Well, y'know, I really don't worry about all those numbers.
When I had a '94 Dodge 3500 dually, I registered it for 14,000 GVW. I simply didn't think I could ever exceed that, and I didn't. However, I eventually DID get around to weighing the rig, and discovered that it was 3,180 lbs. OVER the truck GCWR. Nothing bent, nothing broke, nobody was injured or killed, and the truck handled the Continental Divide, Snoqualmie Pass, and Donner Pass with no trouble.
When I register my "new" '01 Dodge 1500 QC short box, I will pay for 8000 GVW. Actually, I don't have much choice, since the GVWR is 6600 lbs. So, 8000 it will be!
The truck will be LEGAL, IMO that's what is most important!
EDIT: If you want to get even more confused, look up the axle manufacturer's specifications. You will probably find that the axle manufacturer says the axle can carry much more than the truck manufacturer says it can. Yep, the TRUCK is the limiting factor, NOT the axle!
