What Is GVW and Why Must It Be Displayed?
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the maximum operating weight of a vehicle, including the vehicle itself, fuel, passengers, cargo, and any attached equipment. In Ontario, the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) requires that commercial motor vehicles display their registered gross weight or actual gross weight on the exterior of the vehicle.
This requirement serves two purposes: it helps enforcement officers quickly verify that a vehicle is not operating overweight, and it ensures that vehicles are properly registered for the weight class they are hauling. Failing to display GVW is a citable offence during MTO roadside inspections.
Who Needs to Display GVW in Ontario?
Under Ontario Regulation 424/97, the following vehicles must display their registered gross weight:
Commercial Motor Vehicles Over 4,500 kg
Any truck, bus, or commercial vehicle with a registered gross weight exceeding 4,500 kg must display GVW on both sides of the power unit.
CVOR-Registered Vehicles
All vehicles operating under a Commercial Vehicle Operator's Registration (CVOR) must display GVW alongside the CVOR number and registered owner name.
Tractor-Trailer Combinations
For tractor-trailer setups, the GVW displayed on the tractor must reflect the total registered gross weight of the combination.
Buses and School Buses
Buses operating commercially must display their GVW. School buses may have separate requirements under O.Reg 612.
GVW Display Specifications
Ontario Regulation 424/97 sets out the following requirements for how GVW must be displayed on commercial vehicles:
GVW Marking Specifications
Regulation Reference
Ontario Regulation 424/97 — Equipment, under the Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8
Common GVW Weight Classes
The weight displayed on your vehicle must match what is registered with the MTO. Here are the most common registered gross weight classes for Ontario commercial vehicles:
Typical Registered Weight Classes
Common GVW Display Mistakes
These are the most frequent GVW-related violations found during MTO roadside inspections:
- Displaying weight in pounds instead of kilograms
- GVW decal too small (under 50mm / 2" height)
- GVW displayed on only one side of the vehicle
- Weight does not match the registered gross weight on the permit
- Faded or peeling decals that are no longer legible
- Using magnetic signs instead of permanent decals
- Missing "GVW" or "Gross Vehicle Weight" label — just showing a number
GVW Rating Decals
From $24.99 CAD — Ships same day
Frequently Asked Questions
Does GVW need to be in pounds or kilograms in Ontario?
Ontario requires GVW to be displayed in kilograms (kg). Displaying weight in pounds only is non-compliant. Some operators display both, but kilograms is the legal requirement.
Can I use a magnetic GVW sign?
No. Ontario Regulation 424/97 requires permanent markings on commercial vehicles. Magnetic signs are not considered permanent and will result in a violation during inspection.
What happens if my GVW decal is faded or damaged?
If your GVW marking is no longer clearly legible, you can be cited during an MTO roadside inspection. Replace faded or damaged decals immediately. Our 7-year premium vinyl resists UV fading.
Do I need a separate GVW decal for my trailer?
The GVW displayed on the power unit (tractor) should reflect the total registered gross weight of the combination. Trailers may need separate markings depending on their registration class.
What if I change my registered weight class?
If you re-register your vehicle at a different gross weight, you must update the GVW decal immediately. Operating with an incorrect GVW display is a violation.
Order MTO-Compliant GVW Decals
Enter your registered gross weight and we produce regulation-compliant GVW decals in the correct format. Premium 7-year vinyl, contrasting colours, same-day production.
Configure Your GVW Decals