Tire Load Capacity Calculator

Every tire has a maximum weight it can safely carry — the Tire Load Capacity Calculator tells you exactly how much load each of your tires must handle so you can choose tires rated for the job. Enter your vehicle's curb weight, number of passengers, average passenger weight, and cargo weight, then select your number of tires and adjust the safety margin. You'll get the total load required, load per tire, and the minimum load index your tires must meet — with optional front/rear axle distribution for more precise results.

lbs

Vehicle weight without passengers or cargo

lbs
lbs
10 %
0 %25 %

Reserve capacity for safety

Account for front/rear weight distribution

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Results

Total Load Required

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Load Per Tire

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Minimum Load Index Required

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Front Load Per Tire

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Rear Load Per Tire

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Results Table

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is tire load index and why is it important?

Tire load index is a numerical code that indicates the maximum weight a tire can safely carry when properly inflated. It's crucial for safety because exceeding the load capacity can lead to tire failure, poor handling, and increased wear.

How do I find my tire's load index?

The load index is printed on your tire's sidewall as part of the tire size code. It appears as a number after the tire size, before the speed rating letter. For example, in '225/60R16 98H', the load index is 98.

Can I use tires with a lower load index than recommended?

No, you should never downgrade to a lower load index than what's specified on your vehicle placard or original tires. Always match or exceed the recommended load index for safety and performance.

How does tire pressure affect load capacity?

Load capacity ratings assume tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Under-inflated tires cannot safely carry their rated load, while over-inflation can reduce tire contact patch and affect handling.

What safety margin should I use when calculating tire load capacity?

A 10-15% safety margin is typically recommended to account for dynamic loads, cornering forces, and unexpected weight additions. This provides a buffer for safe operation under various driving conditions.

Do front and rear tires need the same load rating?

Not necessarily. Weight distribution varies between front and rear axles, so you can size tires based on actual axle loads. However, many people choose to use the same load rating for all tires for simplicity.

How do I account for towing or carrying heavy cargo?

Add the weight of your trailer tongue weight or cargo to your calculations. For frequent heavy hauling, consider a higher safety margin and possibly upgrading to LT (Light Truck) tires with higher load ratings.