Trailer Cargo Distribution Tips
If you are new to transporting cargo in your trailer, this guide should come in handy. Improper distribution of weight in your trailer can damage the cargo as well as your rig, which leads to frequent and costly repair shop visits. We have put together this guide highlighting the tips you can follow to evenly distribute the weight.
Know Your Towing Limits
Find out the limit of your tow vehicle and the trailer. It is unsafe and illegal to cross that limit while you are transporting cargo.
Find out the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your tow vehicle. This will tell you how much weight the tow vehicle can handle. If you are unsure of the weight of your empty trailer, bring it to a weigh station near you or a location with a certified scale.
While calculating the GVWR of your towing vehicle, remember to add the weight of the passengers (if any), the trailer weight, and the weight of the cargo.
Refer to Your Owner’s Manual
Refer to the manual for loading strategies that may be unique to your rig. It can also help you simplify the process and safely transport the cargo.
Use a Distribution Strategy That Matches Your Trailer Type
Typically, 60% of the cargo near the hitch (attached to the towing vehicle) and 40% to the rear end helps to evenly distribute the weight. This prevents your tires from unnecessarily wearing down and gives you better control of the rig, too.
Cargo Distribution in Open Trailers
Use tie-downs to secure every item in an open trailer or fear the risk of tossing them onto the road. Make note of the height of the trailer’s sides and avoid loading smaller items beyond that height. You will also want to protect your items from the elements.
Weight Distribution in Enclosed Trailers
In an enclosed trailer, your cargo remains safe from the elements and doesn’t get tossed onto the road during transit. However, secure all loose items so they won’t get thrown around, damaging themselves and other items, too.
Follow these tips to load your cargo like a pro. We want you to tow your trailer efficiently and safely, and cargo distribution will be a major factor affecting this. If you need more such tips for easy hauling or want to upgrade your trailer, visit Mountain West Trailers in Heber City, UT. Our wide inventory of trailers gives you plenty of choices. We also happily serve our friends in Salt Lake City and Provo.