payload

n. paid cargo (on airplane); explosive material in missile head; destructive effect of a virus on computer files

That portion of a greater whole which is distinct from the packaging required to transport it. The payload is thus the part of an object which is intended to generate some form of gain - in the simplest case, payment.  Military payloads rarely produce direct fiscal remuneration; the gain anticipated is typically a strategic advantage or tactical victory.
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Noun
1. the front part of a guided missile or rocket or torpedo that carries the nuclear or explosive charge or the chemical or biological agents
(synonym) warhead, load
(hypernym) explosive
(hyponym) atomic warhead, nuclear warhead, thermonuclear warhead, nuke
(part-holonym) guided missile
2. goods carried by a large vehicle
(synonym) cargo, lading, freight, load, loading, shipment, consignment
(hypernym) merchandise, wares, product

In a set of data, such as a data field, block, or stream, being processed or transported, the part that represents user information and user overhead information, and may include user-requested additional information, such as network management and accounting information. Note: The payload does not include system overhead information for the processing or transportation system. Synonym mission bit stream.

Weight of commodity being hauled. Includes packaging, pallets, banding, etc., but does not include the truck, truck body, etc. (TII1) (TII2)

The maximum load that a unit of equipment may carry within its total rated capacity. The payload is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) less the tare weight or actual weight of the unloaded vehicle. (GSA2)