A Beginner's Guide To Trailer Cargo Distribution
Maximizing your hauling efficiency while remaining safe is all about figuring out the best way to distribute weight throughout your trailer. Silver Moon Trailers knows that this is much easier said than done, however. You can’t be expected to know the optimal way to load your trailer without help. That is why we have put together this information to provide guidance to new trailer owners and refresher experienced hands-on things they may have forgotten.
Know Your Towing Limits
All tow vehicles and trailers have a set limit on how much weight they can handle, and it is important that you know that no amount of distribution strategies will change the fact that exceeding these limits is dangerous and illegal. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) tells you how much weight your tow vehicle and your trailer can handle. Be careful not to make the common mistake of forgetting to include the weight of your passengers or the weight of the trailer itself when comparing the cargo weight to your tow vehicle’s GVWR. If you do not know how much your trailer weighs empty, find a certified scale at a truck stop or other location.
Check Your Owner’s Manual
As always, your owner’s manual is a valuable source of knowledge and may hold information about loading strategies unique to your tow vehicle or trailer or other tips to make the process easier.
Cargo Distribution Strategies
When possible, try to have about 60% of the cargo’s weight placed in the front half of the trailer closer to the tow vehicle. You should also try to keep weight distribution even from right to left. This will put equal pressure on the tires, giving you more control when you tow. Cargo should be packed together closely and securely to prevent it from shifting around during transit.
Cargo Distribution In Enclosed Trailers
If you are using an enclosed trailer, you won't need to worry about items flying off the trailer and onto the road. While it is still important that you secure loose items to avoid damage, you can feel free to load lighter items near the top.
Cargo Distribution In Open Trailers
On the other hand, if you are using an open trailer, you need to take steps to secure your cargo. Small items should not be loaded above the height of the trailer’s sides, and everything should be well-tied down to keep it in place.
Cargo Distribution With A Vehicle
Loading a vehicle like a motorcycle or ATV requires a few special steps. First, you should tighten the vehicle evenly with the shocks compressed about halfway and use ratchet straps to secure the suspension. Next, secure the vehicle with D-ring tie-downs so that it can’t shift forward. Finally, double-check everything by tugging and shaking your vehicle from different angles
Check Your Cargo Distribution
Before you hit the road, do one last check to make sure you have followed all of the rules. Make sure the weight is distributed evenly from left to right, with 60% in the trailer’s front. Make sure everything is strapped in securely.
We here at Silver Moon Trailers wish you luck in all your future hauling endeavors. To view our selection of new and pre-owned trailers, visit Silver Moon Trailers at our dealership in Jonesboro, Arkansas. We also have parts, financing, and servicing departments, so visit us no matter your trailer-related needs. We are proud to serve northeastern Arkansas, and we welcome guests from nearby communities like Newport, Arkansas, and Memphis, Tennessee.