Expertly reviewed by Garret “The Sage” Miller, Lead TTRPG Balance Consultant & D&D Mechanics Specialist.
Master your inventory management with our precision D&D Carrying Capacity Calculator. Whether you’re a Goliath barbarian or a Halfling rogue, determine exactly how much loot you can haul across the Forgotten Realms using official 5th Edition rules.
D&D Carrying Capacity Calculator
Total Carrying Capacity
0 lbs
D&D Carrying Capacity Calculator Formula:
Capacity = STR × 15 × Size Multiplier
Push/Drag/Lift = Capacity × 2
Variables:
- Strength Score: Your character’s raw physical power attribute.
- Size Category: Your character’s physical dimensions (affects multipliers).
- Powerful Build: A trait (Goliaths, Firbolgs, etc.) that treats you as one size larger for capacity.
What is D&D Carrying Capacity?
In Dungeons & Dragons 5e, Carrying Capacity determines the weight (in pounds) that your character can carry without being hindered. Exceeding this limit results in being encumbered, which significantly reduces your speed and capability in combat.
Beyond simple carrying, characters can push, drag, or lift weights up to twice their normal carrying capacity. However, while doing so, your speed drops to 5 feet if the weight exceeds your base capacity.
How to Calculate D&D Carrying Capacity (Example):
- Note your character’s Strength Score (e.g., 16).
- Identify your Size Multiplier (Medium = 1).
- Multiply Strength (16) by 15. Total = 240 lbs.
- If you have Powerful Build, double that number (240 x 2 = 480 lbs).
Related Calculators:
- D&D 5e Point Buy Calculator
- D&D Jump Distance Calculator
- D&D Movement Speed Calculator
- D&D XP Threshold Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
How much can a character with 20 Strength carry? A Medium creature can carry 300 lbs (20 x 15).
What is the penalty for being encumbered? Under variant rules, carrying more than 5x your Strength score reduces speed by 10 feet.
Does a mount increase carrying capacity? Yes, animals like horses use the same formula but often have higher Strength and “Large” size multipliers (x2).
Does the “Enhance Ability” spell help? Yes, the Bull’s Strength effect doubles your carrying capacity for the duration.