GVW & Tare Weight Decals

GVW and Tare Weight decals are required identification markings for many commercial vehicles operating in Alberta and across Canada. These decals display important vehicle weight information that can be easily viewed during inspections and help ensure vehicles comply with provincial transportation regulations.

At Flave Print in Calgary, we produce durable GVW and Tare Weight decal sets using high-performance outdoor vinyl designed for long-term vehicle use. Our decals are weatherproof, highly visible, and easy to apply, making them ideal for trucks, service vehicles, fleet vehicles, trailers, and commercial equipment.

Each GVW and Tare decal order includes a set of two decals, allowing the required information to be displayed on both sides of the vehicle as commonly required for commercial vehicle identification.

Vehicle weights are displayed in kilograms (KG) as required for commercial vehicle registration in Canada.

Provinces and territories across Canada establish maximum allowable vehicle weights to help protect public safety and prevent damage to highway infrastructure. Commercial carriers must comply with these regulations based on factors such as the type of vehicle being operated, the number of axles, manufacturer weight ratings, tire size, and the vehicle’s registration classification.

In many cases, commercial vehicles weighing or registered for more than 4,500 kilograms must clearly display specific identification information on both sides of the vehicle. This information typically includes the vehicle owner’s name or registered logo, the vehicle’s Tare Weight, and the licensed Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW).

This information must be clearly visible and accurate, and commercial vehicles may not be operated on public highways unless the required information is properly displayed.

What Does Tare Weight Mean?

The Tare Weight of a vehicle refers to the weight of the vehicle when it is empty and not carrying any cargo or load. This represents the base operating weight of the vehicle itself before any materials, equipment, or passengers are added.

What Does GVW Mean?

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) refers to the maximum licensed weight a vehicle is legally permitted to operate at according to its vehicle registration. This includes the total weight of the vehicle, cargo, fuel, equipment, and passengers.

The GVW is listed on the vehicle’s certificate of registration and is used to determine the vehicle’s operating limits on public roadways.

Lettering Size Requirements

Commercial vehicle regulations typically require that lettering displayed on vehicles be clearly visible and legible. In Alberta, the lettering used for vehicle identification must be at least 50 millimeters (approximately 2 inches) tall and must contrast with the background surface of the vehicle so the information can be easily read during inspections.

Our standard GVW and Tare Weight decals are produced with 2-inch lettering height, meeting the typical minimum visibility requirements for commercial vehicles.

Reference: Commercial Vehicle Safety Regulation (AR 121/2009), Schedule 1, Section 9.

Durable Outdoor Vinyl Decals

Flave Print produces GVW and Tare decals using premium outdoor vinyl designed specifically for vehicle applications. These materials are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, road debris, vehicle washing, and daily use.

Our decals feature:

• Premium outdoor-rated vinyl

• Strong adhesive designed for vehicle surfaces

• Clean, professional die-cut lettering

• High-visibility fonts for clear readability

• Resistance to weather, pressure washing, and mild chemicals

Each decal set is pre-masked and ready to apply, making installation simple and efficient.

Customization Options

Our GVW and Tare decals can be customized to suit different vehicle types and fleet requirements.

Available options include:

• 3 size options include 12" x 5.5", 18" x 5.5", 24" x 5.5"

• Multiple vinyl colour choices

• Optional outline colour for added visibility

• Fleet quantity orders for multiple vehicles

If you require decals for multiple trucks or fleet vehicles, we can produce large quantities with consistent formatting and professional results. Send us an inquiry for a custom quote today!