with high-contrast lettering. Custom weights, available in metric or imperial. Ships same day. Includes installation guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need GVW on a pickup truck used for business?
Only if the truck has a registered gross weight over 4,500 kg (9,921 lbs). Most standard pickup trucks (F-150, Silverado 1500, Ram 1500) are under this threshold and don't require GVW display. Heavy-duty pickups (F-350, Silverado 3500) typically exceed 4,500 kg and require GVW decals.
Can I display GVW inside the windshield?
No. HTA s.109 requires GVW to be displayed on both sides (exterior) of the vehicle. Windshield placement is not compliant and will result in a violation during inspection.
What if my vehicle weight changes after adding equipment?
You must update your GVW decals to reflect the new registered gross weight. If you add a dump body, crane, or other equipment that increases the vehicle's GVW, update your registration with the Ministry and replace the decals.
Do trailers need GVW decals?
Yes, if the trailer is registered in Ontario and has a registered gross weight over 4,500 kg. Display the GVW on both sides of the trailer, typically on the front panel or side rails.
How long do GVW decals last?
Our premium vinyl decals are rated for 7+ years outdoors. They're UV-resistant, weatherproof, and won't fade or peel under normal conditions. Replace if damaged or if your vehicle weight changes.