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1.1. STEPS FOR DETERMINING CORRECT LOAD LIMIT – TRAILER
Determining the load limits of a trailer includes more than understanding
the load limits of the tires alone. On all trailers there is a Federal certica-
tion/VIN label that is located on the forward half of the left (road) side of
the unit. This certication/VIN label will indicate the trailer’s Gross Vehi-
cle Weight Rating (GVWR). This is the most weight the fully loaded trailer
can weigh. It will also provide the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
This is the most a particular axle can weigh. If there are multiple axles,
the GAWR of each axle will be provided.
If your trailer has a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less, there is a vehicle
placard located in the same location as the certication label described
above. This placard provides tire and loading information. In addition,
this placard will show a statement regarding maximum cargo capacity.
Cargo can be added to the trailer, up to the maximum weight specied
on the placard. The combined weight of the cargo is provided as a single
number. In any case, remember: the total weight of a fully loaded trailer
can not exceed the stated GVWR.
For trailers with living quarters installed, the weight of water and propane
also need to be considered. The weight of fully lled propane contain-
ers is considered part of the weight of the trailer before it is loaded with
cargo, and is not considered part of the disposable cargo load. Water
however, is a disposable cargo weight and is treated as such. If there
is a fresh water storage tank of 100 gallons, this tank when lled would
weigh about 800 pounds. If more cargo is being transported, water can
be o-loaded to keep the total amount of cargo added to the vehicle
within the limits of the GVWR so as not to overload the vehicle. Under-
standing this exibility will allow you, the owner, to make choices that t
your travel needs.
When loading your cargo, be sure it is distributed evenly to prevent over-
loading front to back and side to side. Heavy items should be placed
low and as close to the axle positions as reasonable. Too many items on
one side may overload a tire. The best way to know the actual weight of
the vehicle is to weigh it at a public scale. Talk to your dealer to discuss
the weighing methods needed to capture the various weights related to
the trailer. This would include the weight empty or unloaded, weights per
axle, wheel, hitch or king-pin, and total weight.
Excessive loads and/or underination cause tire overloading and, as
a result, abnormal tire exing occurs. This situation can generate an
excessive amount of heat within the tire. Excessive heat may lead to tire
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