How to Properly Load Your Trailer
When preparing for your next trip, you want to make sure that your trailer is properly and safely loaded. You don’t want to be on the highway and have your motorcycle come unhooked or have your plants ruined from a tiny bump on the road. Not only do you risk your materials from getting damaged, but you also risk losing control and causing a wreck. We want to help you prevent any accidents from occurring, which is why we put together tips on the best way to load your trailer.
Knowing Your trailer
Before you start loading your trailer, there are some terms to help you know how much weight your trailer can hold. The first term you need to know is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
- GVWR is found on your trailer’s VIN label and signifies the maximum combined weight allowed for both your cargo and trailer.
Another term you need to know is the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
- GAWR is the maximum weight the axle of your vehicle can support. The GAWR will include the weight limit for both the front and rear axles.
Additionally, you should also know the total weight of your fully assembled trailer, as well as the payload capacity.
- PAYLOAD CAPACITY is your trailer’s total weight capacity. Payload capacity is calculated by subtracting your trailer’s weight from its GVWR and multiplying it by 80%.
Keep in mind that the distribution of weight will differ depending on the type of trailer you own. Trailer categories include enclosed cargo, golf cart, motorcycle, boat, and so on.
Distribution of Weight
Now that you know how much load your trailer can carry, it’s time to load it properly. You should always start by loading it heavier in the front and let it fall lighter in the back. The heaviest cargo should be centered left-to-right and be tied down to prevent any shifting. Top-heavy items need to be loaded first and secured tightly at multiple angles. By securing these items first, you avoid any damage from occurring should you quickly change direction or brake suddenly.
Ultimately, your trailer’s axle should be holding the most weight, not the ball hitch. If you were to put too much weight on the front, it would increase your trailer’s ball weight. Too much ball weight could result in compromised braking ability, steering problems, and towing instability. Additionally, try to keep the weight distribution even on both sides of the trailer.
Driving with a Loaded Trailer
Keeping yourself, your passengers, and your valuables safe is about more than properly loading your trailer. It is also about driving as safely and efficiently as possible. When you’re towing items, you should always drive under your average driving speed - never exceed more than 55 miles per hour. Take extra precautions such as leaving more distance and time between you and other vehicles on the road. A good measure is to allow 4-5 seconds between you and the vehicles in front of you to maximize safety.
On the off chance that you find your car swaying, do not brake or speed up. Instead, gently take your foot off the gas pedal to gradually achieve a slower, safer speed. When going downhill or making wide turns, be sure to go slower to avoid any accidents. In any case, when hauling a trailer, slower is better.
Packing and loading up your trailer with precious cargo is not as easy as one might think. Tropic Trailer is here for you with all the assistance and parts you need before venturing out on your journey! We cover the ins-and-outs so you can rest easy knowing you, your passengers, and your belongings are safe when you hit the road. You’re not only preventing yourself from future accidents or stress, but you’re helping everyone else on the road be safe as well.
Once you have your trailer loading and hauling strategy set in place, everything else becomes second nature. If you need anything before you head out or load up, be sure to stop by and see us at Tropic Trailer South (9451 Workmen Way Fort Myers, FL 33905), Tropic Trailer North (2163 Post Oak Lane Marianna, FL 32448), or contact us remotely to request the parts you need online. With Tropic Trailer’s guidance, soon enough, you’ll be the expert helping other people load up their trailers!