#ToolboxTuesday - Cargo Weight Distribution
Ensuring cargo weight is appropriately distributed and secure helps workers to tow with confidence and prevent an unsafe situation from arising. Two major causes of improperly loaded trailers are
Exceeding the permissible weight limit for the trailer
Loading cargo unevenly, causing one side of the trailer to be overloaded
Improper trailer weight and material placement can result in the trailer swaying while towing, or worse, overturning.
Before you can determine if the cargo weight is distributed correctly, you need to know how much weight your trailer can pull. This means looking for your Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) located on the VIN label of your trailer. The GVWR is the most weight allowed for both your trailer and your cargo. You'll also need to know the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). This will be the maximum distributed weight that your vehicle's axle can support. The GAWR will typically include FR or RR, which indicates either the front or rear axles. You'll also need to know the weight of the fully assembled, empty trailer.
Next, you'll need to determine your payload capacity, which is the GVWR minus the trailer's weight, divided by 80%. The resulting number is your trailer's allowable payload. A general rule of thumb that 20-25% of your trailer's total weight plus its cargo should be on the trailer's tongue.
(GVWR — Trailer Weight) ➗ 80% = Allowable Payload
As you load your trailer, keep in mind that 60% of the cargo weight should be loaded in the front half of the trailer. Heavier items should be loaded in the front, with lighter, smaller items placed near the rear. Always make sure that cargo is packed closely and firmly, using tie-downs to secure the cargo and prevent it from shifting while you tow.
Key Points
Improper weight and loading can cause swaying or worse, overturning, while towing,.
The GVWR is the most weight allowed for both your trailer and your cargo.
The GAWR is the maximum distributed weight that your vehicle's axle can support.
Need to know the weight of the trailer fully assembled and empty.
60% of the cargo weight should be loaded in the front half of the trailer.
This video shows the benefits of proper weight distribution - Perfect for a toolbox meeting!
