1213 1200.01
20
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 filled propane containers 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 filled would weigh about 800 pounds. If more cargo
is being transported, water can be off-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. Understanding this
flexibility will allow you, the owner, to make choices that fit your travel needs.
When loading your cargo, be sure it is distributed evenly to prevent overloading 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 underinflation cause tire overloading and, as a result, abnormal tire
flexing occurs. This situation can generate an excessive amount of heat within the tire. Excessive
heat may lead to tire failure. It is the air pressure that enables a tire to support the load, so proper
inflation is critical. The proper air pressure may be found on the certification/VIN label and/or on
the Tire Placard. This value should never exceed the maximum cold inflation pressure stamped
on the tire.
1.2.1. Trailers 10,000 Pounds GVWR or Less
Tire and Loading Information Placard
– Figure 1-1
1.
Locate the statement, “The weight of cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.,” on
your vehicle’s placard. See figure 1-1.
2.
This figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity.
3.
Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That
weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity.
The trailer’s placard refers to the Tire Information Placard attached adjacent to or near the
trailer’s VIN (Certification) label at the left front of the trailer.
1.2.2. Trailers Over 10,000 Pounds GVWR (Note: These trailers are not required to have
a tire information placard on the vehicle)
Determine the empty weight of your trailer by weighing the trailer using a public scale or other
means. This step does not have to be repeated.
Locate the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of the trailer on your trailer’s VIN
(Certification) label.
