How Many Pounds Can the Trunk Hold?
3 Answers
The load capacity of a car trunk does not have a clear standard. Generally, as long as the total weight of the loaded items plus the car does not exceed the gross vehicle weight, it is acceptable. However, it is advisable not to exceed 300 pounds. If the trunk is overloaded, both fuel consumption and driving safety cannot be guaranteed. Additionally, attention should be paid to the nature of the items stored in the trunk. Below are some precautions for trunk usage: 1. Proper Use: Owners should use the trunk reasonably and avoid placing too many items to prevent adding unnecessary burden to the car and creating potential safety hazards. It is also not recommended to store heavy items in the trunk for extended periods, as this increases the car's load and fuel consumption. 2. Prohibited Items: Do not place hazardous items such as lighters in the trunk during summer, as high temperatures and bumps can easily lead to explosions. 3. Essential Items: Always keep emergency supplies in the trunk, such as tow ropes, common medications, band-aids, and other necessities, to prepare for unexpected situations.
Speaking of how many kilograms the trunk can hold, as a family man who frequently drives kids to school and goes shopping, I have first-hand experience. My sedan's trunk capacity isn't particularly large—the manufacturer states a maximum limit around 200kg, equivalent to just over 400 jin. However, I usually carry no more than 50kg of items, like rice and flour from supermarkets or large snack boxes. Anything heavier makes the rear end sag noticeably, affecting driving stability. The key lies in weight distribution: a fully packed but evenly loaded trunk is manageable, but excessive weight on one side strains the suspension and accelerates tire wear. Always consult your vehicle manual's load index—don't cut corners by overloading. Overburdening extends braking distance and increases fuel consumption. Once during a move, overloading nearly caused an accident, teaching me to plan space wisely and make multiple trips when necessary.
From a vehicle engineering perspective, trunk load capacity is not a fixed number—it's determined by suspension type, chassis structure, and tire pressure tolerance. Based on my experience, compact cars like the Honda Fit typically handle 150-250kg (300-500 jin), while SUVs or off-road vehicles can bear over 300kg thanks to their more robust suspensions. However, don't focus solely on weight limits—consider practical factors. Fragile trunk components like floor panels may crack, and overloading accelerates part wear, compromising driving safety. Regularly check tire pressure and suspension condition. When hauling heavy items, use boxes to distribute weight for easier estimation. For the most reliable assessment, test the trunk's load limit when empty.
