Towing Capacity and Payload Weight Defined
During the beginning stages of trailer shopping, it can be desirable to “just look around,” to determine the options and offerings without a sales associate present. Being armed with a little information to identify the facts communicated on the side of each trailer will make the help of sales staff much more helpful. Here are some things you might find useful.
Before determining the trailer needed, it is helpful to know the towing capacity and average payload weight.
- Towing Capacity. Before determining the payload capacity of a trailer, it is important to know the towing capacity of the vehicle(s) most likely to tow the trailer. A truck, van, or SUV manufacturer will have determined this measure, considering the vehicle’s drive train (engine and transmission capacity), axle size/strength, and hitch rating. Towing capacity can be found in the owner’s manual, the manufacturer’s website, or the dealership.
- Payload Weight. Determine the gross weight of the equipment and supplies for your typical cargo. This helps to determine the appropriate tow vehicle and trailer for the need.
Towing Capacity Sticker Information
New trailers will have two stickers, usually found on the exterior of the A-frame of the tongue; find the VIN sticker and the Payload Capacity sticker. On the VIN sticker, find:
- The manufacturer’s name and vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN indicates the model year of the trailer. The VIN for a trailer manufactured in 2018 starts with J, in 2019 with K, and in 2020 with L; extrapolate this information to determine the manufacture date for the trailer.
- The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is listed in kilograms and pounds. The GVWR represents the weight the trailer can weigh while on the road. Exceeding this weight can result in a fine based on the excess weight of the loaded trailer. The GVWR is the total of the empty weight of the trailer and the maximum payload weight the trailer should haul. If the empty weight of the trailer is 2500 lbs. and the GVWR is 7000 lbs., the maximum payload is 4500 lbs.
The GVWR is determined by each state to protect roads. In many states, drivers who haul trailers with a GVWR above 10,000 lbs. need a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Trailers with a GVWR above 3,000 lbs. require brakes.
- The VIN for dual axle trailers will also have a gross axle weight rating (GAWR). Dual axles distribute the weight of the payload over a broader foundation, reducing the pressure on the road surface. If the GAWR is listed as 6000 lbs., the rating indicates the trailer’s GVWR is 12,000 lbs. However, manufacturers often keep the GVWR below 10,000 lbs. to avoid the CDL requirement; if the GAWR is 6000/axle (12,000 lbs.), the GVWR might remain 9,990 lbs. Be aware—the GVWR is the legal weight limit of the trailer and cargo and fines for an overweight trailer will apply.
- Tire information will also appear on the VIN tag. The rim size and recommended tire pressure should be indicated: R stands for radial and D stands for bias-ply tires.
- A separate sticker, located near the VIN tag, will indicate the payload capacity of the trailer. This information will uncover whether the trailer meets your need, but . . . it needs to be coupled with the GVWR of the trailer. Subtracting the payload capacity from the GVWR reveals the empty weight of the trailer. The empty weight of the trailer and payload capacity cannot exceed the GVWR.
Used Trailer Towing Capacity Warnings
Trailers are the most stolen vehicles, so when considering the purchase of a used trailer, make sure all of the information is correct for the trailer.
- A used trailer needs the VIN tag, the same as new trailers.
- The VIN is also stamped on the trailer tongue. The number on the stamp and the VIN tag must match. Thieves and scammers often remove the tag and/or file the stamp away.
- Trailers will have a title, just like a car or truck. The VIN on the title must match the VIN on the stamp and tag.
- The name on the title needs to match the seller.
Shopping for a New Trailer? Let Trailer Wheel and Frame Help You Determine what Towing Capacity Meets Your Towing Needs.
Trailer Wheel and Frame has one of the largest inventories of trailers and trailer accessories in the industry. Call us today at 281-931-7777 and let our trailer experts assist.
