I think people should put their stuff on a scale and weigh it. If it's 1000 kilos, then fine, say a ton, if not, say something else. Suggestions?
I also hate it when you Americans say "a bunch of stuff"... but then we say things like "a geansai load" (pronounced "gan-zee", Irish for jumper, or sweater if you prefer) --- sometimes gets changed to a "ganjy" load, but then that should be something else altogether.