What Is Load Rating?

When buying replacement tyres, you may notice a number displayed alongside the tyre size and speed rating — for example: 225/45 R17 94W. While many drivers focus on brand or price, the number 94 is extremely important. This figure represents the tyre’s load rating, also known as the load index.

At Roadside Tyres 24hr Ltd, we provide professional mobile tyre services across Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, Cirencester, Coleford, and Tewkesbury. Because we operate fully equipped mobile fitting vans only, we regularly explain tyre specifications to customers at their homes or workplaces. Choosing the correct load rating is essential for both safety and legal compliance.

What Does Load Rating Mean?

The load rating of a tyre indicates the maximum weight that each tyre can safely support when properly inflated. This rating is determined through strict manufacturer testing standards.

The load index must always meet or exceed the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended specification. Using tyres with a lower load rating than required can lead to:

• Poor vehicle stability
• Accelerated tyre wear
• Overheating
• Increased risk of tyre failure
• Potential insurance invalidation

Where Can You Find the Load Index?

The load index is printed on the tyre sidewall just before the speed rating letter.

Example:
225/45 R17 94W

• 94 = Load Index
• W = Speed Rating

The load index number corresponds to a specific maximum weight capacity per tyre.

Load Index Weight Table

Load Index	Maximum Load (kg)
75	387 kg
80	450 kg
84	500 kg
88	560 kg
91	615 kg
94	670 kg
95	690 kg
96	710 kg
97	730 kg
98	750 kg
99	775 kg
100	800 kg
102	850 kg
104	900 kg
106	950 kg
109	1030 kg

For example, a tyre with a load index of 94 can carry a maximum of 670 kg per tyre. To estimate the total supported weight, multiply this figure by four tyres.

Why Load Rating Is So Important

Your vehicle’s total weight includes:

• The vehicle itself
• Passengers
• Fuel
• Luggage
• Additional cargo or equipment

If tyres are not rated correctly for this combined weight, especially during motorway driving, excessive heat can build up and increase the risk of blowouts.

For motorists travelling around Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, Cirencester, Coleford, and Tewkesbury — particularly with family or heavy loads — the correct load rating ensures safe handling, braking stability, and long-term tyre durability.

What If You Choose a Higher Load Rating?

Fitting tyres with a higher load rating than required is generally acceptable and may provide increased durability. However, the tyres must still match the correct size and speed rating specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

If you are unsure which load index your vehicle requires, our technicians will confirm the correct specification before installation.

Professional Advice — Delivered to Your Location

Because we operate exclusively as a mobile tyre fitting service, there is no need to visit a garage for expert advice. We bring professional tyre inspection and fitting directly to your home, workplace, or roadside location.

Our services include:

• Mobile Tyre Support
• 24hr Emergency Service
• Recovery & Towing Services
• Winter and Summer Tyre Swaps
• Supply and fitting of all major tyre brands

Whether you require a single tyre replacement or a full set, we ensure the correct load rating is supplied and fitted safely.

Need Help Choosing the Right Tyres?

📍 Covering: Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, Cirencester, Coleford & Tewkesbury
📞 Call: 07460 414293
📧 Email: roadside@mobiletyrefitting24hr.co.uk

Roadside Tyres 24hr Ltd — Professional mobile tyre fitting available 24 hours a day, keeping you safe and correctly fitted on every journey.