What is included in Gross Vehicle Weight

I think kaydeejay probably solved the discrepancy question. the idea that cargo weight does not include a driver and max towing weight takes into account a driver sets a double standard leading to confusion. 150 lbs in mot a major factor on a truck with a 10,000 lb towing capacity but a major factor on a 1/2 ton truck with a 1500 cargo capacity. 10% of cargo capacity automatically off the top. The truck is going no where with out a driver and there are probably a small percentage under 150 lbs. Interestingly it sounds like door stickers are individually calculated based on the build sheet of a particular vehicle taking into account all factory installed options. So in theory a vehicle with out a tow package would have more cargo capacity than one with a towing package. The larger battery,radiator, alternator, hitch, etc would increase curb weight and lessen the difference between the Gross weight and Curb weight. i agree with the adage always bring more truck than you need but knowing when you have more than you need shouldn't always be measured by bring a F550 to tow your lawn mower.